Political Science

Purdue University in West Lafayette

Are you interested in American politics or international affairs? Critical issues such as health, the environment, or civil rights? Theories concerning the ideal government and how power and resources are allocated in society?

Political Science is the study of governments, public policies, and political behavior. Political Science uses both humanistic and scientific perspectives and skills to examine the United States, all countries and regions of the world. As a political science major, students hone writing, communication, and analytical skills that are critical to a liberal arts education. Students select one area of specialization from five sub-fields: American political systems, processes, and behavior; comparative political systems, processes, and behavior; international relations; political theory and methodology; and public policy and public administration. Political science prepares students for participating in community organizations, electoral politics, movements on behalf of specific policies, seeking elective or appointive positions in government, and many more positions that involve using critical thinking, writing, and analytical skills.

All liberal arts majors prepare students with the skills identified as contributing to managerial success:  communicating and listening well, possessing insights into others, creative/critical thinking, problem solving, and the ability to make connections across complex ideas.

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