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Political Science Major

What is a Major in Political Science?

We study how governments and political systems interact to distribute wealth and power across a global society. The theoretical and historical foundations, cultural characteristics, and economic dimensions of both domestic and international politics are considered. The courses provide strong preparation for careers in government, business, law, politics, and education.

Why Study Political Science at Virginia Tech?

Our strong network with local, state, and federal governments will provide you with the opportunity to put your knowledge to work. Our advisors help with course selection, degree requirements, internships, career planning, and applications for graduate and law school. We offer options in legal studies, national security, and political theory.

 
12
Credits for Internships Including Hokies on the Hill

 
4
Degree Options

 
10th
"Return on Investment" Ranking Among U.S. Schools

Careers and Further Study

What Can You Do with a Political Science Major?

Jobs Held by Our Graduates

  • Research and policy analyst
  • Military officer
  • Attorney
  • Teacher and Professor
  • Intelligence Analyst
  • Political Correspondent
  • Consultant
  • Campaign Staffer
  • Lobbyist
  • Civil Servant
  • Diplomat

Beyond the Classroom

Experiential Learning

Get Experience

Our students often get internships with the U.S. Congress, state legislatures, political campaigns, international organizations, and national, state, or local administrative agencies. We also offer programs such as the Washington Semester and Hokies on the Hill to help you prepare for a career in public service.

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Collaborate

Our faculty members are productive authors, legal scholars, and award-winning teachers who are always eager to mentor students on research projects in their field of interest. If you have an undergraduate research project in mind that you’d like to pursue, just ask.

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Law School Preparation

Join the pre-law advising program to gain a wealth of information from our faculty and staff. They will guide you through decisions, academic preparation, and the application process. We also offer a legal studies option you can add to your degree.

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ROTC

We work with many students in the Virginia Tech Corps of Cadets and ROTC, as well as veterans and students waiting to begin an armed forces training program. Our political science major also has an option in national security for training to advance your career in public service and the military.

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Travel and Learn

Although studying abroad isn't required, it can often be a pivotal experience for you. Living in a different country is the best way to understand the differences and similarities between cultures. It allows you to develop personal expertise in a specific national or regional context or language.

PSCI Study Abroad

Bachelor of Arts in Political Science Degree

Political Science Major Requirements

  • Introduction to Political Science and International Studies
  • U.S. Government and Politics
  • Comparative Government and Politics
  • Political Theory
  • Research Methods in Political Science
  • World Politics or Global Economy and World Politics

Minor and Elective Hours

Our program gives you the opportunity to build knowledge in another area by pursuing a minor, double major, or cognate.


120 hrs
B.A. Political Science

45 hrs
General Education

54 hrs
Major Requirements

30 hrs
Elective


 

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