Political Science

Political Science explores how societies make collective decisions through politics and governance. It encompasses several subfields, including American politics (focusing on U.S. institutions and practices), comparative politics (examining foreign governments), international relations (studying issues like war, international organizations, and foreign policy), political theory (investigating the foundations of legitimate political authority), political behavior (analyzing why people vote and engage in political actions), and public policy (exploring decision-making processes and the effects of government actions).

The goal of the Political Science major is to offer students a comprehensive introduction to all key areas of the discipline, along with deeper knowledge in one or two of these subfields. Students not only engage with foundational texts and research but also develop skills in research methods and gain exposure to current political studies. The program also offers internship opportunities in locations like Long Island, Albany, and Washington, where students can apply their learning in real-world settings.

Graduates of the Political Science program receive a solid liberal arts education that serves as a strong foundation for careers in journalism, business, public administration, social services, education, and law. Many Political Science majors who pursue law school gain admission to top-tier programs and go on to work in law firms, businesses, or government. Additionally, some students continue their academic journey in graduate school, eventually becoming university professors or political researchers.