Political Science
About
Political science is the study of governments, public policies and political behavior in the United States and all countries and regions of the world. Our political science major offers a strong undergraduate education in the liberal arts tradition. You'll develop skills in critical thinking, active learning and leadership. Discover a strong community of students discussing, collaborating and leading the charge for the next generation of civic and political leaders.
Why Political Science is in Demand:
- Political decisions impact everyone on a local, state, national and international level.
- Practiced written and verbal skills, strong interpersonal communication, consensus building and leadership are valued assets in any career.
- There’s a need for productive citizens and effective leaders to improve communities across the country and around the world.
- Political science majors are excellently prepared candidates for law school, as well as other graduate and professional studies.
Is it for me?
- Do you enjoy taking the lead in groups?
- Do you like to debate issues?
- Are you someone who questions the status quo and wants to make things better?
Five Reasons to Choose Scranton for Political Science
Political science is the right choice if you are looking to engage in your community to make it a better place to live for everyone.
Jean Wahl Harris, Ph.D.
Professor
Preparing You For Personal & Professional Successplus or minus
You'll learn how to:
- Think clearly, logically and critically.
- Craft strong arguments grounded in research.
- Strengthen professional written and verbal skills.
- Take the lead in teams and debates.
- Build consensus.
- Network and establish strong connections.
Internships
We strongly encourage political science majors to take advantage of the dozens of internship opportunities located within walking distance of campus. Political science majors have held internships with Lackawanna Pro Bono, Senators Robert P. Casey and Pat Toomey, as well as numerous other political campaigns and government agencies. Our program facilitates a variety of internship opportunities and academic seminars for professional growth and development. Our dedicated faculty and staff help you identify your long-term career aspirations and recommend internship placements accordingly. You’ll even earn credit toward your degree.
- PS 280 - Pre-Law Internship
- PS 480 - Political Science Internship I
- PS 481 - Political Science Internship II
Center for Ethics and Excellence in Public Service
The Center’s mission is to “advocate for and promote the common good of all through programs that support the development of ethical and competent public officials and of civically knowledgeable, responsible, and engaged community members.” Importantly, programming and research created and shared by the Center will offer new and meaningful opportunities for students who wish to pursue a career in public service or are interested in findings ways to pursue justice and contribute positively to their communities. Below, we list some of the opportunities that the Center will offer to students:
- Internships focused on ethics and public service on campus and in the community
- Networking events with state and local government officials in Northeastern Pennsylvania (NEPA)
- Research activities focused on ethics and best practices in public service, with real-life applications in NEPA
- Opportunities to be a part of ‘swing state’ politics in one of the central focal points of federal races, where presidential, House, and Senate candidates visit and focus their attention
- Training programs that will prepare students for an ethical and effective career in public service
- Opportunities to be an active part of improving the lives of NEPA residents
We are excited to partner with our students, local and state public officials, the University’s Office of Community Engagement and Government Affairs, and NEPA communities to offer education and resources to foster good governance and create a more knowledgeable and engaged citizenry.
The Political Science Department is wonderful because it offers so many different classes that covers all different types of politics. The professors that teach these classes are well versed in politics and prepare their students for a professional career in the future by helping them succeed in their classes.
-Grace Seechock, Class of 2022
What You'll Learnplus or minus
Curriculum
Take courses like Comparative Politics, International Relations and Research Methods in political science for a well-rounded education. Choose a focused course of study with our Public Administration and Affairs track option, or create your own experience with independent studies. Develop a project of your choosing as a student in our honors program. You’ll have an array of choices and opportunities as a political science major at The University of Scranton.
Click here to see the curriculum and learn more.
Pursue Your Passion and Make a Differenceplus or minus
Political science majors frequently serve as class president, vice-president and senator on The University of Scranton campus. You’ll have the chance to follow in their footsteps. By pursuing your passion and developing your confidence as a political science major, you’ll prepare to take the lead on campus, in the classroom, in your community and throughout your career.
Careers
Where will Political Science Take Me?
A degree in political science will open doors for you to pursue graduate studies or to begin your career. In a world of global politics, embracing diverse perspectives is key. Many of our students spend a semester abroad, studying politics, law or government in a foreign country. Learn more about the study abroad programs offered at Scranton to see where political science can take you! Several of our recent graduates have also been awarded prestigious Fulbright grants – are you next?
Graduate and Law Schools:
Political science majors go on to pursue graduates degrees and advanced study of topics, including: public administration, international relations and law.
You’ll find our recent graduates continuing their education at:
- American University
- Baruch College
- Boston University
- Brooklyn Law School
- Delaware Law School
- Duquesne University School of Law
- Georgetown University
- George Washington University
- Hofstra University School of Law
- Pace University School of Law
- Penn State University
- Seton Hall University
- St. Louis University
- Temple University
- The University of Scranton
- University of Maryland School of Law
- University of Miami School of Law
- Villanova University
Employment Opportunities:
Whether you want to be an attorney, civil servant, journalist, marketing professional, professor or something else entirely – a degree in political science will prepare you to take the lead in any path you choose.
Here are some of the positions our alumni hold:
- District representative at the U.S. House of Representatives for Rita Lowey (D-New York, 17th)
- Communications director for U.S. Senator Robert P. Casey, Jr.
- Caseworker and field representative for U.S. Congressman Tom Reed [NY-23]
- Immigration lawyer
- Assistant public defender in Scranton
- Deputy Attorney General for New Jersey
- Senior program development officer at Catholic Relief Services
- Director of the Unaccompanied Children Program, Center on Immigration and Justice, at the VERA Institute of Justice
- President and CEO at Friends of the Poor
- Project manager, JPMorgan Chase
- Military intelligence officer for the United States Army
- Credentials analyst at The Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates
- Senior vice president for property management at Paramount Group, Inc.
- Director of legal studies and associate professor of political science at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst
- English teaching assistant on a Fulbright Scholarship to Spain
- Director of Community and Government Relations at Pace University
The writing and critical thinking skills that I learned over the course of my time at the University of Scranton prepared me for my career. The ability to clearly articulate a thought has set me apart from many of my colleagues and as an applicant for various jobs.
Donald Castellucci III, Class of 2014
Chief of Staff, Tech Talent Project
How Scranton Gives You a Competitive Edge
Students come to Scranton from a spectrum of diverse viewpoints. As a result, we make sure the classroom is a comfortable place to express and defend your views. You’ll learn how to make sound arguments and support your positions while appreciating the perspectives of others.
Take the Next Step
Get the Facts
For More Information
Office of Admissions
The Estate
Scranton, PA 18510
1-888-SCRANTON or (570) 941-7540
570-941-7572
admissions@scranton.edu
Political Science Department
Michael Allison, Ph.D.
Chair, Department of Political Science
(570) 941-4392
michael.allison@scranton.edu