Majors / Political Science

Political Science (B.A., B.S.)

Indiana State University

Description:

The University offers a bachelor of arts (B.A.) and a bachelor of science (B.S.) in political science.

The political science major is ideal for students interested in careers in public affairs, government, politics, community service, or journalism.

The major is designed to give students a solid foundation across the breadth of the discipline. The American politics and world politics core courses ensure a deeper foundation in the institutions and processes of politics in the U.S. and the world. Students who would like greater depth in one of these two areas may use electives in the major to create a concentration in either American politics or world politics.

The Department of Political Science provides students with a rewarding academic experience in and out of the classroom.

  • As freshmen, students have the opportunity to be part of a student-centered learning community for political science and legal studies students. Throughout their college careers, students attend small- to medium-sized classes taught by full-time, award-winning faculty members.
  • As undergraduates, students have opportunities for faculty-directed research, both during the academic year and in the summer, on diverse subjects from public law and American politics to international affairs. Students also participate in faculty-organized field studies throughout the year.
  • Opportunities to apply coursework and develop careers include an aggressive internship program with local, state, national, and international placements, some of which are eligible for support funds from the University.
  • Service-learning opportunities also are available through internships with public service organizations and the private sector. Co-curricular opportunities to enrich the academic experience include field study in Washington, D.C.; study abroad; on-campus events; community engagement; and service learning integrated into the academic curriculum.
  • Pi Sigma Alpha, the national political science honor society, has a chapter at Indiana State. It is the only honor society for graduate and upper-level undergraduate students of political science and government in the United States.
  • Students have the opportunity to become involved in community situations through programs like the Hull House (Chicago, Illinois) service learning trip, organized volunteer efforts at local community centers, and many community engagement opportunities integrated into the curriculum.

Required Courses:

[ list all ]

Careers:

Political science graduates are well-trained academically and experientially for productive careers in state, local, and federal government; business; law; consulting; journalism; communication; international organizations; international business and government; finance; polling; campaign management; public and community service; and non-governmental organizations.

In addition, graduates are prepared for graduate or professional studies in political science, public administration, international affairs, and law.

Accreditation:

The University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

Financial Aid & Scholarships

Students have many sources of financial support for their studies, including financial aid, work-study programs, veterans' benefits, and special scholarships for entering freshmen and transfer students.

In addition, the Department of Political Science offers several scholarships and awards, including the Johnson Memorial Scholarship, the Gilfoy Memorial Scholarship, the Harader Memorial Scholarship, the Dowell Memorial Award, and the James L. McDowell Memorial Award. For more information about these awards, contact the department.

Further Information

Department of Political Science
Indiana State University
812-237-2430
www.indstate.edu/polisci


Last updated: September 26, 2012



The Catalog of Indiana State University is the document of authority for all students. The requirements given in the catalog supersede information issued by any academic department, program, college, or school. The University reserves the right to change the requirements at any time.

Apply Now

Change Your Major

Related Links

Funding Your Education

For information on academic programs (including advisement), students should contact their academic advisor or visit the academic department or college in which the major is housed:

ROTC Programs

For assistance with admission, campus tours, credit transfer, financial aid, housing options, registration, scholarships, and veterans benefits, students should contact:

Office of Admissions
Indiana State University
318 North 6th St. (Welcome Center)
Terre Haute, Indiana 47809

1-800-GO-TO-ISU
www.indstate.edu/admissions
admissions@indstate.edu