Political science is the study of governments—their origins, growth, evolution, and decline. The program covers the structure of political systems as well as how political decisions are made and how social conflicts are resolved.

For those students interested in the study of public law, the department offers an option in legal studies. While the option is not intended to be a pre-law program, it can benefit students who plan to attend law school.

The department has an active internship program through which students earn academic credit and gain experience.