University of Tennessee

What you'll study

The programme builds a broad foundation in core areas of political science while allowing you to specialise through concentrations and elective choices. Typical first-year topics introduce political theory, American government and comparative politics, alongside foundational coursework in research methods and academic writing.

• Core themes: American politics and institutions, comparative politics, international relations, political theory, public policy and political behaviour.
• Research and methods: courses in qualitative and quantitative research methods, statistics for social sciences, experimental design and data analysis to prepare you for independent research and policy evaluation.
• Law and institutions: constitutional law, judicial politics, state and local government, and the legislative process.
• Policy and practice: public administration, public policy analysis, campaign strategy and interest group politics.
• Capstone and experiential learning: senior capstone seminars, independent research projects, internship credits and opportunities to engage with the Howard H. Baker Jr. Center for Public Policy and other campus institutes.

Students can typically choose between a BA and a BS pathway, select a concentration (for example American Politics, Comparative/International Politics, Public Policy, or Research Methods), and complement their major with a minor or elective coursework in related areas such as economics, sociology, history or statistics.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have successfully completed a secondary-school programme with a strong academic record. Typical preparation includes coursework in social studies/history, English, and a numeracy-focused subject such as mathematics or statistics. The department values demonstrated reading, writing and analytical ability.

• Domestic applicants: successful completion of high school with competitive grades; standardised test scores may be considered where submitted, but the university has flexible policies regarding tests—check the current university admissions guidance.
• International applicants: an equivalent secondary-school qualification, official transcripts and demonstrated English language proficiency through an approved test or pathway.
• Supporting materials: transcripts, a personal statement or application essay outlining interest in political science, and any supplementary materials such as a résumé or evidence of extracurricular leadership or civic engagement.
• Transfer students: official college transcripts and a record of completed college-level coursework; some credits in social sciences, statistics or writing are useful for progression.

Specific minimum thresholds and additional requirements (for example English-language score minima or prerequisite units) are set by the university admissions office; applicants should consult the official admissions pages for the most current criteria.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a wide range of public- and private-sector roles. Political science provides skills in critical thinking, research, writing and quantitative analysis that are attractive to many employers.

• Public sector and government: policy analyst, legislative aide, public affairs officer, local government administrator or roles in state and federal agencies.
• Law and advocacy: many graduates go on to law school or work for non-governmental organisations, advocacy groups and civil-rights organisations.
• International and diplomatic careers: positions with international organisations, foreign service, or NGOs focused on development, human rights or international affairs.
• Private sector and media: roles in political consulting, public relations, corporate government relations, and journalism or communications.
• Further study and research: master's and doctoral programmes in political science, public policy, public administration or related disciplines.

Why study at University of Tennessee

The University of Tennessee offers a politically engaged environment with access to faculty who undertake applied research in governance and public policy. Proximity to state government and established partnerships enables internship and practicum opportunities that connect classroom learning with real-world public affairs.

• Practical experience: connections with the Howard H. Baker Jr. Center for Public Policy and other campus research centres provide avenues for internships, policy labs and event participation.
• Student life and organisations: active student societies—including student government, debate clubs, Model UN and the political science honour society—help develop leadership and networking skills.
• Research and teaching: faculty expertise across American politics, international relations, public policy and quantitative methods supports both classroom learning and supervised research projects.
• Preparation for next steps: the programme’s combination of substantive knowledge and practical skills is designed to prepare students for professional roles, graduate study and civic engagement.

Prospective students should review the university’s official programme pages and speak with admissions or the political science department for guidance on course selection, concentrations and opportunities for applied experience.