Dartmouth University

What you'll study

This programme combines core disciplinary training with flexible options for thematic specialisation. You will study foundational subfields including political theory, American politics, comparative politics, international relations and public policy, alongside training in research methods and statistics. Typical modules and course topics include:

• American Government and Institutions — Congress, the presidency, judicial behaviour, federalism and state and local politics.
• Comparative Politics — political development, party systems, electoral behaviour and case studies of regions such as Europe, Latin America, Africa and Asia.
• International Relations — security studies, international political economy, diplomacy and international organisations.
• Political Theory — classical and contemporary normative theory, democratic theory, justice and rights.
• Research Methods and Quantitative Analysis — statistics for social science, causal inference, survey methods and experimental design.
• Public Policy and Administration — policy analysis, program evaluation and the politics of policy-making.
• Capstone and Independent Research — many students complete a substantial senior thesis or supervised research project under faculty supervision.

Coursework typically mixes large introductory lectures with smaller seminars and advanced electives. Students are encouraged to take interdisciplinary electives in economics, history, environmental studies, and statistics, and to participate in research centres, internships and study abroad.

Entry requirements

Admissions to the programme are competitive. Applicants are expected to present a strong secondary-school academic record with emphasis on rigorous courses across the humanities, social sciences and quantitative subjects. Typical application materials include academic transcripts, a personal statement, and letters of recommendation; many applicants also submit examples of written work demonstrating analytical and argumentative ability.

For international applicants, proof of English language proficiency may be required. There are no universally fixed course prerequisites beyond a preparedness for university-level reading, writing and quantitative work, but prior study in history or social studies is beneficial. Successful candidates demonstrate intellectual curiosity, clear written communication, and engagement in civic or extracurricular activities.

Career prospects

Graduates with a degree in Political Science and Government pursue varied careers across the public, private and non-profit sectors. Common pathways include:

• Public service and government — policy analyst, legislative aide, public administrator, campaign staff and local government roles.
• Law and legal professions — many graduates go on to law school and careers as attorneys, judges' clerks or legal analysts.
• International affairs and diplomacy — positions in foreign service, international organisations and NGOs.
• Research and academia — analyst roles in think tanks, research institutes, or progression to postgraduate study (MA, PhD) in political science or related fields.
• Private sector and consulting — public affairs, political risk analysis, management consulting and corporate public policy.
• Media and communications — journalism, communications strategy, and advocacy roles for civil society organisations.

The programme’s emphasis on research methods, writing and critical thinking equips graduates for roles that require analysis, persuasion and project management. Internship and research centre connections often help students gain practical experience and professional networks.

Why study at Dartmouth University

Studying government at Dartmouth offers close access to faculty as part of a predominantly undergraduate institution, with opportunities for one-on-one mentorship and meaningful research collaboration. The college’s distinctive academic calendar and advising structure support flexible study plans, internships and term-long off-campus experiences.

Students benefit from active policy and international affairs centres, practicum and internship pathways, and a department that emphasises both theoretical foundations and empirical skills. Small seminars, senior projects and a culture of undergraduate research make the programme particularly suitable for students who want intensive academic training alongside real-world policy engagement.