University of San Diego

What you'll study

The Political Science and Government degree combines core coursework in American government, comparative politics, international relations and political theory with research methods, quantitative techniques and applied electives. Students typically follow a progression from introductory survey courses to advanced seminars and a senior capstone experience.

• Core topics: American politics and institutions, constitutional law, public policy, political theory, comparative politics and international relations.
• Research and methods: Political research methods, statistics for social sciences, data analysis and public opinion research.
• Skills and practicum: Policy analysis, legislative process, campaign politics, negotiation and conflict resolution, and communication for public audiences.
• Electives and concentrations: Options often include immigration and border policy, human rights, environmental policy, global security, and Latin American politics, reflecting the university's regional strengths.
• Experiential learning: Internship placements with government agencies, NGOs, campaigns and think tanks; community-engaged projects; and opportunities for research with faculty.
• Capstone: Senior seminars, research projects or a thesis that synthesise coursework and independent research under faculty supervision.
• Study abroad: Semester and short-term programmes that enable comparative study of political systems and international policy issues.

Entry requirements

Admission to the undergraduate Political Science programme follows the university's general undergraduate admission process. Successful applicants normally present a completed secondary school qualification or recognised equivalent, a record of academic achievement and evidence of strong preparation in social studies and writing.

• Academic record: Competitive high-school grades and a college preparatory curriculum that includes history, government, social sciences and college-level English.
• Application materials: Personal statement or essays, official transcripts and any required school reports. Letters of recommendation may strengthen an application.
• Standardised tests: The university's current testing policy should be checked; applicants may submit SAT or ACT scores if they wish, but these are considered alongside the full application.
• International applicants: Recognised secondary credentials, academic transcripts and demonstrated English proficiency through accepted tests or university-approved alternatives.
• Transfer students: Evaluation of college-level coursework and transfer credit; a minimum number of residence credits at the university is required to award the degree.

Career prospects

Graduates with a BA in Political Science and Government pursue a wide range of careers that draw on analytical, communication and policy skills. Many use the degree as preparation for graduate or professional study.

• Public sector careers in local, state and federal government, legislative offices and public administration.
• Roles in policy analysis, research institutes, think tanks and advocacy organisations.
• International and diplomatic work with intergovernmental organisations, NGOs and humanitarian agencies.
• Legal careers or progression to law school; common paths include public interest law, government counsel and legal policy work.
• Political campaigning, civic engagement, communications, media and journalism.
• Private-sector positions in corporate public affairs, consulting and market research.
• Further study in public policy, international relations, law, business or related social sciences.

Why study at University of San Diego

The University of San Diego offers a liberal arts environment with small class sizes and close faculty mentoring, allowing students to pursue in-depth research and receive personalised advising. Its location in a major border city provides distinctive learning opportunities related to immigration, international trade, security and U.S.–Mexico relations.

• Experiential opportunities: Robust internship networks with local government, non-profits, and the region's civic organisations, plus connections to national internship programmes.
• Interdisciplinary resources: Access to related programmes and centres, including peace and conflict studies, international relations and the School of Law, that enrich course options and career preparation.
• Global perspective: Study abroad programmes and internationally focused coursework that prepare students for work in global and transnational settings.
• Values and engagement: A campus culture that emphasises ethical leadership, social justice and community service in line with the university's mission.