Santa Clara University

What you'll study

The programme provides a broad foundation in political thought, institutions and behaviour, together with training in empirical research methods. Core areas typically include American politics, comparative politics, international relations, political theory, public law and public policy. Methodological training emphasises political research methods, statistics for social sciences and qualitative approaches to case study and discourse analysis.

Students take a mix of required courses and electives, allowing concentration in areas such as:

• American government and constitutional law
• Comparative politics and regional studies
• International relations and security studies
• Public policy, budgeting and administration
• Political theory and ethics
• Research methods and data analysis

The degree typically culminates in senior‑level seminars or a capstone project where students apply theory and methods to original research or policy analysis. Practical learning is emphasised through internships, community‑based projects, and opportunities to work with faculty on research. Many students also pursue study abroad or specialised programmes that deepen regional or thematic expertise.

Entry requirements

Admission to Santa Clara University is selective and based on a holistic review of each applicant. Successful applicants typically demonstrate a strong academic record in a college‑preparatory curriculum, engagement in extracurricular activities and clear interest in civic or public affairs. Typical documentation includes a secondary school transcript and letters of recommendation.

For students presenting international credentials, competitive levels in national examination systems (for example A‑levels, the International Baccalaureate or equivalent) are expected. Santa Clara considers standardised test scores in context; many applicants submit SAT or ACT results but test submission policies can vary, so applicants should check current campus guidance.

Applicants with substantial extracurricular experience—such as volunteering, student government, political campaigns, policy clubs or internships—will find those activities strengthen an application. Transfer applicants should have completed introductory coursework and demonstrate readiness for upper‑division study in the social sciences.

Career prospects

Graduates with a BA in Political Science and Government pursue a wide range of careers in the public, private and non‑profit sectors. Common pathways include:

• Government and public administration at municipal, state and federal levels
• Public policy analysis, legislative assistance and advocacy work for NGOs and think tanks
• Law school and legal careers, using the degree as preparation for legal studies
• Campaign management, political consulting and communications roles
• International organisations, diplomacy and global development
• Corporate public affairs, regulatory affairs and compliance—particularly relevant given the university's Silicon Valley location
• Journalism, research and higher education

The programme’s emphasis on research methods, writing and internship experience helps graduates transition directly into entry‑level policy roles, graduate study or professional programmes.

Why study at Santa Clara University

Santa Clara is a Jesuit university with a strong commitment to ethics, social justice and service, which informs the political science curriculum and civic engagement opportunities. The university’s location in Silicon Valley provides unique access to policy makers, tech companies, advocacy groups and local governments, creating rich internship and networking possibilities.

As an undergraduate‑centred institution, Santa Clara offers small class sizes, close faculty mentoring and opportunities to collaborate on research projects. The political science faculty combine scholarly expertise with practical policy experience, and students benefit from centres and programmes that connect academic study to community engagement and entrepreneurship.

Students also benefit from a range of co‑curricular resources—career services, pre‑law advising, study‑abroad programmes and alumni networks—that support professional development and postgraduate pathways.