Saint Michael's College

What you'll study

The Political Science and Government programme provides a broad grounding in political behaviour, institutions, comparative politics, international relations, political theory, and public policy. Students take core courses that develop skills in political analysis, research methods, and argumentation, alongside elective options that allow specialisation.

• Core subjects: Introduction to American Government, Comparative Politics, International Relations, Political Theory, Research Methods in Political Science.
• Typical modules and topics: Constitutional law and civil liberties, public policy analysis, campaign politics and elections, legislative process, ethics in public life, political economy, human rights, environmental politics, and regional politics (e.g. Latin America, Europe, Asia).
• Quantitative and qualitative skills: Courses in statistics for social sciences, survey research, qualitative interview techniques, and data analysis to prepare students for empirical work.
• Capstone and experiential learning: Many students complete a senior seminar or capstone research project. The programme emphasises internships, community-engaged learning, and opportunities to work with local government, NGOs, and campus advocacy groups.
• Electives and cross-disciplinary options: Students often combine political science with economics, history, sociology, environmental studies, or international studies to tailor their degree toward public policy, diplomacy, or law preparation.

Entry requirements

Admission to the Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Government follows the general undergraduate entry standards of Saint Michael's College. Applicants are expected to have a secondary school diploma or equivalent and competitive academic records.

• Academic preparation: Strong performance in social studies, history, civics, and writing is advantageous. Colleges typically consider overall grades, course rigor, and teacher recommendations.
• Standardised tests and alternatives: Saint Michael's practices a holistic admissions review; check the college's admissions guidance for whether standardised test scores are required or optional.
• Supporting materials: A personal statement or essay demonstrating interest in public affairs, leadership, or community engagement is helpful. Extracurricular involvement, community service, internships, or citizenship activities strengthen an application.
• Transfer applicants: Transfer students should provide college transcripts and a record of relevant coursework; faculty advisors will evaluate transfer credits toward major requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates with a BA in Political Science and Government pursue a range of careers in the public, private and non-profit sectors or continue to graduate and professional study. The degree builds skills in critical thinking, research, writing and public speaking that are valued across many fields.

• Public sector and policy: Roles in local, state or federal government, legislative staff, public administration, policy analysis, and public affairs.
• Law and advocacy: Many graduates go on to law school or work with legal aid organisations, civil rights groups, lobbying firms, and advocacy organisations.
• International and non-profit work: Opportunities with international NGOs, development organisations, human rights groups, and diplomacy-related careers.
• Media, communications and campaigns: Careers in journalism, political consulting, campaign management, public relations, and civic engagement organisations.
• Further study and research: Preparation for graduate degrees in political science, public policy, international relations, public administration, and related disciplines.

Why study at Saint Michael's College

Saint Michael's College offers a small liberal arts environment with close faculty-student interaction, which supports mentored research, internship placement, and personalised advising. The college's commitment to community engagement provides practical experiences in local government and non-profit work, while the curriculum balances theoretical foundations with applied skills.

• Small class sizes: Seminars and upper-level courses are typically small, allowing direct mentorship and active discussion.
• Experiential learning: Strong emphasis on internships, field work and community partnerships in the Lake Champlain region and beyond, helping students connect classroom learning to real-world practice.
• Advising and career support: Faculty advisors and the career services office assist with internship placements, graduate school preparation, and job search strategies relevant to politics and public service.
• Interdisciplinary opportunities: Easy collaboration with other departments and study-abroad programmes to broaden perspectives on global political issues.