University of Michigan

What you'll study

The programme offers broad training across the major subfields of political science: American politics, comparative politics, international relations, political theory, and public policy and administration. Core work typically covers political institutions and behaviour, research design, and quantitative and qualitative methods for analysing political data. Students choose from required introductory courses and a range of intermediate and advanced electives, and many go on to complete a senior capstone or an honours research project.

• Foundations: introductory courses in political institutions, political theory, and comparative and international politics.
• Methods and analysis: coursework in research design, statistics for social scientists, survey methods and data analysis.
• Subfield electives: topics such as constitutional law, public opinion, campaign politics, European and Asian politics, international security, human rights, and political economy.
• Policy and practice: classes in public policy formation, urban politics, administrative law and programme evaluation; opportunities for policy labs and practicum courses.
• Capstone and research: senior seminars, thesis options or independent research projects supervised by faculty.
• Experiential learning: internships, community-engaged research, student organisations (e.g. Model United Nations, debate teams), study abroad and Washington/industry immersion programmes.

Entry requirements

Admission to the University of Michigan is competitive and based on the overall strength of an applicant’s academic record and extracurricular profile. Typical preparation for a political science major includes strong performance in high-school social studies, history and English, and demonstrated quantitative aptitude.

• Secondary-school completion or equivalent with a rigorous curriculum; strong grades in humanities and social sciences are expected.
• Recommended preparation: courses in history, government, economics, and mathematics; AP/IB courses where available can strengthen an application.
• Standardised testing policies may be test-optional; applicants should consult current University guidance. International applicants must meet equivalent national qualifications and demonstrate English proficiency through recognised tests or institutional alternatives.
• Personal essays, letters of recommendation and extracurricular activities that show sustained interest in public affairs, leadership or research strengthen an application.

Career prospects

Graduates with a degree in political science from the University of Michigan move into a wide range of careers. The degree provides strong preparation for employment and further study because it develops analytical reasoning, quantitative skills, writing and argumentation.

• Public sector: government agencies, legislative offices, civil service and diplomacy.
• Policy and advocacy: think tanks, non-governmental organisations, advocacy groups and policy analysis roles.
• Law and public interest: many graduates proceed to law school or work in legal support, criminal justice and public defence.
• Media and communications: journalism, public relations, political consulting and campaign management.
• Business and research: market research, corporate public affairs, management consulting and data analysis roles.
• Academia and graduate study: advanced degrees in political science, public policy, international relations or related disciplines.

Why study at University of Michigan

The University of Michigan offers a large, research-intensive environment with access to faculty who publish across the full range of political science fields and to interdisciplinary centres and institutes focused on public policy, international affairs and democracy studies. Students benefit from a broad liberal-arts curriculum, plentiful elective choices, and structured opportunities for research and internships.

• Proximity to major urban areas and state government creates internship and practicum placements in public service and community organisations.
• Connections with professional schools and research centres (including public policy and international studies units) enable interdisciplinary study and joint opportunities.
• Extensive alumni and employer networks, career services, and undergraduate research programmes support transitions into work or graduate study.
• Active student organisations, speaker series, and visiting-lecturer programmes provide practical experience and engagement with current political debates.