University of Mount Union

What you'll study

The programme combines core political science theory with applied coursework and research methods. You will study how governments function, how public policy is formed, and how political behaviour is measured and analysed. Typical topics and modules include:

• Introduction to American Government: structure and functions of federal, state and local institutions, federalism and civil rights.
• Comparative Politics: political systems, regime types, and methods for cross-national comparison.
• International Relations: theories of international politics, foreign policy analysis and contemporary global issues.
• Political Theory: classical and modern political thought, justice, rights and democratic theory.
• Public Policy and Administration: policy analysis, budgeting, implementation and evaluation at multiple levels of government.
• Research Methods and Statistics for Political Science: quantitative and qualitative techniques, survey design, data analysis using common statistical tools.
• Constitutional Law and Civil Liberties: judicial review, rights, and the role of courts in political life.
• Capstone/Senior Seminar: integrative research project or seminar that requires independent research and sustained analysis.
• Experiential learning components: internships with government offices, non-profits or campaigns, and opportunities for community-engaged projects or study away.

Electives allow specialisation in areas such as public policy, campaign politics, legal studies, environmental and health policy, or international affairs. Students are encouraged to complete an internship and pursue opportunities for undergraduate research under faculty supervision.

Entry requirements

Admissions follow University of Mount Union undergraduate entry practices. Applicants should hold a high school diploma (or equivalent) and submit official transcripts. Typical requirements include a competitive academic record and evidence of college preparatory coursework in English and social studies. Standardised test submission (SAT/ACT) may be optional; check the university's admissions guidance for current policy.

Additional application components can include a personal statement and at least one letter of recommendation. Transfer applicants should provide college transcripts and may receive credit for prior coursework. Mature applicants and those with significant workplace experience are considered on an individual basis.

Career prospects

Graduates with a political science degree from Mount Union pursue careers across public, private and non-profit sectors or continue to graduate and professional schools. Common career paths include:

• Government and public administration (local, state, federal roles)
• Law (many students enter law school or work in legal support and research roles)
• Public policy and public affairs (policy analysis, advocacy, think tanks)
• Campaigns and electoral work (campaign management, communications, voter outreach)
• Non-profit and international organisations (program management, development, advocacy)
• Media and journalism (political reporting, analysis, communications)
• Business and consulting (government relations, compliance, research)

Graduates benefit from the programme's emphasis on analytical writing, research methods and internships—skills valued by employers and graduate programmes.

Why study at University of Mount Union

Mount Union offers a small-campus liberal arts environment with close faculty-student mentoring and class sizes that support discussion-based learning. The political science curriculum is grounded in both theoretical foundations and practical experiences, with advising that supports pre-law preparation and career planning. Internships with local government and community organisations, opportunities for undergraduate research, and a campus culture that encourages civic engagement help students apply classroom learning to real-world contexts.

Faculty in the department bring a mix of disciplinary expertise and teaching focus, and the university’s career services and alumni network assist students in securing internships and first professional roles. The programme is suited to students who value personalised instruction and hands-on experiences in the study of politics and government.