Colorado State University

What you'll study

The Political Science and Government degree combines foundational courses in political theory, comparative politics, international relations, American politics, public policy and research methods with opportunities for electives and applied learning. Early coursework focuses on core concepts and analytical tools: political thought, institutions and behaviour, statistics for social science, and introductory research methods. As you progress you will choose from advanced modules such as:

• American Government and Constitutional Law
• Comparative Politics and Democratization
• International Relations and Security Studies
• Public Policy Analysis and Program Evaluation
• Political Theory and Ethics
• Quantitative Methods, Survey Research and Data Analysis
• Environmental Politics and Public Administration (interdisciplinary options)

Most students complete a senior capstone or research project that integrates course learning; options typically include a seminar-based capstone, practicum with a public agency, or an honours thesis for students pursuing a research track. Electives and minors allow students to pair politics with economics, environmental studies, communication, statistics or regional studies.

Programme structure

The programme is built around general education requirements plus a sequence of lower-division and upper-division political science courses. Lower-division courses introduce concepts and methods, while upper-division work emphasises specialised topics and independent research. Students are encouraged to take internships, field placements and study-abroad semesters to gain practical experience and comparative perspective.

Entry requirements

Admission to Colorado State University’s undergraduate programmes normally requires a completed secondary education credential equivalent to a high school diploma and a competitive academic record. Typical applicants present a strong mix of humanities and social-science coursework—such as history, government, economics and English—and are advised to have quantitative preparation sufficient for introductory statistics. Transfer applicants must submit college transcripts and meet residency rules for upper-division credit.

International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through accepted examinations or alternative evidence of language ability. Specific GPA expectations, portfolio materials or prerequisite courses may vary; prospective students should consult CSU Admissions and the Department of Political Science for precise requirements and any programme-specific advising.

Career prospects

Graduates with a political science degree pursue a broad range of careers. Common paths include:

• Public sector roles: policy analyst, legislative staff, city or state administration
• Law and legal services: preparation for law school, paralegal and compliance roles
• Non-governmental organisations and advocacy: programme coordination, research and outreach
• International organisations and diplomacy: foreign service, international development
• Campaigns, political consulting and communications: campaign management, public affairs
• Private sector roles: public policy departments, government relations, corporate social responsibility, market research
• Further study: master’s or doctoral programmes in political science, public policy, international relations or law

Internships, practicum placements and undergraduate research provided through CSU’s networks help students build experience and employer connections in Colorado, the region and beyond.

Why study at Colorado State University

Colorado State University offers a political science programme with access to engaged faculty, research opportunities and experiential learning in a state with active local and regional government institutions. The university’s location in Fort Collins provides proximity to Colorado’s policy community and to metropolitan centres where internships and public-service roles are available. Students benefit from interdisciplinary collaboration across departments such as economics, environmental studies and communication, as well as advising and career services that support placements in government, non-profits and the private sector.

CSU emphasises hands-on learning—students can participate in internship programmes, community-based research, and study-abroad options to broaden comparative perspectives. Small upper-division seminars and opportunities for independent study allow for close mentorship with faculty and preparation for professional careers or graduate study.