Seattle University

What you'll study

The Political Science and Government major builds foundational knowledge of American politics, comparative politics, international relations and political theory, combined with quantitative and qualitative research skills. Students take a mix of core courses, thematic electives and experiential learning components to develop analytical, written and oral communication abilities.

• Core courses: introductions to American government, comparative politics, international relations and political theory.
• Methods and skills: research methods in political science, statistics for social sciences, and courses in political analysis or public opinion.
• Policy and applied topics: public policy, urban politics, environmental politics, human rights, and courses addressing politics and social justice.
• Electives and concentrations: options allow focus on areas such as political economy, campaigns and elections, law and courts, or regional specialisations (e.g., Asia, Europe, Latin America).
• Capstone/experiential learning: senior seminar or capstone project, internships with local government, NGOs, or policy organisations, and opportunities for undergraduate research.
• Supplementary study: language study, statistics or economics courses, and recommended cross-disciplinary electives in sociology, history or communications.

Entry requirements

Admission to Seattle University follows the institution's undergraduate entry policies. Applicants are expected to have a high-school diploma (or equivalent) with a solid academic record and coursework in social studies, history and English. Successful candidates typically demonstrate strengths in critical reading, writing and mathematics.

• Completed high-school curriculum with emphasis on humanities and social sciences.
• Evidence of strong written work — personal statement or essays that explain interest in politics and civic engagement.
• Letters of recommendation are encouraged where available; prior experience in student government, debate, community service or civic organisations is helpful but not required.
• Transfer applicants should provide college transcripts; credits in introductory political science, statistics or related areas may be evaluated for advanced standing.
• International applicants must meet English proficiency requirements and provide credential documentation consistent with university policy.

Career prospects

Graduates with a degree in Political Science and Government move into a wide range of careers where analytical, research and communication skills are valued. The programme prepares students both for immediate employment and for further professional or graduate study.

• Public sector: local, state and federal government roles, policy analysis, legislative staff, campaign work, and public administration.
• Non-profit and advocacy: programme coordination, community organising, policy advocacy and research for NGOs and foundations.
• Law and public interest: many graduates pursue law school or careers in legal support, public defence, or human rights organisations.
• Private sector and media: risk analysis, consulting, corporate public affairs, journalism and communications.
• Further study: master’s programmes in public policy, international relations, social sciences or related fields, as well as professional degrees.

Why study at Seattle University

Seattle University combines a liberal-arts foundation with a Jesuit commitment to social justice and ethical leadership, which informs the political science curriculum and campus life. The university’s location in a major Pacific Northwest city gives students access to public agencies, advocacy organisations, think tanks and a vibrant civic community for internships and applied learning.

• Experiential learning: strong emphasis on internships, community-engaged learning and a senior capstone that connects coursework to real-world policy challenges.
• Faculty mentorship: small class sizes and faculty who focus on research, teaching and student advising across political science subfields.
• Local opportunities: proximity to municipal and regional government offices, nonprofits, and international tech and business organisations enables practical experience and networking.
• Cross-disciplinary options: easy access to courses in law, business, environmental studies and communications to tailor career-ready skills.
• Global perspectives: study-abroad programmes and regional specialisations that support comparative and international study.