Case Western Reserve University

What you'll study

The programme combines core coursework in comparative and American politics, political theory and international relations with social science methods and topical electives. Typical required courses include Introduction to American Government, Comparative Politics, International Relations, Political Theory, Research Methods in Political Science, and Statistics for the Social Sciences. Beyond core classes students choose from electives such as Constitutional Law, Public Policy Analysis, Elections and Campaigns, Urban Politics, Race and Politics, Political Economy, Security Studies, and Ethics and Politics.

Programme structure is flexible: students complete a sequence in political methodology, a set of disciplinary core courses, and a selection of advanced electives. Many students pursue a minor or double major in related areas such as economics, history, sociology, philosophy, or modern languages. Upper-year options typically include a senior capstone, directed research or a supervised practicum that places students with public agencies, advocacy organisations or local government offices. Independent research and senior honours thesis supervision are available for students in the honours track.

Entry requirements

Admission to Case Western Reserve University is competitive and is based on a holistic review of secondary education performance, academic preparation and extracurricular engagement. Typical academic preparation for the Political Science major includes coursework in social studies, history, English and mathematics. Students are expected to demonstrate strong reading and writing skills and an ability to engage with quantitative material.

• General requirement: an accredited secondary school diploma or equivalent for first‑year applicants; transfer applicants require college-level transcripts and typically a minimum college GPA.
• Curriculum recommendations: coursework in U.S. history/government, world history or geography, mathematics (to prepare for statistics), and strong preparation in English composition.
• International applicants: secondary credentials equivalent to U.S. high school completion; proof of English proficiency where required (e.g., TOEFL/IELTS or comparable evidence) unless exempt.
• Other materials: standard application supporting documents such as academic transcripts, personal statement, and teacher or counsellor recommendations; standardised tests may be optional in certain admission cycles—consult the university’s admissions guidance.

Career prospects

Graduates with a degree in Political Science and Government enter a wide range of public, private and nonprofit roles. Common career paths include public service (local, state, federal government), policy analysis and research, campaign management and electoral politics, public affairs and advocacy, journalism and communications, and roles in international organisations and non‑governmental organisations.

The analytical, research and writing skills developed in the programme are also excellent preparation for graduate study in law, public policy, international relations and related fields, as well as for careers in business, consulting and data analysis. Many students gain practical experience via internships with government offices, think tanks, legal clinics, media outlets and community organisations, which frequently lead to employment or further study.

Why study at Case Western Reserve University

Case Western Reserve combines a strong liberal arts foundation with opportunities for interdisciplinary study across social sciences, business and engineering. The Department of Political Science offers faculty expertise spanning American politics, comparative politics, political theory, international relations and quantitative methods, enabling students to tailor programmes to their interests.

Located in Cleveland, the university provides convenient access to municipal, county and state institutions, courts and a range of civic organisations for internships and experiential learning. Small class sizes promote close faculty mentorship, and students benefit from research centres, public lecture series, and collaborations with other departments and professional schools on campus. These features make Case Western Reserve a practical choice for students seeking both rigorous academic training and tangible career preparation in politics and government.