University of Arizona

What you'll study

The programme provides a broad grounding across the main subfields of political science: American politics, comparative politics, international relations, political theory and public policy. Core coursework typically covers the structure and functions of government, constitutional law, political behaviour, institutions, and the policy-making process. Students also take research methods and quantitative courses (statistics for social sciences, research design, data analysis) to build skills in information gathering, interpretation and evidence-based argument.

Beyond the core, students choose from elective modules such as campaigns and elections, state and local government, public administration, foreign policy, human rights, political economy, race and politics, environmental politics, and immigration and border politics — reflecting the University of Arizona’s strengths in Southwest and border issues. Many programmes offer a senior capstone or honours thesis option that requires independent research under faculty supervision.

The degree is delivered alongside the university’s general education curriculum, so students combine major requirements with a liberal arts breadth across humanities, social sciences and quantitative reasoning. Opportunities for experiential learning include internships with government offices and NGOs, participation in faculty research projects, student government, and study abroad programmes.

Entry requirements

Admissions are based on a standard undergraduate application to the University of Arizona. Typical expectations include a secondary-school credential (or equivalent) with a competitive academic record and a transcript showing strength in humanities and social sciences; colleges may also look for evidence of quantitative competence. Applicants may be asked for personal statements and academic references as part of the application.

Standardised test submission policies vary; consult the University of Arizona admissions pages for current guidance. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests or approved alternatives unless exempt. Transfer students are considered and usually need to present college transcripts showing successful completion of general education or introductory political science courses.

Career prospects

Graduates in political science and government pursue a wide range of careers in public, private and non-profit sectors. Common entry roles include legislative or policy assistant, research analyst, community outreach coordinator, campaign staffer, public affairs or communications associate, and administrative positions in local or state government. Many alumni progress into law school, public administration or graduate research programmes (political science, public policy, international relations).

Other career paths include work with international organisations, advocacy groups, think tanks, journalism, consulting, and corporate government relations. The programme’s emphasis on research methods, writing and data skills supports roles that require policy analysis, program evaluation, polling and public opinion research. Internships, campus career services and alumni networks at the University of Arizona help students transition into relevant positions.

Why study at University of Arizona

The University of Arizona offers access to a diverse set of faculty experts and research centres that focus on public policy, border and migration studies, Indigenous governance and environmental politics, enabling students to pursue regionally relevant as well as global topics. Located in Tucson with connections across Arizona and the U.S.-Mexico border region, the university provides distinctive internship and field-research opportunities.

Students benefit from a large public research university environment with multidisciplinary collaboration, practical training in research methods and statistics, and pathways to study abroad and Washington internships. Small seminars and senior research options let students work closely with faculty, while career services and alumni links support job placement, graduate study and professional development.