Indiana University Bloomington

What you'll study

The programme combines substantive coursework across the major subfields of political science with rigorous training in research design and quantitative methods. Core areas typically include American politics, comparative politics, international relations, political theory and public policy, alongside courses in statistics and econometrics for social science.

• Core methods and research design: courses in statistics, regression analysis, causal inference, and research design to prepare students for empirical research.
• American politics: institutional behaviour, Congress and presidency, political behaviour and public opinion.
• Comparative politics: regime types, comparative political institutions, political development and comparative public policy.
• International relations: foreign policy analysis, international security, international political economy and global governance.
• Political theory: normative theory, contemporary political philosophy and readings in classical texts.
• Electives and seminars: topical seminars that allow deeper specialisation—such as race and politics, political economy, environmental politics, or gender and politics.
• Research project or thesis: students typically complete a substantial research paper or thesis supervised by faculty; some programmes also offer a comprehensive exam option.

Entry requirements

Applicants should normally hold an undergraduate degree with a strong academic record in political science or a related discipline. Typical application materials include:

• Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.
• A statement of purpose that outlines academic interests and career goals.
• Two or three academic or professional letters of recommendation.
• A current curriculum vitae or résumé.
• A writing sample that demonstrates analytic and writing ability (often an undergraduate dissertation chapter, seminar paper or policy memo).
• Proof of English language proficiency for applicants whose first language is not English (accepted tests and minimum scores vary).

Some applicants may also submit GRE scores where available or requested; prospective students should consult the department for up-to-date guidance on standardised testing and any prerequisites in quantitative methods.

Career prospects

Graduates from this programme move into a range of professional paths. Common destinations include:

• Public sector roles at federal, state and local government agencies and legislative bodies.
• Policy analysis and advisory positions in think tanks and advocacy organisations.
• Research and analytic roles in polling organisations, non-governmental organisations and international institutions.
• Consulting, communications and public affairs positions in the private sector.
• Further academic study at the PhD level in political science, public policy or related social sciences.

The programme’s emphasis on empirical methods and applied research equips graduates with skills valued in data-driven policy and research environments.

Why study at Indiana University Bloomington

Indiana University Bloomington’s Department of Political Science is embedded within a large, research-active university and offers access to a broad range of faculty expertise across American, comparative and international politics. Students benefit from strong methodological training, opportunities to work with faculty on research projects, and links to interdisciplinary centres and schools on campus.

• Faculty and research: faculty members publish in leading journals and supervise graduate research across many specialisms.
• Training and resources: dedicated method courses, computing and data resources, and seminars that support empirical and theoretical work.
• Career development: connections to internship opportunities, a professional development programme, and alumni networks that help graduates transition into policy, research and doctoral pathways.
• Campus environment: the Bloomington campus provides a collegiate setting with access to libraries, research centres and student organisations that enrich academic and professional life.

Prospective students should consult the Department of Political Science for specific programme formats, supervision arrangements and guidance on tailoring the degree to their career objectives.