University of Massachusetts Amherst

What you'll study

The programme combines core classes in political institutions and theory with methodological training and electives that allow you to specialise. Core subject areas typically include:

• American Politics: courses on the U.S. Constitution, Congress, the presidency, federalism, state and local government and public opinion.
• Comparative Politics: study of political systems, parties, electoral systems and development across countries and regions.
• International Relations: international security, diplomacy, global governance and international political economy.
• Political Theory: classical and contemporary political thought, justice, rights and democratic theory.
• Research Methods and Quantitative Analysis: courses in research design, statistics for the social sciences, data analysis and practicum work preparing you to conduct empirical research.
• Public Policy and Administration: policy analysis, implementation and evaluation, plus specialised electives such as environmental, health or education policy.
• Capstone or Advanced Seminars: senior seminars, honours thesis options or project-based courses that integrate theory and empirical work.

Students choose from a range of electives to build thematic concentrations (for example: public policy, international affairs, comparative democracies) and have opportunities to take interdisciplinary courses from related departments. There are options for independent study, research assistantships with faculty, internships with government or non-profit organisations, and study abroad to deepen practical experience.

Entry requirements

Admission to the undergraduate programme follows the university's general undergraduate admissions policies. Typical requirements include a recognised secondary school diploma or equivalent, academic transcripts showing strong performance in social studies and other core subjects, and a completed application.

• High school coursework: emphasis on social sciences, English and mathematics is recommended.
• Academic achievement: a competitive secondary school record or, for transfer applicants, college coursework with a solid GPA are expected.
• Supporting materials: a personal statement or essays, and recommendation letters may be required by the admissions office.
• International applicants: proof of equivalent secondary credentials and evidence of English proficiency (where applicable) such as recognised English tests or other university-accepted credentials.

Standardised test policies can vary; check the university's admissions guidance for current test-flexibility or optional-testing arrangements. Prospective students with specific questions about course prerequisites, transfer credit or honours admission should consult the Political Science department and undergraduate advising.

Career prospects

Graduates with a degree in Political Science and Government pursue a wide range of careers in the public, private and non-profit sectors, and many go on to further study. Common career pathways include:

• Public service and civil service positions at local, state and federal levels.
• Policy analysis, programme evaluation and roles in think tanks and research organisations.
• Law: many graduates progress to law school or legal careers after completing prerequisite preparation.
• International organisations, diplomacy and development agencies.
• Campaigns, political consulting, advocacy and public affairs.
• Journalism, communications, and media roles focused on political reporting or public communication.
• Private sector roles in government relations, compliance, and corporate policy.
• Graduate study in political science, public policy, international relations or related social sciences.

The degree emphasises analytical thinking, research and communication skills that employers across sectors value. Internship programmes and campus career services help connect students with placements and employer networks.

Why study at University of Massachusetts Amherst

UMass Amherst offers a large, research-active Political Science department with faculty covering a broad range of subfields and methodological approaches. Students benefit from small advanced seminars alongside larger introductory courses, opportunities to work as research assistants, and access to campus research centres and interdisciplinary programmes.

• Location and access: the campus is within reach of major policy hubs and regional government and non-profit organisations, creating internship and practicum opportunities.
• Experiential learning: regular internship placements, student-led organisations such as Model UN and debate clubs, and community engagement projects let students apply classroom learning.
• Support for careers and further study: dedicated advising, pre-law and public affairs resources, and strong links with alumni working in government, NGOs and advocacy groups.
• Interdisciplinary options: easy cross-registration opportunities with departments in economics, sociology, history and area studies to tailor your course of study to specific interests.

Taken together, the programme and campus resources provide a rigorous academic foundation, practical experience and professional support to prepare graduates for diverse careers or advanced study in politics and public affairs.