University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

What you'll study

The Political Science degree combines core courses in American politics, comparative politics, international relations and political theory with quantitative and qualitative research methods. Students build analytical skills through a mix of lectures, seminars and practical projects.

• Core areas: introductory and advanced courses in American government and institutions, political behaviour and public opinion, comparative politics, international relations, and political philosophy.
• Methods and skills: statistical analysis, research design, public opinion polling, qualitative methods, and computing for social science research.
• Policy and applied courses: public policy analysis, public administration, interest groups and lobbying, campaigns and elections, and topics in human rights, security and development.
• Electives and concentrations: options to specialise in areas such as political theory, race and politics, gender and politics, environmental politics, or political economy, drawing on interdisciplinary offerings across the university.
• Capstone and research: senior seminars, independent research projects or an honours thesis supervised by faculty, providing experience in original research and argumentation.
• Experiential learning: internship placements with state and local government, non-profit organisations, advocacy groups, and opportunities for study abroad and Washington, D.C. programmes.

Entry requirements

Admission to UNC–Chapel Hill is competitive and based on a combination of academic performance, curriculum strength, and other application materials. Typical undergraduate entry expectations include a strong secondary-school record with rigorous coursework.

• Academic preparation: a high school diploma or equivalent with strengths in social studies, history and mathematics; courses in writing and statistics are helpful preparation for degree work.
• A-levels / IB / High school curriculum: strong performance in a rigorous college-preparatory programme is expected; specific subject requirements vary by country and credential.
• Standardised tests and documents: standardised test policies can vary; prospective students should consult the university for current guidance. Applications typically include personal essays and may include letters of recommendation.
• Transfer and international applicants: transfers should show strong college-level coursework in relevant subjects. International applicants must meet English-language proficiency requirements and submit equivalent academic documentation.
• Advising and placement: admitted students meet with departmental advisors to plan a major pathway and any optional honours or multidisciplinary combinations.

Career prospects

Graduates with a Political Science degree from UNC–Chapel Hill pursue a wide range of careers in the public, private and third sectors, as well as further study.

• Public sector roles in local, state and federal government, policy analysis, legislative staff and public administration.
• Careers in law, including preparation for law school and roles in legal services, advocacy and public-interest law.
• Non-profit and international organisations, including programme management, advocacy, human rights and development work.
• Political campaigns, polling and public opinion research, communications, and media or political journalism.
• Private-sector opportunities in consulting, public affairs, corporate government relations and market research, often using quantitative and analytic skills developed in the programme.
• Graduate study in political science, public policy, international relations, public administration, business or related fields.

Why study at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

The Department of Political Science at UNC–Chapel Hill combines a long-standing liberal-arts tradition with active research by faculty across political theory, empirical politics and policy studies. Students benefit from small upper-level seminars, opportunities to work with faculty on research, and strong methodological training.

• Proximity to the North Carolina state capital and a strong network of public-sector and non-profit internship opportunities provide practical experiences that complement classroom learning.
• Interdisciplinary options allow students to pair political science with programmes across law, public policy, economics, journalism and area studies, broadening career pathways.
• Support services including academic advising, research centres and career counselling help students transition from study to professional roles or graduate education.
• The university’s alumni network and connections in government, media and business create pathways for mentorship, internships and employment after graduation.