Central Washington University

What you'll study

The Political Science and Government programme combines core theory with applied methods so you learn how political systems work, how policy is made, and how to analyse public opinion and institutions. Core topics typically include American government and constitutional law, comparative politics, political theory, international relations, public administration and public policy.

Students take research methods and quantitative courses that cover political statistics, research design and data analysis, alongside electives that reflect their interests such as campaigning and elections, environmental policy, civil rights, ethics in public life, urban politics, and regional or area studies. Many programmes include a senior capstone experience — a research project, practicum or internship — that allows students to apply classroom learning to a real-world policy, campaign or organisational challenge.

• Introduction to American Government and Politics
• Comparative Politics
• International Relations
• Political Theory
• Research Methods in Political Science and Quantitative Analysis
• Public Policy and Administration
• Electives in specialised policy areas and regional politics
• Capstone seminar or internship/practicum

Programme structure

The degree is typically structured around a mix of general education, departmental core courses, electives within political science, and free electives or minor requirements. Students may pursue concentrations or minors (for example pre-law, international studies or public administration) and can transfer credits from community college or study abroad programmes to broaden their experience.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a high school diploma or equivalent. Admissions commonly consider a combination of secondary school grades, the strength of the academic record in social studies and writing, and other factors such as extracurricular involvement or leadership experience. Central Washington University follows standard US undergraduate admission procedures; standardised tests may be optional depending on current institutional policy.

Transfer students should provide official college transcripts and will have transfer credit evaluated according to departmental and university guidelines. International applicants must submit certified academic records and demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests or prior study in English; specific score expectations and documentation requirements are available from the university admissions office.

Career prospects

Graduates with a BA in Political Science and Government pursue a wide range of careers. Common pathways include roles in federal, state or local government, legislative and constituency work, public policy analysis, campaign management and political consulting. Other graduates work in non-governmental organisations, advocacy groups, international organisations, journalism, public affairs, or take positions in the private sector that require strong analytical and communication skills.

The degree is also a common pre-law preparation and provides solid preparation for graduate study in public policy, international affairs, political science or law. Practical experiences such as internships, applied research projects and participation in student government, debate or Model UN significantly enhance employability.

Why study at Central Washington University

Central Washington University offers small-to-medium class sizes and accessible faculty who combine teaching with active research and community engagement. Located in Ellensburg, the university provides opportunities for internships and public-sector engagement across Washington state, and a campus environment that supports hands-on learning through practicum placements, undergraduate research and civic engagement activities.

Students benefit from advising resources tailored to pre-law, public service and international study, as well as student organisations related to politics and policy that allow practical leadership experience. The programme’s balanced mix of theory, methods and applied study prepares graduates to enter the workforce directly or continue into graduate and professional schools.