University of Findlay

What you'll study

The Political Science and Government degree combines core courses in political theory, American government and comparative politics with applied training in research methods and public policy. You will study how political systems operate, how public decisions are made, and how citizens and organisations influence outcomes.

• Core subjects: Introduction to Political Science, American National Government, Comparative Politics, International Relations, Political Theory.
• Research and methods: Research Methods in Political Science, Statistics for the Social Sciences, Qualitative Methods, Policy Analysis.
• Law and institutions: Constitutional Law, Public Administration, Campaigns and Elections, Local and State Government.
• Applied learning: Internship/field placement, capstone seminar or senior project, practicum opportunities in policy analysis or community engagement.
• Electives and special topics: Human Rights, Comparative Public Policy, Environmental Politics, Political Communication, Interest Groups and Lobbying.

The programme is structured to allow breadth through general education and electives as well as depth within the major. Students may combine the major with minors or concentrations such as international studies, economics, communication, or public administration. Many students take advantage of internships with local government offices, non-profits and advocacy organisations, and there are opportunities for study abroad and research with faculty.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a high-school diploma or equivalent with a college preparatory curriculum. Admissions decisions consider academic record, strength of secondary-school coursework, and the applicant's personal statement. Standardised test results may be considered where submitted, but many applicants are evaluated holistically.

• Recommended documents: Official high-school transcripts, personal statement or essay, and at least one academic reference.
• Transfer students: Submit college transcripts; transfer credit is assessed on a course-by-course basis.
• International applicants: Present equivalent secondary qualifications and evidence of English language proficiency where required.

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. The degree develops analytical, research and communication skills that are valued by employers.

• Public service and government roles at local, state and national levels
• Policy analysis and public administration
• Law (many graduates go on to law school) and legal support roles
• Non-profit management, advocacy and community organising
• Political campaigns, legislative staff and lobbying
• Media, communications and public affairs
• Further academic study at master's or doctoral level in political science, public policy, international relations or related fields

Why study at University of Findlay

The University of Findlay offers small class sizes and accessible faculty, which supports close mentoring and personalised academic advising for political science students. The campus environment emphasises experiential learning, enabling students to combine classroom theory with internships, research projects and community-engaged work.

Students benefit from opportunities to intern with municipal and state government offices, non-profit organisations and regional advocacy groups, gaining practical experience relevant to careers in public affairs and policy. The programme also supports students preparing for graduate study or professional school through structured capstone projects, research supervision and guidance on professional pathways.