Alvernia University

What you'll study

The programme provides a foundation in the key subfields of political science while emphasising applied skills in research, analysis and communication. Students follow a mix of required core courses, methodological training, electives and an experiential component such as an internship or capstone project.

• Core modules: Introduction to American Government, Comparative Politics, Political Theory, International Relations, Public Administration and Constitutional Law.
• Methods and skills: Research Methods in Political Science, Statistics for the Social Sciences, Qualitative Methods and Data Analysis for Policy.
• Applied and elective topics: Public Policy Analysis, Environmental Policy, Campaigns and Elections, Political Communication, Local Government and Urban Policy, Human Rights and Global Governance.
• Experiential learning: Internship placements with government offices, non-profit organisations, advocacy groups or policy centres; community-engaged learning projects and opportunities for study abroad.
• Capstone: A senior seminar or research project that integrates substantive knowledge with primary research or a practicum experience.

Structure

The programme is typically completed over four years and combines the major requirements with Alvernia's general education curriculum. Students work closely with faculty advisors to select electives and arrange internships, and many take advantage of pre-law advising or combined honours options when available.

Entry requirements

Admission to the undergraduate Political Science and Government programme normally requires a high school diploma or equivalent. Alvernia evaluates applicants on academic preparation, recommendation letters and a personal statement outlining interest in the field. Standardised test submission may be optional depending on institutional policy; applicants should check current guidance from the Admissions Office.

• Typical academic background: College-preparatory coursework with strengths in social studies, history, English and mathematics; demonstrated writing and analytical ability.
• Supporting materials: High school transcript, one or more letters of recommendation, and a personal statement or essay describing academic and career goals.
• Transfer and non-traditional students: Transfer applicants are assessed on college-level work already completed; prior coursework and credit evaluations are handled by the Registrar.
• International applicants: Must present an equivalent secondary credential and evidence of English language proficiency where required (for example, TOEFL or IELTS scores) or other accepted proof of competency.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Political Science and Government programme move into a wide range of careers in public, private and non-profit sectors or continue to graduate and professional study. The programme emphasises practical experience and professional preparation to support multiple pathways.

• Positions in local, state and federal government agencies and legislative offices
• Roles in policy analysis, programme evaluation and public administration
• Employment with non-profit organisations, advocacy groups and international NGOs
• Campaign management, political consulting and communications roles
• Research assistant and analyst roles in think tanks and policy centres
• Progression to law school, graduate programmes in public policy, international affairs or political science
• Public affairs, corporate social responsibility and government relations roles in the private sector

Why study at Alvernia University

Alvernia offers a small, student-centred learning environment grounded in a liberal arts tradition and Franciscan values, with particular emphasis on service, ethical leadership and community engagement. Political science students benefit from small class sizes, direct access to faculty mentors and a curriculum that integrates theory with real-world experience.

• Experiential opportunities: Strong connections with regional government offices, non-profits and community partners provide internship and practicum placements.
• Faculty mentorship: Faculty members with teaching and applied research backgrounds guide student research, independent studies and capstone projects.
• Career and professional support: Pre-law advising, internship placement assistance and career services help students prepare for employment or graduate study.
• Community engagement: Service-learning and civic engagement are embedded in coursework, reflecting the university’s emphasis on ethical leadership and public service.