Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota

What you'll study

The programme provides a broad grounding in political institutions, political behaviour and public policy, combining theoretical study with practical skills. Core topics typically include American government and politics, comparative politics, international relations, political theory, public administration and constitutional law.

• Foundations: Introduction to Political Science, Political Theory, American National Government.
• Comparative and Global Politics: Comparative Political Systems, International Relations, Regional politics courses (e.g. European, Latin American politics).
• Policy and Administration: Public Policy Analysis, Public Administration, State and Local Government.
• Research and Methods: Research Methods in Political Science, Quantitative Methods or Statistics for the Social Sciences.
• Law and Institutions: Constitutional Law, Civil Liberties, Judicial Politics.
• Capstone and Experiential Learning: Senior Capstone or Thesis, internship placements, practicum in community organisations, and opportunities for undergraduate research or study abroad.

Students may also select electives in related areas such as economics, history, sociology, communications and global studies, and can often combine the major with minors in public administration, peace and justice studies, or international affairs.

Entry requirements

Applicants typically need a completed secondary-school certificate or equivalent. Saint Mary’s considers the whole applicant, so recommended preparation includes coursework in social studies, history and English, and evidence of strong writing and critical thinking. Admission from community colleges and other universities is welcome; transfer applicants should provide college transcripts showing successful completion of general education and introductory political science coursework.

Standard application materials include a high-school or college transcript, a personal statement, and letters of recommendation when requested. The university has holistic review practices and may make standardised tests optional; international applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through accepted tests or approved pathways.

Career prospects

Graduates with a degree in Political Science and Government from Saint Mary’s are prepared for a wide range of careers in both the public and private sectors. Typical career paths include:

• Public service and government roles at local, state and federal levels
• Policy analysis and public affairs positions in think tanks, NGOs and advocacy organisations
• Legislative staffer, political campaign work and constituency relations
• Law school and legal professions, supported by preparation in research and argumentation
• Journalism, communications and public relations, particularly covering public policy and civic issues
• International organisations, diplomacy and development work
• Further study in public administration, international relations or related postgraduate programmes

Internships and practicum placements arranged through the university frequently lead to professional connections and entry-level positions. The programme’s emphasis on writing, research and quantitative methods makes graduates attractive to employers who value analytical and communication skills.

Why study at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota

Saint Mary’s offers a small-campus, student-centred environment rooted in liberal-arts and Catholic intellectual traditions, which fosters close faculty mentoring and classroom discussion. The university emphasises experiential learning: political science students benefit from internship programmes, community-engaged projects, and opportunities for undergraduate research and study abroad that place theory in practical settings.

Faculty tend to have a balance of teaching focus and applied research, offering guidance on careers in public service, law and non-profit sectors. The campus culture supports leadership development and civic engagement, and resources such as career services and alumni networks help students secure internships and job placements after graduation.