Frostburg State University

What you'll study

The programme combines core courses in American government, comparative politics, international relations and political theory with training in research methods and applied public policy. You will study how institutions operate, how public opinion and interest groups shape decisions, and how domestic politics connect to global processes.

• Core modules – American National Government, Comparative Politics, Political Theory, International Relations.
• Research and methods – Introduction to Political Research, Quantitative Methods/Statistics for Social Science, Qualitative Methods.
• Policy and practice – Public Administration, Public Policy Analysis, Campaigns and Elections, Constitutional Law.
• Electives and specialised topics – Environmental Policy, Human Rights, Urban Politics, Security Studies, Globalisation and Development.
• Experiential learning – internship placements with local or state government, non-profit organisations, or legislative offices; opportunities for field trips, practicum work and co-curricular simulations such as Model UN or Mock Trial.
• Capstone – a senior seminar or research project that synthesises theory and practical skills, often including an original research paper or policy brief.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised secondary school qualification and meet Frostburg State University’s general undergraduate admission standards. Admissions will consider your academic record, personal statement and any supporting documents such as letters of recommendation. If you are transferring from another college or university, you will be asked to provide official college transcripts for credit evaluation.

• Recommended academic background: courses in social studies, history, civics/politics and strong competence in English; mathematics or statistics are useful for research-methods courses.
• Standardised tests: Frostburg State considers standardised test results according to its admissions policies; many applicants apply without test scores depending on institutional guidelines.
• International applicants: must demonstrate proficiency in English through recognised tests or prior education in English, and supply documentation required by the university for international admission.

Career prospects

Graduates build careers across the public, private and non-profit sectors. The degree develops analytical, research and communication skills employers seek and provides a solid foundation for further professional training.

• Public sector: roles in local, state or federal government, legislative staff, policy analysis and public administration.
• Law and compliance: many students progress to law school or work in regulatory affairs and legal support roles.
• Non-profit and advocacy: programme development, campaign management, lobbying and community organising.
• Business and consulting: public affairs, government relations, corporate sustainability and market research.
• Media and education: journalism, communications, teaching and research positions; graduates also pursue postgraduate study in political science, public policy, international relations or related disciplines.

Why study at Frostburg State University

Frostburg State offers a close-knit campus environment with small class sizes and direct access to faculty who specialise in American politics, comparative politics and public policy. The department emphasises experiential learning, connecting students with internships in state and local government, advocacy groups and regional agencies.

• Location advantages: situated in western Maryland with practical connections to state government and reasonable travel access to regional centres for internships and fieldwork.
• Practical opportunities: established internship programmes, civic-engagement initiatives and student organisations that allow hands-on political work and networking.
• Support for progression: academic advising, career services and research supervision to help students prepare for employment or further study.