Grand Valley State University

What you'll study

This programme provides a broad foundation in political ideas, institutions and processes alongside applied skills in research and analysis. Core areas typically include American government and politics, comparative politics, international relations, and political theory. Students also study quantitative and qualitative research methods, public policy analysis, constitutional law, and political behaviour.

The degree structure usually combines required core courses, discipline electives and general education requirements. Many students choose concentrations or thematic tracks such as public policy and administration, international and global politics, or law and constitutional studies. Seminars, a senior capstone or research project, and optional practicum or internship placements with government agencies, non‑profits or campaigns are common components, emphasising applied learning and professional preparation.

• Introductory courses in political science and government
• Courses in political theory, ethics and philosophy of politics
• Comparative government and regional politics
• International relations and foreign policy
• Public policy analysis, public administration and budgeting
• Research methods, statistics for social sciences and data analysis
• Constitutional law, civil liberties and judicial politics
• Elective seminars on topics such as campaigning, interest groups, environmental politics or human rights

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a high school diploma or equivalent. Competitive applicants present a solid academic record with relevant coursework in history, social studies and English; evidence of quantitative ability is beneficial for research methods and policy courses. Grand Valley State University considers the whole application, including grades, curriculum strength, personal statement and any extracurricular involvement such as student government, debate, volunteer work or community service.

Transfer applicants should demonstrate successful college coursework and provide transcripts from prior institutions. International applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements. Prospective students are encouraged to check the university’s admissions pages for details on documentation and any programme-specific guidance.

Career prospects

Graduates with a degree in Political Science and Government enter a wide range of fields. Common career paths include public service and government administration, legislative staff work, policy analysis, campaign management and political consulting. Alumni also move into roles in law, non‑profit and advocacy organisations, international organisations, journalism, public affairs, and education.

The programme’s emphasis on research methods, writing and analytical skills also makes graduates attractive to employers in business, communications and data analysis. Many students pursue further study in law school, public policy (MPA/MPP), international relations or related graduate programmes.

Why study at Grand Valley State University

Grand Valley offers a student‑centred environment with a strong focus on experiential learning. The university fosters connections with state and regional government, which can provide internship opportunities in Lansing, Washington DC programmes and placements with local offices and non‑profits. Small class sizes allow close interaction with faculty who are active teachers and researchers in political science.

Students benefit from extracurricular opportunities such as model UN, debate and campus political organisations, plus support from career services for internships and job placement. The university’s liberal‑arts orientation encourages interdisciplinary study, allowing political science majors to combine coursework in economics, sociology, environmental studies or communication to tailor the degree to their career goals.