Brandeis University

What you'll study

The Political Science and Government major at Brandeis covers core subfields including American politics, comparative politics, international relations, political theory and public law. Students take a mix of introductory and advanced courses, and the curriculum usually includes training in research design and quantitative methods to prepare undergraduates for empirical analysis.

• Foundations: introductory courses in political science theory, the American political system, and comparative politics.
• Research methods: courses in statistics, research design, and data analysis for political research.
• Subfield electives: options in international relations, political economy, public policy, human rights, electoral behaviour, and political philosophy.
• Capstone experience: opportunities for a senior seminar, independent research project or honours thesis supervised by faculty.
• Experiential learning: internships with local, national or international organisations, and practicum-style courses that connect classroom learning to real-world policy work.
• Interdisciplinary study: elective pathways and cross-registration options allow students to combine politics with economics, sociology, history, or legal studies.

Typical structure

Students typically complete core requirements in the first two years, add methodological and thematic electives in the second and third years, and undertake a senior-level thesis or seminar in the final year if pursuing honours. Many students also enhance their degree with study abroad, internships in nearby Boston or Washington, or collaborative research with faculty.

Entry requirements

Admission to Brandeis is selective and assesses applicants holistically. Typical components of a successful application include:

• Completion of a recognised secondary school diploma or equivalent with strong academic preparation in humanities and social sciences.
• Transcripts demonstrating rigorous coursework; advanced or honours-level classes where available are advantageous.
• Personal essay or statement that explains academic interests and reasons for choosing Political Science at Brandeis.
• Letters of recommendation from teachers or counsellors who can speak to academic potential and intellectual curiosity.
• Standardised test scores may be considered according to the university's current testing policy; applicants should consult Brandeis admissions for the latest guidance.
• International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through accepted tests or qualifications if their education was not conducted in English.

Transfer applicants will typically submit college transcripts and a statement of intent; credit transfer depends on course equivalence and departmental approval.

Career prospects

Graduates of Brandeis's Political Science and Government programme pursue careers across the public, private and non-profit sectors. The degree prepares students for roles that require analytical thinking, research skills and substantive knowledge of political systems.

• Public sector and government: policy analyst, legislative aide, public affairs officer, local and state government positions.
• Law and legal professions: many graduates go on to law school or work in legal research, compliance and advocacy.
• International organisations and NGOs: programme officer, human rights advocacy, development work and diplomacy.
• Research and think tanks: research assistant, data analyst and policy researcher positions.
• Media and communications: political journalism, public relations and communications strategy roles.
• Business and consulting: management consulting, market research and roles that value policy insight and quantitative analysis.

Alumni often continue to graduate study in political science, public policy, international relations or related professional programmes.

Why study at Brandeis University

Brandeis offers a liberal arts environment with a strong emphasis on social justice and interdisciplinary inquiry, making it well suited to students who want to combine rigorous political study with practical engagement. Small class sizes and close faculty mentorship provide opportunities for independent research and personalised academic development.

The university's location near Boston provides ready access to internship placements, civic organisations, courts and think tanks, while collaborations with graduate schools and research institutes on campus enable undergraduates to take part in funded research projects. Brandeis also supports study abroad and experiential learning that broaden comparative and international perspectives.