University of Kansas

What you'll study

The programme provides a broad foundation in political theory, American politics, comparative politics, international relations and public policy, combined with training in research methods and quantitative techniques. Students take core courses that introduce constitutional and administrative structures, political behaviour, and policy processes, and then choose from a range of electives to develop specialisms.

• Core topics: American government and politics, political theory, comparative politics, international relations.
• Research and methods: introductory and intermediate courses in research design, statistics for the social sciences, and data analysis.
• Policy and applied courses: public policy analysis, public administration, campaign politics, interest groups, and state and local government.
• Capstone and experiential learning: senior seminar or capstone project, honours thesis option, and structured internships with government offices, NGOs or political organisations.
• Electives and special topics: courses on civil liberties, political economy, gender and politics, human rights, global governance, and regional politics.

Students are encouraged to combine the major with minors or certificates such as legal studies, economics, statistics, or area studies, and to take advantage of study abroad and short-term fieldwork programmes to gain international perspective.

Entry requirements

Applicants need to meet the University of Kansas undergraduate admission standards and declare a major in political science. Typical successful applicants have a strong secondary school record with coursework that demonstrates reading, writing and quantitative skills.

• High school diploma or equivalent with a competitive grade point average.
• Recommended preparation: courses in history, social studies, economics, mathematics and English to develop analytical and written communication skills.
• Standardised tests: KU publishes its testing policy; applicants should consult the university for current guidance and whether submission of SAT/ACT scores is optional or required.
• International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through recognised tests or qualifications as specified by the university.
• Transfer students should provide college transcripts and evidence of readiness for upper-level coursework; some programmes may require a minimum number of completed credit hours.

Because availability can vary, applicants interested in honours tracks, internships in Washington or placements with the Dole Institute of Politics should contact the department for any additional selection criteria.

Career prospects

Graduates with a degree in political science and government pursue a wide range of careers across the public, private and third sectors. The combination of analytical, research and communication skills prepares students for roles that require policy understanding and stakeholder engagement.

• Public sector and civil service roles at local, state and national levels.
• Policy analyst, legislative aide, or programme officer in government agencies, think tanks and NGOs.
• Legal careers—many students go on to law school or paralegal work (law school requires separate admission).
• Campaign management, political consulting, and electoral administration.
• Journalism, media and communications, especially covering politics and public affairs.
• International organisations, diplomacy, and roles in development or human rights groups.
• Private sector positions in public affairs, corporate government relations, and risk analysis.
• Further academic study in political science, public policy, international relations or related disciplines.

Why study at University of Kansas

The University of Kansas offers a political science programme embedded in a research-active department with opportunities for close faculty mentorship, undergraduate research and small seminar teaching. Students benefit from the university's connections to regional and national political institutions and from experiential learning facilitated by campus centres and institutes.

• Experiential opportunities: internships and practicum placements that connect classroom learning with workplaces in government, advocacy and media.
• Resources and institutes: access to on-campus centres that host public events, speakers and archives, supporting civic engagement and research.
• Pre-professional support: advising for students targeting law school, public service careers or graduate study, and workshops on career skills and applications.
• Community and student life: active student organisations, political clubs, debate and model UN groups that provide leadership experience and networking.

Together, these elements make KU a suitable choice for students aiming to combine strong disciplinary training with practical experience and clear professional pathways in politics and government.