Florida International University

What you'll study

The programme combines core training in political analysis and research methods with options to specialise in subject areas such as American politics, comparative politics, international relations, public policy, political theory and Latino/Caribbean politics. Typical first‑ and second‑year modules introduce you to foundational topics including Introduction to Political Science, Comparative Politics, International Relations, U.S. Government and Politics and Research Methods in Political Science.

In upper years you build methodological skills and domain knowledge through courses such as Quantitative Methods and Political Data Analysis, Public Policy Analysis, Constitutional Law, Campaigns and Elections, Urban and Local Government and specialised seminars on topics like Latin American Politics or Human Rights. The degree typically culminates in a senior seminar, capstone project or honours thesis option and encourages experiential learning through an internship placement or practicum in government, NGOs or a policy organisation.

Structure and special features

• Core curriculum in political theory, institutions and methods.
• Concentration or elective pathways to tailor study to international relations, public policy, or regional politics.
• Capstone seminar or senior research project for advanced analytical experience.
• Internship and experiential learning opportunities leveraging FIU’s Miami location and partnerships.
• Options for study abroad and research with faculty at FIU’s interdisciplinary centres.

Entry requirements

Admission to the bachelor’s programme is based on successful completion of secondary education or an equivalent qualification. Typical expectations include a competitive high school record with coursework in social studies, English and mathematics. FIU considers applicants holistically; standardised test scores (SAT/ACT) may be optional depending on admission policies in place at the time of application.

For transfer applicants, admission usually requires a minimum number of transferable credits and a satisfactory college GPA. International applicants must demonstrate equivalency of secondary qualifications and English language proficiency where required (for example via TOEFL, IELTS or other approved tests). Some programme options, honours tracks or scholarships may request a personal statement, résumé of extracurricular experience and/or references.

Career prospects

Graduates from the Political Science and Government programme move into a broad range of careers. Common destinations include:

• Public sector and government: policy analyst, legislative aide, public affairs specialist, municipal or state administration roles.
• Non‑profit and advocacy: programme coordinator, campaigner, policy researcher for NGOs and international organisations.
• Private sector and consulting: government relations, public affairs, consulting firms that advise on regulatory and policy issues.
• Law and graduate study: many alumni progress to law school or advanced degrees in public policy, international affairs or political science.
• Media and research: journalism, polling and electoral analysis, think tanks and academic research.

Hands‑on internships and FIU’s location in a major international city also open opportunities in diplomatic missions, trade organisations and bilingual roles focused on Latin America and the Caribbean.

Why study at Florida International University

FIU’s setting in Miami provides exceptional regional advantages for political study: a multilingual, multicultural urban environment, close connections to Latin America and the Caribbean and a large concentration of public, private and international organisations. The university offers faculty expertise in comparative politics, international relations and Latino politics, plus interdisciplinary research centres that support student research and experiential learning.

Students benefit from a diverse student body, internship placement support, study‑abroad networks and career services that help translate undergraduate training into employment or graduate study. The programme’s flexible elective structure and applied capstone experiences are designed to prepare graduates for both immediate entry into the workforce and further professional or academic credentials.