University of Memphis

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 quantitative analysis. Early years typically cover foundational subjects such as American national and state government, introduction to political science, and political thought. Later-stage or upper-division modules focus on areas such as public policy, constitutional law, civil liberties, electoral behaviour, interest groups and political parties, international security, and comparative political systems. Students also take courses in statistics for social sciences and research design to develop skills in data analysis, survey research and critical empirical evaluation.

Students choose from elective clusters to deepen specialisms—examples include public administration and policy, international relations and diplomacy, law and courts, or political behaviour and campaigns. The programme encourages experiential learning through internships with government agencies, advocacy organisations or local political offices, and typically culminates in a capstone research paper or seminar where students apply theoretical and methodological tools to a substantive political question.

Typical modules

• Foundations of American Government
• Comparative Politics
• Introduction to International Relations
• Political Theory
• Research Methods in Political Science
• Statistics for the Social Sciences
• Public Policy and Administration
• Constitutional Law and Civil Liberties
• Electoral Politics and Campaigns
• Capstone Seminar or Senior Research Project

Entry requirements

Admission to the bachelor’s programme normally requires a high-school diploma or equivalent with a record of academic achievement. Typical expectations include a solid academic profile in humanities and social sciences; prospective students benefit from coursework in history, civics, economics and English. Standardised test scores (SAT/ACT) may be considered according to the university's admissions policy, and some applicants may be admitted without test scores depending on institutional practice.

Transfer applicants are usually required to present college transcripts demonstrating satisfactory performance at post-secondary level and to meet residency and credit requirements for graduation. International applicants must meet English language proficiency standards and provide credentials evaluated according to university guidelines. Competitive applicants often demonstrate extracurricular engagement such as debate, student government, volunteering, internships, or work experience relevant to civic life.

Career prospects

Graduates with a BA in Political Science and Government go into a wide range of public- and private-sector roles. Common career paths include positions in local, state and federal government, public policy and legislative staff, campaign management and political consulting, and roles in non-profit organisations and advocacy groups. The degree also provides solid preparation for further study and professional schools, particularly law school, public administration, international affairs and graduate research in political science.

Other employment destinations include policy analysis, public affairs and communications, journalism and media, electoral and campaign work, education, and roles in international organisations or business that require strong analytical, writing and problem‑solving skills. Internships and practicum experiences arranged during study are frequently instrumental in building networks and securing entry-level positions.

Why study at University of Memphis

The University of Memphis offers a political science programme located in a mid-sized urban setting that provides abundant opportunities for internships and civic engagement with municipal, county and state institutions. Students benefit from faculty who teach both substantive political topics and research methods, with avenues for collaborative research and applied projects. The department supports experiential learning through community partnerships, internship advising and student-run organisations that allow practical application of classroom learning.

Studying in Memphis gives students access to a diverse political and cultural environment, which enhances classroom discussion and research opportunities. The university also provides pathways for pre-law advising, interdisciplinary study with departments such as sociology, history and economics, and support services for career development and graduate-school preparation.