Ithaca College

What you'll study

The programme combines core theory with applied coursework and opportunities for independent research. You will typically take introductory courses in political theory, American government, comparative politics and international relations, together with quantitative and qualitative research methods. From there you can choose advanced modules such as constitutional law, public policy analysis, politics of development, environmental and energy policy, political behaviour and campaigns, legislative processes, and seminars in political philosophy.

Students complete a capstone requirement that may take the form of a senior seminar, an honours thesis or a practicum. Practical learning is emphasised: coursework is often paired with simulations, case studies, data projects and guest speakers. Students are also encouraged to take elective modules from allied fields such as economics, sociology, history and communications to broaden their analytical toolkit.

• Core topics: political theory, American politics, comparative politics, international relations, research methods
• Typical advanced modules: constitutional law, public policy analysis, campaigns & elections, environmental/public administration, global governance
• Capstone and research: senior seminar, independent research project or practicum
• Experiential learning: internships, community-engaged projects, simulations and speaker series
• Study abroad and exchanges: options to study overseas to develop comparative perspectives

Entry requirements

Entry is based on a secondary school diploma or equivalent with a strong academic record and evidence of readiness for collegiate study. Typical offers consider overall grades, the strength of academic subjects (history, social studies, economics or maths recommended), and the applicant's personal statement. Colleges in the United States often have a holistic admissions process; applicants may submit standardised test scores where available, though many institutions operate test-optional policies.

Other common elements in a successful application include letters of recommendation, examples of written work, and demonstrated interest in civic or extracurricular activities such as debate, volunteer service or student government. International applicants must provide proof of secondary completion equivalent to a U.S. diploma and meet English language proficiency requirements if English is not their first language.

Career prospects

Graduates with a political science degree pursue a range of careers in the public, private and non-profit sectors. Common destinations include local, state and federal government roles; legislative or policy analyst positions; campaign management and political consulting; public affairs and communications; non-governmental organisations and advocacy groups; international organisations and diplomacy; and roles in research institutes and think tanks.

Many students also use the degree as preparation for professional programmes such as law school, public policy/administration master’s degrees, or graduate study in political science. Employers value the programme’s emphasis on critical thinking, research design, data analysis, written and oral communication, and practical experience gained through internships.

Why study at Ithaca College

Ithaca College offers a small-college environment with close student–faculty interaction, enabling personalised advising and mentoring on research and career pathways. The department emphasises experiential learning and places students in internships and community projects across the Finger Lakes region and beyond, helping to translate classroom learning into practical experience.

Students benefit from access to interdisciplinary resources across the college, opportunities for undergraduate research and presentations, and a supportive campus community focused on civic engagement. The college’s location also provides a gateway to regional government, non-profit organisations and networks that can assist with internships and post-graduate employment.