Rice University

What you'll study

The Political Science and Government degree offers a mix of core theory, methodological training and substantive subfields. Students take foundational courses in political theory, American politics, comparative politics and international relations, alongside classes in quantitative and qualitative research methods. Typical modules include:

• Introduction to Political Theory and Contemporary Political Thought
• American Political Institutions and Constitutional Politics
• Comparative Politics: Regimes and Political Development
• International Relations and Global Governance
• Political Behaviour and Public Opinion
• Research Design, Statistics for Political Scientists and Data Analysis
• Public Policy Analysis and Policy Implementation
• Specialist seminars on topics such as race and politics, urban politics, political economy, human rights, and security studies

The department encourages original research through senior capstone projects and honours theses. Students can combine coursework with internships, practicum placements or independent study, and often take elective courses from related departments such as history, economics, sociology, public policy and international studies.

Entry requirements

Admission to Rice is competitive and based on a holistic review of academic achievement and extracurricular engagement. Typical preparation for applicants includes a strong secondary-school record with rigorous coursework—such as advanced-level or AP classes where available—in social studies, mathematics (as preparation for quantitative methods) and writing. Successful applicants generally demonstrate:

• High academic achievement across a challenging course load
• Clear interest in politics, public affairs, community involvement or research, evidenced by activities, essays and recommendations
• Strong written and oral communication skills
• Preparedness for quantitative coursework (e.g., prior coursework in algebra, statistics or equivalent)

Applicants are advised to consult Rice University's admissions office for detailed application components and for information about testing, transfers and credit for prior learning. International applicants should ensure they meet any additional language-proficiency and documentation requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates with a Political Science and Government degree pursue a broad range of careers. The programme develops analytical, research and communication skills that are highly transferable across sectors. Common pathways include:

• Public sector roles at local, state and national government agencies
• Policy analysis and programme evaluation at think tanks, research institutes and advocacy organisations
• Legal careers and preparation for law school
• International organisations, diplomacy and development work
• Consulting, public affairs, lobbying and corporate government-relations roles
• Journalism, media and public communication
• Further study in political science, public policy, international relations or related graduate programmes

Many students gain practical experience through internships in Houston’s civic institutions, non-profit sector and energy/industry headquarters, which can lead to entry-level positions or inform graduate study decisions.

Why study at Rice University

Rice combines a strong liberal-arts core with opportunities for focused political research and experiential learning. The department’s small class sizes and close faculty mentoring support independent research, including honours theses and collaborative projects. Students benefit from proximity to campus centres and institutes focused on public policy and international affairs, which offer lectures, workshops and internship links.

Rice’s residential-college system creates a lively intellectual community, while Houston’s diverse civic landscape provides a wide range of practicum, internship and employment opportunities across government, non-profit, energy and healthcare sectors. The university’s emphasis on interdisciplinary study allows Political Science students to tailor their degree with minors or concentrations that complement their career goals.