St. Thomas University (FL)

What you'll study

The Political Science degree combines core foundational courses with topical electives and applied learning. Typical core subjects include American Government and Politics, Comparative Politics, International Relations, Political Theory, Public Policy, Constitutional Law and Research Methods in Political Science. Students usually take a mix of lecture and seminar classes that emphasise critical reading, quantitative and qualitative research skills, and persuasive writing.

Programme structure commonly includes a first-year introduction to political institutions and methods, mid-level courses that examine policy processes and regional politics, and advanced seminars focused on specialised areas such as human rights, political economy, environmental policy, or race and politics. Most students complete a capstone experience — a senior seminar, research project or internship — that integrates theoretical knowledge with practical application.

• Introductory modules: Foundations of Political Science, Introduction to Comparative Politics, Introduction to International Relations
• Core modules: American Constitutional Law, Public Administration and Policy, Political Theory, Research Methods
• Electives and concentrations: Electoral Politics and Campaigns, Global Governance, Latin American Politics, Human Rights, Environmental Politics
• Applied learning: internship placements, community-engaged projects, moot court or model UN participation

Assessment and skills

Assessment typically combines essays, policy briefs, examinations, oral presentations and a research-based capstone. Graduates develop analytical reasoning, data interpretation, persuasive writing, public speaking and practical skills for policy research and civic leadership.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised high school diploma or equivalent. Admissions decisions consider academic record, strength of English-language proficiency (where applicable), and the overall application, which may include a personal statement and academic references. Standardised tests (such as SAT or ACT) are considered where submitted but may not be mandatory; international applicants should demonstrate acceptable proof of English proficiency.

Typical successful candidates have strong grades in humanities and social sciences, evidence of extracurricular engagement or civic activity, and a clear interest in politics, public service or related fields. Transfer applicants are usually required to submit college transcripts and may receive credit for previous coursework.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Political Science programme move into a broad array of careers across public, private and non-profit sectors. Common pathways include roles in government and public administration, legislative and campaign work, policy analysis and advocacy, non-governmental organisations, and international organisations. The degree also provides strong preparation for law school and postgraduate study in political science, public policy, international affairs or related disciplines.

Other career options include journalism and media, political consulting, community organising, research positions in think tanks, and roles in corporate public affairs. Practical experiences such as internships and the university's local partnerships help students build networks and gain workplace-ready skills.

Why study at St. Thomas University (FL)

St. Thomas University offers small class sizes and close faculty mentoring, enabling personalised academic advising and support for applied learning. The university's Catholic mission emphasises ethics, social justice and service, which is reflected in many Political Science courses and community-engaged projects.

Located in the Miami metropolitan area, St. Thomas provides access to diverse political environments, internship opportunities at local government offices, advocacy organisations and international agencies, and a multicultural setting that is particularly valuable for students studying comparative and international politics. The university also offers pre-law advising, student clubs related to politics and debate, and opportunities for study abroad and experiential learning that enhance both academic and career development.