Bachelor of Arts in Political Science

The Bachelor of Arts in Political Science program explores the concept of power—how it's used, who benefits, and its impact on society. Through rigorous coursework and hands-on learning, you will develop the skills to excel in your career, graduate or law school, and as an engaged citizen.

Degrees Offered

Bachelor of Arts

Program Types

Undergraduate

Mode of Study

On Campus

Department

Political Science

School / College

College of Arts and Sciences

What is a political science degree?

A political science degree gives you the tools to understand and engage with the political forces shaping our world. In the program, you will explore everything from government structures and political theory to pressing global issues like human rights, justice, and public policy.

Why major in political science at Redlands?

Majoring in political science at Redlands will satisfy your curiosity about politics, policy, and law while empowering you to make a meaningful impact on the world. You will develop critical thinking, analytical, and communication skills while gaining hands-on experience through internships, research projects, and opportunities to participate in local or national politics. Whether you’re interested in law, public service, international relations, or advocacy, this degree prepares you to make a meaningful impact in the political arena and beyond.

Completion of the minor in political science requires:

A minimum of 24 credits in the department.
At least 12 credits must be taken at the University of Redlands.

Other courses

With prior approval of their academic advisors and the Political Science Department chair, students may count three upper-division courses offered by other departments, off-campus coursework (such as through foreign study programs or a Washington Semester), internships, and individualized study courses for up to 12 credits of elective credit toward the major or minor.
Because political science courses are an integral part of the international relations major, students are not permitted to major or minor in both political science and international relations. Students who opt to double major should define two separate courses of study or concentrations; 28 units (7 courses) must be stand-alone credits (i.e., not overlap between these majors).

Established Elective Concentrations

Law and politics

POLI 306 Constitutional Law: National and State Powers (4)
POLI 307 Constitutional Law: Liberty and Authority (4)
POLI 318 American Political Thought and Practice (4)
POLI 345 International Law and Organization (4)
POLI 363 Special Topics in Public Law (4)
POLI 463 Advanced Seminar in Public Law (4)

Governance and policy

PLCY 100 Introduction to Public Policy Analysis (4)
POLI 207 Environmental Politics and Policy (4)
POLI 208 California Politics (3) - offered as a May Term course
POLI 250 American Foreign Policy (4)
POLI 304 U.S. Congress (4)
POLI 308 U.S. Presidency (4)
POLI 354 Immigration Politics and Policy (4)
POLI 456 Education Policy (4)
POLI 457 Health Care Policy (4)

World politics

IR 200 International Relations Theory (4)
POLI 220 European Politics and Development (4)
POLI 226 Middle East and African Politics (4)
POLI 230 Latin American Politics and Development (4)
POLI 244 International Security (4)
POLI 250 American Foreign Policy (4)
POLI 325 Comparative Parties and Elections (4)
POLI 332 Politics of Japan and Korea (4)
POLI 345 International Law and Organization (4)
POLI 346 Foreign Policies of Russia and the Former Soviet States (4)
POLI 462 Advanced Seminar in Comparative Politics (4)
POLI 464 Advanced Seminar in International Relations (4)

Classes you'll take

To view specific classes, program requirements, and coursework information, visit the current university catalog.

Undergraduate application deadlines

Spring 2025

November 1, 2024*

Fall 2025 - First Year

November 15, 2024 - Early Action

Fall 2025 - First Year

January 15, 2025 - Regular Decision*

Fall 2025 - Transfer

March 1, 2025 - Regular Decision*

Note

*Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis after the deadline based on capacity.

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What you'll learn

Critical thinking

You will learn to systematically apply sound logic and valid evidence to the analysis of politics.

Analysis & research

You will learn how to produce coherent independent research about politics by relying on both primary and secondary sources.

Effective communication

You will learn how to compose written work that is analytically sound, clear, and persuasive and be able to orally communicate political science findings and arguments in a coherent and persuasive manner.

Civic literacy

You will learn to draw reasoned conclusions about the practical and normative implications of governing decisions made in contemporary and historical contexts.

View catalog to learn more

What you'll learn

Mutiple media - Polic science and public policy students

Graduates pursue careers in

Public service

As a public servant or public administrator at the international, national, state, and local level, you will champion community voices with visionary leadership and unwavering dedication.

Federal agencies

As an agent of the CIA, FBI, or State Department, you will support lawmakers by conducting research, drafting legislation, and managing constituent relations.

Law

As a lawyer or judge, you will deliver justice with expert legal insight and unwavering advocacy.

Education

As a professor of political science, you will teach students about government, politics, theory, and law, guiding them towards an impactful career.

Graduates pursue careers in

90 %

of University of Redlands B.A. in Political Science graduates have successful outcomes within six months of graduation.

First Year Destination Survey, 2023

9 out of 10 ( 91 %)

Alumni shared they gained critical thinking skills from their degree.

NACM Alumni Career Mobility, 2022

Top 10

Best Universities in the West

U.S. News & World Report, 2023

Career Prep

The University of Redlands offers many ways to prepare you for life after graduation.

Visit career prep page

Featured faculty

Every Redlands faculty member is an active practitioner in their field. The classes they teach emerge from their unique research and practices, and they’re passionate about what they’re sharing. At Redlands, faculty are invested in and committed to your success.