Political Science Department

Political Science  

Political Science students at EIU explore how governments, policies, and political systems work at the local, national, and global level. Organized around hands-on learning and flexible pathways, the program builds strong skills in critical thinking, communication, problem-solving, and leadership.

Civic & Nonprofit Leadership Option

Build the skills to lead in government, nonprofits, and public service. This option blends public administration, policy, and applied tools like GIS to prepare you for community impact, leadership roles, and graduate or law school.

International Studies Option

Explore global politics and international policy while building strong communication, problem-solving, and language skills. This option prepares you for careers in diplomacy, international organizations, global nonprofits, and graduate or law school.

Peace Corps Prep Program

The Peace Corps Prep program will prepare you for international development fieldwork and potential Peace Corps service. To accomplish this, you’ll build four core competencies through interrelated coursework, hands-on experience, and professional development support.

Moot Court

Students work as teams of attorneys preparing to make arguments at the appellate court level, with these arguments requiring not only intellectual and verbal dexterity but also knowledge of actual federal and state level court opinions. 

Model Illinois Government

Students prepare for a simulation that takes place each March in Springfield, using the same facilities of our state government officials

Model United Nations

Students take on the role of global and diplomatic leaders in a range of Model UN simulations.