Overview

Political Science is a social science that analyzes how governmental systems and politics work, in any sort of setting, from global governance, to the politics of local communities and schools. The Political Science major provides students with key critical thinking, problem solving, communication, and ethical skills, to be prepared for a wide variety of careers in government, law, non-profits, education, and the private sector. Examples of classes include:

• Civil Liberties
• Women & Politics
• The American Presidency
• Classic Political Theory
• Civic & Nonprofit Leadership
• International Terrorism
• African-American Politics
• Criminal Law
• State & Local Government
• Political Behavior
• Environmental Politics & Policy

Why study Political Science at EIU? 

• We have small classes taught entirely by department faculty, where you make connections with fellow students and faculty.
• Our faculty care about you--we learn your names, we mentor you, we support you in the learning process.
• All students complete an applied learning experience through internships, study abroad, government simulations, an independent study, or an honors thesis.
• All students write and present a research project in their senior capstone course.
• Our program is flexible, allowing you to complete a double-major and/or minors. 
• We offer an accelerated graduate program for qualified students, where you can earn a B.A. and M.A. in 5 years.
• We offer a 3+3 B.A./J.D. degree with Northern Illinois University for qualified students.

Our students are leaders, change agents, problem solvers--skills necessary for just about any career. Our students are adaptable and flexible, ready to learn new skills as fields and technology develop. Our students care--they are already leaders on campus and in our community. They want to make a difference, and we hope you join us!

Degree: B.A.

Completion time: 39 hours

Resources

- Degree Plan
- Course Catalog Entry