Political Science

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  • Overview
  • Freshmen
  • Transfer
  • Related Programs

Overview

Political Science analyzes how governments and politics work, from global governance to local communities and schools. The Political Science major provides students with critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and ethical decision-making skills, to be prepared for a wide variety of careers in government, law, non-profits, education, and the private sector. Over the last 5 years, 50% of our majors move on to law school or graduate school. Our students are leaders, change agents, problem solvers--skills necessary for all careers. 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!

Why study Political Science at EIU? 

  • Gain hands-on experience through internships, study abroad, government simulations, or a research project.
  • Develop professional career and research skills in the senior capstone course.
  • Easily add a double-major or minor. 
  • Earn a BA and MA in about 5 years through our accelerated graduate program (for qualified students).
  • Participate in a 3+3 B.A./law degree with Northern Illinois University.

Degree: BA

Completion time: 39 hours

Internships:

Numerous internship opportunities exist, including Congressional offices and campaigns, law offices, city managers, non-profits, and Washington, D.C. internships. Learn more about internships by going to the main Political Science webpage (www.eiu.edu/polisci) and clicking the internships tab. Students interested in pre-law internships should contact our Pre-Law advisor, Dr. Karen Swenson (kbswenson@eiu.edu), while students interested in all other Political Science internships should contact our Internship Coordinator, John Morris (jsmorris@eiu.edu). 

Resources

- Program Information in EIU Catalog

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Freshmen

First-year students can get involved in Political Science coursework and activities right away! Many of our students enroll in introductory courses, such as American Government, International Relations, Public Policy, and Political Theory. Our non-partisan Political Science Association hosts speakers and events throughout the year, and welcomes first-year students. You can also enroll in the Model Illinois Government and Moot Court simulations in your first year. Annual department events, like the fall picnic and spring awards ceremony, are great ways to connect with classmates and faculty. 

Transfer

Transfer students can take advantage of so many opportunities to develop and grow at EIU! Be sure to consider our government simulations, Model Illinois Government or Moot Court--both are great skill-builders, and a great way to meet classmates. Transfer students can also get involved with the non-partisan Political Science Association, which hosts speakers and events throughout the year. Your academic advisor will offer personalized mentoring for course selection and professional plans. Annual department events, like the fall picnic and spring awards ceremony are great ways to connect with classmates and faculty.

Name Type
Political Science Major
International Studies in Political Science Option (Undergrad)
Civic and Nonprofit Leadership Option (Undergrad)
Political Science Minor
Civic and Nonprofit Leadership Minor

First-year students can get involved in Political Science coursework and activities right away! Many of our students enroll in introductory courses, such as American Government, International Relations, Public Policy, and Political Theory. Our non-partisan Political Science Association hosts speakers and events throughout the year, and welcomes first-year students. You can also enroll in the Model Illinois Government and Moot Court simulations in your first year. Annual department events, like the fall picnic and spring awards ceremony, are great ways to connect with classmates and faculty. 

Dr. Melinda Mueller

Coleman Hall 2341
Email: mamueller@eiu.edu
URL: https://www.eiu.edu/polisci/