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Have a question about Political Science or want more information? Let us know.
The Department of Political Science studies governments, public policies and political processes, systems and behavior. Are you interested in American politics or international affairs? The formation of political identities and allegiances? Strategies of cooperation and conflict? Political theories of law and democracy? Gun control, immigration, the environment, civil rights? If so, you belong in political science, where you will learn to think critically and globally and acquire the skills necessary to be successful in the world.
Students in the BA program have the opportunity to specialize in one of eleven different areas, and students in the BS program take a sequence of methodology courses. In addition, students must obtain breadth by taking at least one course in each of the four traditional subfields of political science: American Politics, Comparative Politics, International Relations and Political Theory
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(614) 292-6961 (for appointments)
2140 Derby Hall
154 N. Oval Mall
klimpel.1@osu.edu
2140A Derby Hall
154 N. Oval Mall
kloss.8@osu.edu
(614) 292-6961 (for appointments)
2140 Derby Hall
154 N. Oval Mall
Hyeji Kim, Political Science, talks about why she chose her major and how to approach faculty in the department.
As a Political Science major, you can pursue one of two different degrees – a BA or a BS – based on your specific interests and career goals. The main difference between these programs is the BS degree’s emphasis on methodological training, making this degree particularly useful if you are interested in careers requiring data analysis or are pursuing a second STEM-related major or minor.
A major in Political Science prepares students for careers in law, local, state and federal government, agencies dealing with national security, foreign policy, business, consulting, lobbying, journalism, international development, and education. The skills you will gain in research and writing, data analysis, and critical thinking are vital to any career path.