Department of Political Science
Are you interested in law? Social justice? International relations? The world around you? If so, then political science is the right field of study at Saint Louis University for you.
Political Science Programs
The undergraduate and graduate programs in the SLU Department of Political Science provide students with an effective combination of knowledge, theory, and practical research and analytical skills to prepare them to make meaningful contributions to society. Inspired by our Catholic-Jesuit heritage, the department is committed to cultivating our students' abilities to think deeply, carefully and well about relations of power so that they can become engaged citizens who can grapple with some of the most important social justice problems of our time, from racism at home to war, persistent underdevelopment, and oppression abroad.
The department combines the best aspects of a liberal arts college and a top research university. The department is large enough to offer a wide range of classes but small enough that students get individual attention from faculty. Faculty are passionate about teaching and mentoring students, and students get hands-on experience working with faculty engaged in cutting-edge research that addresses pressing national and international issues. SLU's location in the heart of St. Louis allows students to understand first-hand the challenges of American cities through field research and internships. SLU's Madrid campus and many other study abroad opportunities open up the rest of the world. Coursework and co-curricular experiences broaden students' perspectives and prepare them for careers beyond SLU.
Political Science Degrees at SLU
Undergraduate Degrees
- Bachelor of Arts in Political Science
Concentrations are available in international affairs, public law and public policy. - Bachelor of Arts in International Studies
- Foreign Service Minor
- Global and Local Social Justice Minor
- International Studies Minor
- Law, Religion and Politics Minor
- Middle East Studies Minor
- Political Journalism Minor
- Political Science Minor
Accelerated Options
Graduate Degrees
- Master of Arts in Political Science and Public Affairs
Concentrations are available in American politics, international affairs, gender and politics, political theory, and public policy and administration. - Ph.D. in Public and Social Policy
- Juris Doctor/Master of Arts in Political Science and Public Affairs
Faculty
Department faculty excel in publishing, teaching and mentoring, service to the University, and securing external research grants. Recently, faculty have received National Science Foundation grants, Fulbright awards, published in top journals (American Political Science Review, Review of Politics, Public Opinion Quarterly, etc.), and received outstanding paper, article and dissertation awards and other national prizes. Faculty are also active in serving the University and the community and many have received teaching awards.
Careers and Opportunities
Our students engage and transform the world. As a student in the Department of Political Science, you will be prepared for careers in government, community organizations, international NGOs, media, the private sector and more. Political science and public affairs degrees provide students with marketable skills in empirical data analysis and practical problem-solving. International studies students are well-equipped to navigate across national and cultural boundaries. Our graduates also excel in graduate and professional study at even the most selective schools. Many students go on to attend top law schools, find ways to serve their communities by studying public administration, and pursue advanced degrees in foreign service or area studies in preparation for a global career.
Law School Preparation
Are you interested in law? Political science is one of the most popular majors for students interested in attending law school. Our department offers many opportunities for pre-law students.