About the Majors
Political Science is a social science concerned with the description and analysis of political, and especially governmental, institutions and processes. Increasingly, the emphasis is being placed on how governments deal with specific policy problems, such as war and peace, poverty, crime, education, energy, pollution, or intergroup relations, and on the factors that affect these problems. The study of political science provides one with the concepts, theories and methods necessary to analyze these policy problems scientifically. Because of the complexities of modern legislation and current political changes, political science is considered an essential component of a broad education for today's world.
The Michigan State Political Science Department offers four majors, each with different academic programs and requirements. Please explore these options:
At Michigan State, Political Science has been divided into the following subfields: American politics, international politics, comparative politics, public administration and public policy, and political thought. Each of these has its own particular educational and career implications. You can select courses from any of these areas throughout your program; we hope you take advantage and tailor your education to your specific preferences and interests.
We appreciate your interest in our department!
