Bachelor [Political Science] From San Diego State University

Our majors are encouraged to investigate the diversity of political institutions and practices cross-nationally, and to consider the changes occurring as a result of the increasing globalization of politics and problems.

Aristotle called the study of politics "the master science." Human beings live in communities governed by rules that affect their commerce, their rights, and their personal levels of well-being. Students who become political science majors will learn about who creates the rules by which people are governed, the attitude and behavior of leaders and members of the public which cause certain decisions to be made, and how these decisions affect such values as liberty, equality, welfare and justice.

Political science is concerned with contemporary public affairs, problems in other political systems and contemporary international politics, as well as with historical growth, evolution, and decline of various types of governments. Our majors are encouraged to investigate the diversity of political institutions and practices cross-nationally, and to consider the changes occurring as a result of the increasing globalization of politics and problems.

Career Opportunities

Our undergraduate and postgraduate students go on to careers in government, law, public service and advocacy, education, business, and international agencies. Some of our students have pursued teaching careers at the secondary level. Others have worked for the federal government in areas such as intelligence, foreign affairs, environmental protection, and budget and computer administration. Opportunities often exist with state and local governments, on the staffs of national, state and local legislators, in market research, with lobbyists for trade or policy organizations, or with the press. Finally, many of our students pursue further degrees, especially in law and pubic policy analysis.