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Why Study Political Science?
Studying Political Science at Trinity means engaged discussion, real-world application, and close faculty mentorship, with graduates ready to lead, analyze, and influence in public, private, and global arenas.
Engage Big Questions
Examine power, democracy, justice, public policy, and global affairs through discussion-driven courses that challenge you to think critically.
Learn Beyond the Classroom
Build experience through internships, faculty research, Model United Nations, study abroad, and other hands-on opportunities.
Develop Skills That Travel
Strengthen your writing, analysis, and communication skills, valuable assets in law, government, business, advocacy, and many other fields.
It’s a good fit for you if you:
- Enjoy debating ideas and exploring complex issues.
- Want to understand how political systems and institutions work.
- Are interested in law, government, public policy, advocacy, or international affairs.
- Like research, writing, and evidence-based argumentation.
The Political Science Major (B.A.)
Develop a deeper understanding of political systems while building the analytical and communication skills needed to influence public conversations and solve real-world problems. Coursework connects political theory with contemporary issues at the local, national, and global levels.
In-Demand Skills
- Policy analysis and strategic thinking
- Research design and political inquiry
- Persuasive writing and public communication
- Critical evaluation of political institutions
- Professional presentation and advocacy skills
Curriculum:
You’ll complete 46 credit hours in the areas of political theory and institutional analysis, with advanced electives and hands-on experiential learning opportunities.
This major pairs well with minors or second majors across economics, international studies, and communication.
The Political Science Minor
18 Credit Hours | 1 to 1.5 semesters of coursework
Deepen Your Political Understanding, Bolster Your Leadership Résumé
Add political perspective to your primary field of study. The Political Science minor helps you understand institutions, policy, and governance while strengthening your analytical and communication skills.
Why Add the Minor?
Whether you're studying business, economics, history, international studies, communication, or another discipline, the minor provides valuable context for understanding how decisions shape organizations and societies.
Where This Can Take You
Political Science prepares you to analyze complex problems, communicate effectively, and understand how decisions shape institutions and communities. Graduates apply these skills across law, government, public affairs, international organizations, business, and graduate study.
Law, Public Policy, and Advocacy
Build the research, writing, and analytical skills that form the foundation of legal and policy careers. Graduates pursue law school, policy analysis, public affairs, and advocacy work across the public and private sectors.
Government and Public Service
Learn how institutions function, how policies are developed, and how leaders address public challenges. Graduates work in local, state, national, and international government organizations.
International Affairs and Global Leadership
Develop a deeper understanding of global politics, diplomacy, and international systems. Coursework in comparative politics and international relations prepares students to work across cultures and borders.
Research, Communications, and Graduate Study
Strengthen your ability to investigate complex issues, synthesize information, and communicate ideas clearly. These skills support careers in journalism, public relations, nonprofit leadership, research, and advanced academic study.
Get Your Questions Answered
Students interested in the Political Science major or minor are encouraged to:
Talk with their academic adviser. Explore introductory courses. Review the course catalog for detailed requirements. For advising questions, contact the Department of Political Science.