Political Science

Political science is the study of politics, public policy, government and related topics. This includes the investigation of political behavior, international relations, law, and political values. The coursework in political science provides students with knowledge and understanding of how government and politics affect their everyday lives and ultimately prepares students for careers in a variety of politics- or government-related professions.  

The Program

The political science program at North Dakota State University offers a number of avenues for the study of government. The curriculum in political science ensures that students graduate with a solid knowledge of key political science subfields, including American government and institutions, the legal system and Constitutional law, international relations, and comparative politics.  In addition to the many course offereings available at NDSU, students can draw upon many additional courses through Tri-College University (a consortium of NDSU, North Dakota State College of Science, Minnesota State Community and Technical College, Minnesota State University Moorhead and Concordia College).  The urban center of Fargo-Moorhead enables students to observe and participate in metropolitan judicial and governmental affairs.

Internship/Field Experience

The Department of Political Science & Public Policy has been very successful in helping students secure internships in local, state, and federal agencies where they can experience first-hand the functioning of government. NDSU students also regularly serve as interns for elected officials from North Dakota and Minnesota.  

Career Opportunities

One out of five persons in the United States today is employed by some level of government. The expansion of the public sector has created a vital need for thoughtful and active people who are professionally trained in government and in political science. The type of jobs available to NDSU political science graduates include policy analyst, budget analyst, lobbyist, legislative aide, state or federal program administration, city/county administration, positions in non-profit organizations, diplomatic service, and other careers. 

Political science students also regularly go on to attend law school and then pursue a legal profession.  NDSU political science students have attended law schools such as the University of North Dakota, the University of Minnesota, the University of Michigan, the University of Washington, Northwestern University, Duke, and George Washington University.  Still other NDSU political science students may elect to go on for graduate study in political science, public policy, or public administration and pursue advanced careers in public administration, regional planning, as researchers at think tanks, or as academicians.  

Extra-Curricular Activities

The Department of Political Science & Public Policy works closely with the Pre-Law Club, which is designed to provide students with information about law schools, entrance examinations and career opportunities in the field of law.

The Faculty

Thomas Ambrosio, Professor, Ph.D., 2000, University of Virginia

Nicholas Bauroth, Professor, Ph.D., 2003, Loyola University

Ethan Boldt, Assistant Professor, Ph.D. 2019, University of Georgia

Sarah Boonstoppel, Assistant Professor, Ph.D., 2014, University of Maryland

Steven Briggs, Associate Professor, Ph.D., 2007, University of Nebraska -- Omaha

Kjersten Nelson, Associate Professor, Ph.D., 2009, University of Minnesota

Daniel Pemstein, Associate Professor, Ph.D., 2010, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Plan of Study

Please note this is a sample plan of study and not an official curriculum.  Actual student schedules for each semester will vary depending on start year, education goals, applicable transfer credit, and course availability. Students are encouraged to work with their academic advisor on a regular basis to review degree progress and customize an individual plan of study.