Department of Political Science & Public Policy

This is an archived copy of the 2021-22 catalog. To access the most recent version of the catalog, please visit http://catalog.ndsu.edu.

Undergraduate Programs of Study

  • Political Science (major, minor)
  • Pre-Law (minor)

Degrees Offered

  • Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)
  • Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

Department Description

Our department serves approximately 100 undergraduate students. The department offers bachelor's degrees and minors in political science and a minor in pre-law.  Political science students also have the option to pursue an emphasis in pre-law or public service.

About the Faculty

Our eight faculty members in the department represent a wide array of expertise, including international relations, American government, public policy, constitutional law, the politics of gender, comparative politics, and more. Across the board, the department faculty are prolific scholars and have involved students in their research.

Career Paths for our Students

Political science majors gain analytical skills, administrative competence, and communication abilities that are valued in a wide spectrum of potential careers in federal, state, and local governments; law; business; international organizations; non-profit organizations; campaign management and polling; journalism; pre-collegiate education; electoral politics; research; and college and university teaching.

In a recent list from Bankrate.com, political science was ranked in the top third of degrees in terms of making a living after graduation. This was top amongst AHSS college majors.

Moreover, NDSU Political Science offers annual study abroad experiences. Recent programs have taken students to the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Belgium, and Italy. Political Science internships provide hands-on experience in government, political parties and campaigns, legal offices, or private organizations engaged in politics or public policy. The Upper Midwest Public Policy Institute offers students opportunities to conduct research about politics and public policy.

In sum, the content knowledge, the analytical and communication skills, and the capacity for critical thinking (all of which are delivered and nurtured through our programs) prepare students for a multitude of career paths.

Clubs and Internships

The department is home to the three student organizations:

  • Political Science Club – Organizes debates, speaking events, and other events to better engage the campus community with politics and current events
  • Pre-Law Club - Designed to provide students with information about law schools, entrance examinations, and career opportunities in the field of law
  • Pi Sigma Alpha – National Political Science honor society