Political Science Major

Your gateway to careers in law, government and non-profits

With the Political Science major from Carlow University, you will explore questions about power: What it is, where does it come from, who exercises it, and how it is legitimized and challenged?

You will study governments, public policy and the political behavior of individuals and institutions. You will consider issues of control, freedom, gender and influence as you study and assess the manner in which power and authority have impacted the development and organization of societies, relations between and among nations, and the management of war and conflict. 

A degree  in Political Science provides you with a solid grasp of the American political system and other political systems within the context of global forces, international conflicts, social movements, ideological systems and diversity.

Political Science major curriculum

To complete a bachelor’s in political science, you will take courses in each of the four subfields of the discipline: American government, political theory, international relations and comparative politics; two courses in research methods; and a capstone project. Courses emphasize reflection, discussion, deliberation and intensive interactions between faculty members and students.

As a Political Science major you will complete foundational courses, a research methods sequence and 9 credits of elective courses in the discipline

Carlow’s political science program participates in the 3/3 BA/JD programs with the University of Pittsburgh and Duquesne University Schools of Law and the Early Assurance Program with the University of Pittsburgh’s Graduate School of Public and  International Affairs.

Quick Facts

• Study American politics, comparative politics and international relations
• Engage in discourse regarding the core political science concepts, organizations and models
• Employ both quantitative and qualitative methods to examine relevant issues

Alternate degree completion options

3-Year Degree

Finish your bachelor’s degree in three years by following a 3-year academic plan. Courses are taken across fall, spring and summer terms with summer courses completely online. When applying, indicate your interest in the 3-Year Degree option.

Accelerated

Fast track your way to a master’s by taking graduate courses as an undergraduate student. Course credits count toward both degrees. Apply for the accelerated option after your sophomore year.

Admission requirements and application process