Political Science

Political Science Degree Requirements

Requirements offer a broad perspective on how to understand the behavior of citizens and nations and how to make informed decisions in political and governing settings.The curriculum imparts key protocols and methods in the following core areas of the field:

• American Government and Politics
• Comparative Politics
• Constitutional Law
• International Relations
• Political Theory
• Public Administration
• Public Policy
• Quantitative Methods

A rich education in domestic and global historical contexts and advanced special topic courses in political science, legal studies, and related areas ensures that Political Science majors wield specialized knowledge, while general education and liberal arts core courses strengthen students' career readiness for any field they are drawn to.

Courses

Courses you may take as a Political Science major include:

• PS 303: American Foreign Policy
• PS 327: Environmental Law
• PS 357: Health Law and Policy
• PS 367: Judicial Politics
• PS 371: American Constitutionalism (I): Structures of Government 

4+1 Program Leading to Master’s in Public Policy and Administration

Political Science majors at York are confidently equipped to pursue the online Master of Public Policy and Administration (MPPA) in the 4+1 accelerated format, where students earn both the bachelor’s in Political Science and master’s degree in five years total (one year faster than typical). York’s MPPA program stands out for its sponsorship of a scholar in residence each year.

Admissions and Aid

If you’re excited about contributing to political campaigns, pursuing advanced studies in political science, or careers in public service across different sectors, take the first step with a comprehensive Political Science degree program.

Review undergraduate admissions information and learn about costs and financial aid at York College.

Earn a B.A. in Political Science at York College of Pennsylvania

The breadth, depth, and variety of courses in the Political Science major at YCP, coupled with practical experience in nearby related organizations and government agencies, ensures our students get closer to rewarding careers in the public sector and beyond.

To get started today, request more information or start your application.

Career Preparation Beyond Politics

Political Science majors succeed in settings ranging from government agencies to election campaigns, advocacy organizations, educational institutions, foreign service, and private industry. Our graduates work for the U.S. Government, the George Washington University, the Legislative Reference Bureau, the Literacy Council of York County, the State of New Jersey Judiciary, and VanGuard Group, Inc., and have even run in local elections for legislative office.

Political Science majors succeed in career pathways including:

• Economic development analysis
• Government and public services sector consulting
• Legislative staff in Congress or state government
• Municipal government official
• Policy analysis
• Project management and administration

Graduates also pursue law school and become attorneys or pursue advanced academic careers in policy studies or political research. Master’s degree programs in public policy and administration can lead to high-level roles in public service. Other careers for Political Science students include sales, media and broadcasting, and writing and journalism, as foundational historical, sociological, and communication skills are highly transferable.

Salary Outcomes in Politics and Government

Careers in political science and government offer some of the highest levels of job security and growth, with myriad opportunities to serve in over 85,000 state or federal government jurisdictions in the United States. 
Whether they work as election judges, poll monitors, grassroots organizers, or in government offices or nonprofit settings, Political Science majors can go on to earn above-average median annual salaries. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), entry-level positions for Political Science students can look like the following:

• Fundraisers—$66,490/year
• Public relations specialists—$69,780/year
• Legislators—$68,140/year
• Market research analysts—$76,950/year

As their career progresses, graduates may move from helping campaigns to managing them or pursue advanced training to become a political scientist or lawyer, which requires further education. The BLS reports that public relations and fundraising managers earn an average of $132,870 annually, and political scientists report yearly earnings of $139,380.

Political Science Internship Opportunities

Political Science majors at York College can participate in up to two semester-long internships that count toward degree requirements. The Center for Career Development assists students in locating and achieving the internships of their choice. Our students have also participated in the Pennsylvania General Assembly’s Legislative Fellowship Program, a semester-long, full-time paid position working on a legislative committee in the PA House of Representatives.

Study Abroad and Project-Based Learning

York College's many study abroad opportunities align directly with the B.A. in Political Science curriculum. Specifically, students can take courses in international service learning or travel to nearly any continent for coursework or practical experience through these opportunities.

On campus, students have opportunities to participate in the Model United Nations Simulation, the European Union Simulation, and other hands-on projects that involve teamwork and leadership in research and other areas.

Public Policy Research Institute

All Political Science majors can pursue independent research study courses as part of the degree. They can also apply for scholarship funding through the Gladfelter Fellows Program. This award funds a two-semester independent study endeavor related to innovation and problem-solving in government and public policy.

Learn From Experienced Faculty

York College's Political Science faculty are knowledgeable practitioners and researchers in government and politics who possess real-world understandings of the subjects they teach. For courses in regional and international government and politics, students receive instruction from professors who have direct experience in the specific areas of the world about which they teach.

Build Essential Skills with a B.A. in Political Science

The Political Science program equips students with a diverse set of skills attractive in today’s global society, including:

• Discursive skills to explore political and ethical theories and address complex political and social issues
• In-depth knowledge of American government, state and local governments, and international political systems
• Application of political theory and comparative politics principles in real-world contexts, including public administration, policy analysis, and law
• Enhanced understanding of foreign policy, international organizations, and political economy
• Skills in conducting political research and analyzing political data and phenomena through courses in quantitative analysis
• Improved written and verbal communication skills preparing for roles in public policy, law, and media

Minor in American Politics and Related Programs

The minor program in American Politics provides valuable insights that enhance any field of study or career goal. If you want to add Political Science courses to a different specialized area, check out our related bachelor’s degree and minor programs:

• Bachelor of Arts in Intelligence Analysis: Regional and Global Studies
• Bachelor of Arts in International Relations
• Legal Studies Minor
• Public Administration Minor

Yes, political science is a highly useful major. It equips students with critical thinking, analytical, and communication skills, which are valuable in various fields such as law, journalism, public policy, international relations, and business. Additionally, a political science major provides a deep understanding of governmental systems, political behavior, and public policies, making it an excellent foundation for careers in government and public administration.

Some students may find the extensive reading, writing, and analysis of complex political systems and theories challenging. However, those who are passionate about understanding political dynamics and engaging in debates on public policy will find the political science major to be highly rewarding and intellectually stimulating.

A bachelor’s degree in political science opens doors to dynamic roles like policy analyst, public relations specialist, legislative assistant, journalist, or nonprofit worker. Graduates can also become effective political consultants, lawyers, or diplomats after gaining experience or specialized education. Each of these positions leverages the research, analytical, and communication skills developed during the political science curriculum to contribute to multiple sectors, not just government.