Study political science at the University of Mary Washington, positioned midway between Washington, D.C., and Virginia’s capital city, Richmond. You’ll learn the theory of political science and connect it with the real world through on-site learning, internships, and involvement in political events. Become career-ready through work with UMW’s Center for Leadership and Media Studies.
Degree Awarded
Students majoring in Political Science who complete all requirements earn the degree of Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Political Science.
Areas of Study
Learn how political systems function through courses ranging from urban politics and government to international politics. Choose from courses covering the American presidency, the U.S. federal judiciary, political parties and elections, metropolitan problems, American civil liberties, foreign policy, international governments, international relations, politics of developing countries, theory and practice of revolution, women and politics, mass media politics, and more.
Internships
UMW students have had internships in many congressional and other governmental offices in Washington, D.C., Richmond, and Fredericksburg, and at such organizations as the World Bank, the American Enterprise Institute, Common Cause, ABC News, and Washington Monthly. No major in this department has ever sought and failed to receive an internship.
Honors
To graduate with honors, you’ll maintain at least a 3.4 grade-point average overall and in the major. You’ll conduct an independent study and write and defend an honors thesis. Some recent examples: “Counterinsurgency in the Philippines,” “The Shining Path in Peru,” “Independent Peace Movements in Eastern Europe,” “The Latin American Debt Crisis,” and “Conservatism in America.”
Requirements
Major Requirements
The political science major requires 36 credits including introductory courses and at least one writing-intensive class. You’ll choose additional courses from the fields of American politics, comparative politics, international relations, and political theory, and you’ll pursue your interests in-depth through departmental electives.
Minor Requirements
The Department of Political Science and International Affairs offers a minor in security and conflict studies.
Scholarships
Scholarships are available specifically for political science majors, but you can also apply for numerous scholarships available to students in all majors.