Political Science BA

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Our Political Science bachelor's degree means education for engaged citizenship.

Students in a Political Science class

Prepare for a career or advanced study in government, law, and beyond.

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Political Science is an interdisciplinary field encompassing elements of political theory, government, international relations, law, public policy and strategic communications. RIC's Political Science Program opens doors to careers in public affairs, governance, journalism and the nonprofit world. This discipline doesn’t just produce job seekers, but highly engaged and informed citizens. It's also one of the most common gateways to law school. 

High-Demand Political Science Careers

  • Lawyer
  • Foreign Service Officer
  • Legislative Aide
  • Policy Analyst
  • Journalist
  • Campaign Advisor

Why Earn a Political Science Bachelor's Degree at Rhode Island College?

  • Our Political Science degree program produces citizens who can evaluate information accurately, think critically and communicate effectively.
  • Political Science majors benefit from experiential learning opportunities that include internships in public affairs, state and local government, legal professions and more.
  • Our minors in political science and international NGOs and nonprofit studies enable students majoring in other disciplines to augment their education with experience in public affairs, policy and strategic communications.
  • Topics covered include: American government, global politics, research and writing, public policy, INGOS and nonprofits and media.
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We're thrilled that you're interested in Rhode Island College and we want to make sure that nothing stands in your way of pursuing a RIC degree. Just let us know how we can help you with your next steps.

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More Program Specifics

Understand the courses you’ll take, the curriculum requirements to meet, and the concepts you’ll gain mastery of. We also offer two related minor program options. Get the detailed information you’re looking for.

The RIC Advantage

Through RIC’s Washington Week/Congressional Internship Program, our students have the opportunity to intern for a week in a Rhode Island congressional office in Washington, D.C.

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Political Science Faculty

In a world where many of today’s students will wind up in a job that does not yet exist, the skills we teach give you the flexibility needed to adapt to a changing job environment.

Hear from a Student

Gianna DelMonico

Gianna DelMonico

“I had the most amazing professor and pre-law advisor in RIC Associate Professor of Political Science Tom Schmeling. He lit a fire in me.”

– Justice Studies Major, with Minors in Political Science and Philosophy

Bettering Rhode Island Communities

Program Details

Course Information

Course Requirements

Course Descriptions

General Education

All degree programs require the completion of one 3-4 credit course in each of the nine General Education categories and the completion of at least 40 total credits of General Education courses. The General Education Program provides a foundation for deeper study in a wide range of academic disciplines, enabling students to develop the skills and habits of mind necessary for full participation in an increasingly complex world.

General Education at RIC

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Program/Learning Goals

Upon completion of this program, students will have:

  • substantial knowledge of current political and governmental structures and processes in the United States
  • an understanding of current political and governmental structures and processes outside the United States
  • an understanding of influential thinkers and ideas that have shaped democratic values
  • an understanding of the difference between descriptive and normative theory as it applies to politics and government
  • the ability to recognize and assess evidence that supports or contradicts ideas
  • proficiency in the use technological resources such as the Internet, online data and library-based search engines
  • skill in writing papers with a clear thesis, organization and no distracting grammatical errors
  • applied what they have learned in class through active participation in politics and government through internships or other experiential settings
  • chosen a coherent set of courses within the major under the guidance of an advisor
  • received active guidance in selection of post-baccalaureate opportunities, including graduate schools, law schools, a range of governmental services and other employment

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Department of Political Science

The Department of Political Science oversees degree programs in political science, public administration, geography and a certificate program in international nongovernmental organizations.

Seth Dixon

Dr. Seth Dixon

Associate Professor