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Political Science

College of Liberal Arts & Sciences

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What is Political Science?

In this major, you’ll study policy in nations, between nations, and in non-governmental settings. Students delve into questions of power, conflict, cooperation, and diversity in the U.S. and across the world. With these questions, you'll learn about decision-making and disagreement management. Instruction is divided into five areas: American politics, comparative politics, public policy, political theory, and international relations. Your coursework will teach you how to gather, analyze, and interpret data and evidence. You will also learn how to write and communicate with confidence. In your classes, you'll learn how to collaborate on projects. You can choose from seven concentrations:

  • General Political Science
  • Citizen Politics
  • Civic Leadership
  • International Relations
  • Law and Power
  • Public Policy and Democratic Institutions
  • World Politics

Career Options

  • City management
  • Congressional staffing
  • Data analysis
  • Diplomacy
  • Education
  • Elected positions
  • Human resources
  • Industrial relations
  • Journalism
  • National security analysis
  • Urban or logistical planning

Post-Graduation Success1

95% employed or continuing education

42% employed after graduation

52% attending graduate school

1% volunteering

$49,836 average starting annual income

Sample employer destinations: Alight Solutions (2), Applegate & Thorne-Thomsen (2), Illinois House of Representatives (2) View All

Sample grad school destinations: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, University of Illinois Chicago, Northern Illinois University View All

Review Criteria

First-Year Major-Specific Criteria

  • Demonstrated understanding of and interest in the major

View All Review Criteria

Transfer Criteria

Transfer Handbook

Graduation & Retention2

3.8 years to degree

96% first-year retention rate

76% four-year graduation rate

81% six-year graduation rate

Annual Program Costs3

Illinois Resident

  • Tuition: $12,992
  • Fees: $5,054
  • Expenses: $18,884
  • Total: $36,930

Non-Resident

  • Tuition: $33,344
  • Fees: $5,054
  • Expenses:$19,224
  • Total: $57,622

International

  • Tuition: $35,872
  • Fees: $5,054
  • Expenses: $19,224
  • Total: $60,150

Related Majors

None

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