Political Science

Political Science at St. Mary’s

The Department of Political Science at St. Mary’s University educates for the enduring values of social justice, equality, diversity, community and the common good in global, national and local arenas. By applying theory to practical situations and the inventive use of research, students learn to understand and propose humane solutions to public needs and problems. 

In the context of a Catholic and Marianist university, students and faculty work to experience and enhance the skills necessary for an active and effective life in democratic and transitioning societies. Political Science faculty and students at St. Mary’s share a common purpose — to inspire the civic conscience of the University community. 

Students of all majors may take courses in Political Science to fulfill their elective or Core Curriculum requirements. Students interested in attending law school are encouraged to take Political Science courses. 

• Degree Plans

  Students can choose between four degrees in Political Science:

  B.A. in Political Science
  Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with Concentration in Peace Studies
  Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with Concentration in Security Studies
  Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with Teacher Certification in Social Studies (4-8)

  St. Mary’s also offers two minors focused in Political Science:

  Minor in Political Science
  Minor in Public Careers

  Students can also pursue a 5-year combined degree option:

  Combined Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Master of Arts (various)

• Courses

  Course areas include:

  Civic engagement* 
  Comparative politics 
  Constitutional law* 
  Gender politics 
  Global affairs 
  Government leadership 
  Judicial process* 
  Language and power* 
  Latin American politics 
  Law, institutional powers and fundamental rights* 
  Legislative process* 
  Public administration* 
  Social justice* 

  *Denotes course area is well-suited for preparing for law school 

  course Catalog

What can I do with a degree in Political Science?

Career and Internship Opportunities

Students can earn course credit through a variety of internship opportunities. Students have interned with entities such as the Department of State, local law firms, City Council and the Texas Legislature, among many others.

Political Science majors have gone on to careers as: 

Analysts 
Communication directors 
Educators 
Elected officials 
Foreign service officers 
Immigration and customs officers 
Journalists 
Lawyers 
Legislators 
Lobbyists 
Mediators 
Researchers 

Law School Options

St. Mary’s University offers a Pre-Law Program for undergraduate students interested in pursuing law school and law-related careers. Students in the Political Science major may qualify for the Nelson Wolff Law Early Admission Program, which offers motivated, talented undergraduate students who plan to attend law school the opportunity to complete a bachelor’s degree and a law degree from the St. Mary’s University School of Law in less time. 

The Guaranteed Law School Admission Program guarantees St. Mary’s graduates admission to the School of Law, if they meet certain criteria.

Outside the Classroom

Student Clubs and Organizations

Students majoring in Political Science can join the St. Mary’s chapter of Pi Sigma Alpha, the national political science honor society.

Faculty

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