If you are fascinated by the world of politics, government, and lawmaking, then Ball State’s major in political science is right for you. Taught by dedicated faculty who are experts in their field, our program allows you to choose from three options political science, economics, and international studies to better focus your expertise.

You will graduate prepared for career success in a diversity of fields, including law, government, public administration, international organizations (such as the United Nations), nonprofit organizations (such as CARE), and education.

What You Will Learn

Learning outcomes for this program include how to:

• make sense of the world
• increase your research and communication skills
• increase your analytical and critical thinking skills
• craft persuasive arguments and hone your debate skills
• make a difference in your community

Program Benefits

• Breadth and Depth of Course Offerings
• Small Class Sizes
• Exciting Student Programs
• Robust Internship Program

Major Requirements

You will need to complete the University Core Curriculum required for all bachelor’s degree programs, as well as your major’s requirements. All political science majors take two required classes POLS 130 American National Government and POLS 210 Political Science Research Methods before taking courses tailored to their tracks.

Additional program requirements include:

• maintaining at least a 2.0 grade point average in departmental course work
• as a senior, completing a required capstone course: senior thesis, research seminar, or internship

Tracks

Political Science

Students on this track will study a wide variety of topics in domestic and international affairs. In doing so, students will learn to appreciate how individuals and institutions shape (and are shaped by) politics.

Economics

Students pursuing this track will study the interplay between economic systems and politics. In doing so, students will learn about markets, poverty, welfare, taxation, and economic transitions.

International Studies

Students on this track will study a wide variety of topics in domestic and international affairs. In doing so, students will learn to appreciate how individuals and institutions shape (and are shaped by) politics.

What Can You Do With a Degree in Political Science?

Our graduates frequently pursue careers as:

• campaign managers
• nonprofit workers
• polling or survey analysts
• city planners
• congressional office staff members
• political consultants
• International developer workers
• researchers for government agencies or think tanks
• journalists
• diplomatic officers
• conflict mediators
• lawyers