An undergraduate degree in Political Science gives you the tools to understand how governments, institutions, and societies function—and why they matter. As a student, you’ll explore topics such as democracy, international relations, public policy, law, and political theory, while also developing essential skills in analysis, research, and communication. The program combines broad training in key areas of political life with the flexibility to focus on the issues that inspire you most, from human rights and social justice to security, elections, or immigration policy. Along the way, you’ll engage in lively discussions, work closely with faculty, and gain experiences that connect classroom learning to real-world challenges.
Political Science is also one of the most versatile majors you can choose. Employers consistently value the critical thinking, problem-solving, and writing skills that political science graduates bring to the table. Whether your goal is a career in law, government, international organizations, advocacy, journalism, business, or education, the degree equips you with both the intellectual foundation and the practical tools to succeed. By pairing academic knowledge with hands-on opportunities like internships, study abroad, and research, political science prepares you not just for a job, but for leadership in a wide variety of fields.
Our program offers three specialized option choices for students, each involving a set of designated courses.
Public Administration: Turn your passion for politics and problem-solving into impact with the Public Administration option. This pathway equips you with the skills to lead in government, nonprofits, and community organizations—where decisions meet action. You’ll explore policy analysis, organizational leadership, budgeting, and public management, all while gaining hands-on experience that prepares you to tackle today’s biggest challenges. Whether you envision yourself managing city services, designing public policy, or driving change at the nonprofit level, this option empowers you to become a leader who makes a difference.
Prelegal Studies: Our Prelegal Studies option is designed for students who dream of practicing law, shaping public policy, or championing social change. You’ll develop the critical thinking, persuasive communication, and analytical skills that top law schools demand—all while exploring how politics, institutions, and legal systems shape our world. With specialized advising, tailored coursework, and opportunities for real-world experience, you’ll be prepared not just to enter law school—but to excel once you get there.
Global Politics: The Global Politics option takes you beyond borders to explore the power struggles, alliances, and ideas shaping the 21st century. From climate diplomacy to human rights, from great-power rivalries to grassroots movements, you’ll investigate the forces driving change in every corner of the globe. Through engaging courses, debates, and hands-on learning, you’ll sharpen your critical thinking, deepen your understanding of international dynamics, and gain the skills to thrive in careers across government, NGOs, media, and beyond. Whether you’re passionate about peace and security, global justice, or the future of democracy, this option equips you to not just study the world—but to help shape it.
Students can also pursue our General Option, which provides maximum flexibility in course selection, building on the four Foundations core courses that all students must complete.
More details on options and degree requirements: BA degree or a minor.
The American Political Science Association explains more about the discipline and career opportunities with a political science degree:
Alumni Profile: Sasha Perez
Sasha Pérez, a 2016 political science graduate, was elected at age 28 in November 2020 to the Alhambra City Council. In 2024, she was elected to the California State Senate, becoming its youngest current member.
Alumni Profile: Salvador Melendez
Salvador Melendez, a 2013 graduate, was elected to the Montebello City Council in November 2018 at age 28, becoming the youngest elected council member in Montebello’s history. He is currently serving a four-year term as the city's Mayor, concluding in December 2026.