Are you interested in American politics? International affairs? Critical issues such as public policy, globalization, immigration, terrorism, the environment, civil rights, political development, or foreign policy? Theories of ideal government and how power and resources are allocated in society? Do you want to study these subjects and pursue a career in them? If so, you should consider political science as a major. Political science is the study of governments, public policies, and political behavior. Political science uses both humanistic perspectives and scientific skills to examine the United States and all countries and regions of the world.
We offer four specializations (American Government & Politics, International Affairs, Legal Studies, and Public Administration & Policy) in order to help you achieve your personal, career, and educational goals. Regardless of specialization, political science graduates can expect ample career opportunities ranging from teacher to politician to nonprofit agencies. Government agencies at the local, state, and federal levels are always seeking individuals capable of analyzing complex issues (critical thinking) and understanding the machinations of government and the public sector. Additionally, we sponsor the Model United Nations program/club, which provides an excellent opportunity for students to learn valuable negotiating and debate skills, along with the potential for travel to conferences nationwide.
For additional information or to declare the major, please contact any political science faculty member or Dr. Justin Moeller (jmoeller@wtamu.edu), Political Science Program Director.
Political Science Student Profile
Meet Biak Nung, a senior in the Political Science program! Learn how Biak's experiences in and out of the classroom prepared him for future success.
Meet our Faculty
We have faculty experts on campaigns and elections, state and local governments, the United States Presidency, political violence and extremeism, and the United States Supreme Court.
Get Involved
If you’re looking to combine professional with social activities, political science majors have almost unlimited opportunities to contribute to campus life. Find your people and meet up for fun, as well as the chance to network among yourselves and with guest speakers.
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Study in Amazing Places
We live in a globally connected world. Step outside your comfort zone and learn how other cultures live, study, and pursue politics.
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Get to Work
There’s no better way to pad your resumé than to show practical work experience. Each semester, agencies, legislative offices, organizations, and campaigns come to us seeking qualified students who want to set themselves apart from the pack. Work. Learn. Get paid. It doesn’t get much better.
Learn MoreCommon Career Opportunities
- ■Lawyer
- ■Teacher
- ■Campaign Staffer
- ■Legislative Researcher
- ■Paralegal
- ■Lobbyist
- ■Journalist
- ■Foreign Service Officer
- ■Law Enforcement Officer
- ■Legislative Assistant
- ■Government Staff
- ■Consultant
- ■Management/Data Analyst
- ■Foreign Service Officer
- ■Policy Analyst
- ■Legal Assistant
- ■Peace Corps/Vista Worker
- ■Public Opinion Expert
- ■Politician
- ■International Trade Specialist
- ■Probation/Parole Officer
- ■Non-Profit Advocate
- ■Social Services Administrator
- ■International Aid Worker
What You Will Learn
- ■Informed and savvy citizenship
- ■Critical thinking about politics and political ideas
- ■Comprehend major political philosophies and theories by explaining and assessing these theories in written and oral presentations and examinations
- ■Demonstrate a knowledge of the principles of scientific inquiry and of the fundamentals of research design and empirical analysis by classifying and assessing statistical data
- ■Understand the assumptions, methods, and analytical approaches used by the discipline of political science
- ■Understand politics and the political system of the United States and other countries
- ■Communicate professionally, both in person and in writing
- ■Problem solving
Career Close-Up
Median Wage (TX): $65,500
Median Wage (US): $107,420
Program Costs
