Suggested Programs for Political Science Majors
As one of the most flexible and applicable majors for study abroad, political science is a good match for dozens—or hundreds—of study abroad options. For this reason, you may find it is less difficult to find a program than it is to narrow down your options to a manageable list. Here are some points to consider:
- Do you have a specialized interest in international relations? Comparative politics? Area studies? Global and international studies? Peace and conflict studies?
- Do you have another major or minor that is less flexible and might help you narrow down your options? You may want to start there.
- Are you looking into internship possibilities? You can search by those.
- Are you trying to build develop skills or experiences that may help you in your eventual job search? You can consider this.
By no means is this a comprehensive list of programs for political science majors, but these are some solid suggestions:
Selected Programs with Political Internships
| # | Program | Country | Application |
|---|---|---|---|
1 |
Scottish Parliament Internship, UC Center EdinburghTake part in meaningful and influential work interning full-time with a Member of Scottish Parliament (MSP). This is a rare opportunity to work in a fast-paced government environment as an undergraduate and assist in matters ranging from national legislation to local development. You will spend 25 hours per week with your MSP learning invaluable skills and enhancing your political knowledge with firsthand experience. |
Scotland (United Kingdom) | |
2 |
Irish Parliament Internship, Institute of Public Administration, DublinExperience Ireland's politics and culture from within its governing body in a highly focused internship with a member of the Irish parliament or with an NGO affiliated with the European Union. In addition to courses in society, politics, modern history, and literature, you will gain real-world experience carrying out research, drafting press releases, or corresponding with constituents on local matters. |
Ireland | |
3 |
Global & International Studies, University of GenevaThis program is designed to give you the opportunity to study Political Science in the world's center of international governance. You will select from a set curriculum of interdisciplinary courses that cover issues of global concern and include field trips to the many Geneva-based organizations such as the United Nations, the World Trade Organization, and more. |
Switzerland | |
4 |
Australian Universities: Australian National Univ.The School of Politics and International Relations is one of the best in Australia. Students have the opportunity to participate in research internships through the innovative Australian National Internships Program or ANIP. ANIP is the only program that offers Australian Commonwealth Parliamentary internships. Additionally, there is a wide range of political science courses focusing on everything from Australasian Politics to Genocide Studies. |
Australia |
Selected Programs with Politics Coursework as a Primary Focus
| # | Program | Country | Application |
|---|---|---|---|
1 |
London School of Economics & Political ScienceSub-disciplines: European Politics, International Relations, Political TheoryLearn alongside leaders in finance and politics this summer at one of the world's most highly regarded universities. Faculty are drawn from various departments to provide instruction in a program track focused on International Relations, Government and Society, with strong offerings in political economics. Outside of classes, which are held in the historic heart of London, you will have the opportunity to explore the city through organized cultural excursions. |
England (United Kingdom) | |
2 |
Political Science, Sciences PoSub-disciplines: American Politics, Comparative Politics, European Politics, International Relations, Political TheoryThis is an elite and highly selective political science institution that offers courses in both English and French with a special emphasis on new Europe. Distinguished professionals and researchers teach courses in the fields of political science and international relations—so you will be exposed to the most current political debates, theories, and events. |
France |
Selected Programs Focusing on Global & International Studies
| # | Program | Country | Application |
|---|---|---|---|
1 |
Global & International Studies, Fudan UniversityStudy globalization from a Chinese perspective in the exhilarating metropolis of Shanghai. Interactive courses are taught by UC and visiting faculty from around the world, and internship opportunities are available. Past courses have focused on the political economy of China, conflict resolution, and the history of diplomacy in modern China. |
China | |
2 |
Global & International Studies, Meiji Gakuin Univ.The Global and International Studies program combines coursework, project-based research, and field trips to provide a well-rounded view of Japan and current global challenges. Past courses include seminars in global studies, minority issues, and the international court and conflict. Research, internships, and independent study are also available. |
Japan | |
3 |
Global & International Studies, University of GenevaThis program is designed to give you the opportunity to study Political Science in the world's center of international governance. You will select from a set curriculum of interdisciplinary courses that cover issues of global concern and include field trips to the many Geneva-based organizations such as the United Nations, the World Trade Organization, and more. |
Switzerland |
Selected Exchange & International School Programs with Strong Political Science Offerings
| # | Program | Country | Application |
|---|---|---|---|
1 |
English Universities: Univ. of ManchesterSub-disciplines: Comparative Politics, European Politics, International Relations, Political TheoryEnjoy a wide range of courses in politics at the University of Manchester. For those interested in law school, you can take legal courses through the Pre-Law Pathway for U.S. Students. Additionally, Manchester offers a course in leadership through the Study Abroad plus Leadership and Service program. The department has a long and distinguished history in research and is one of the largest and strongest political science groupings in the U.K. |
England (United Kingdom) | |
2 |
Thammasat Univ.Sub-disciplines: American Politics, Comparative Politics, International Relations, Political TheoryEvolving relationships of various economic sectors, political factions, and Thailand's socio-cultural landscape set the backdrop for engaging studies in politics and international relations. This program offers a wonderful opportunity for you to study abroad and advance in your major using theoretical approaches and case studies in Bangkok. Enterprising students can secure internships and research opportunities. |
Thailand | |
3 |
Lund Univ.Sub-disciplines: European Politics, International Relations, Political TheoryCourses at Lund University give you the opportunity to study Scandinavian, European, and Middle Eastern politics. Special area studies courses designed for international students cover global issues of contemporary interest. You may take first year graduate-level courses for upper-division credit provided you have the appropriate background. |
Sweden | |
4 |
National Autonomous Univ. of Mexico (UNAM)Sub-disciplines: Comparative Politics, International Relations, Latin American Politics, Political TheoryNote language of instruction: Spanish Immerse yourself in lively Mexico City while you gain insights on Mexico-North American relations, the development policy of Mexico, student social movements, and much more. Professionally and academically, the city is an exceptional setting for internships, research, independent study, and projects in government ministries and NGOs. |
Mexico | |
4 |
Chilean Universities: Pontifical Catholic Univ. of Chile, SantiagoSub-disciplines: Comparative Politics, International Relations, Latin American Politics, Political TheoryNote language of instruction: Spanish Immerse yourself in the rich political landscape of Santiago, Chile. You can take courses such as Political Corruption in Latin America, Migrants and Refugees, and Humanitarian Work. The UCEAP Chile Study Center offers a variety of internship opportunities for political science majors in fields including human rights, public policy, and social services. |
Chile |