Are you interested in the differences between political parties in the United States, in the tactics used by world leaders at they carry out foreign policy, in the meaning of freedom, or in the reason the government regulates the size of the holes in Swiss cheese? If so, a major in Political Science may be for you.

As a political science student at Alfred University, you will learn about the institutions that shape people’s lives. Studying American Politics, you will learn about the way people participate in political processes as they attempt to influence the decisions made by Congress, the courts, or a bureaucratic agency. In Comparative Politics, you will learn about how the practice and structure of politics varies from one country or region of the world to another. In Political Theory classes, you can study the ideas upon which various political systems—including the U.S. system—are based.

You may also pursue an internship during a semester in Washington, D.C., working for a Congressperson, a government agency, or another organization in the capital.

A political science major provides excellent preparation for graduate study. In addition, the major provides a background that is useful for those intending to enter government service, business, teaching, or journalism. Political Science is also frequently the major chosen by students wishing to pursue a career in law.