Why Major in Political Science?
In an increasingly interconnected world, it’s more important than ever to have a clear understanding of the systems that govern our lives. A major in political science gives you the tools to participate fully in the democratic process and help shape policies at the local or global level.
At Belmont, you’ll have many opportunities to immerse yourself in the political system. Full-term internships with government offices or agencies give you an up-close look at how government works. In-depth research seminars give you the chance to dive deep into a subject of interest. And study abroad trips to Germany, Australia and beyond immerse you in the culture and politics of another country.
When you graduate, you’ll be ready to add your voice to the political conversation. Whether you choose a career in government, advocacy, law, teaching or something else, your Belmont degree will empower you to make a difference.
What You'll Learn
You’ll begin with a strong grounding in principles of government, economics and political theory. You’ll also dig into research methods, American political institutions and international relations.
Then, you'll choose electives that support your interests and goals. If you have a passion for global affairs, you might take Politics of Asia, International Law, or Global Conflict and Violence. If you’re planning a career in American government, you might opt for Electoral Politics, American Public Policy or Presidential Nominations. You can also pursue a more general path with courses like Foundations of Democracy, Modern Ideologies or Game Theory and Public Choice.
Career Possibilities
With a major in political science, your career options will be limitless. If you want to work in government, you'll be equipped for legislative, electoral or administrative positions at all levels. If you have your eye on law school or another graduate degree, a Belmont degree will strengthen your application.
Political science majors go on to careers both in and out of politics including:
- Attorney
- Legislative aide
- Political strategist
- Policy analyst
- Lobbyist
- Public relations executive
- Government relations specialist
Jace Wilder Selected to Represent Southern Regional Voices
A political science major, Wilder was named to the inaugural Freedom Fellowship Program cohort of GLSEN, the leading national organization working to guarantee safe and affirming education for LGBTQ+ students.
Program Details
Curriculum
The political science major leads to either a bachelor of arts or a bachelor of science. It requires 128 hours of coursework:
- BELL core requirements: 53 hours
- Major requirements (including 12 hours of electives): 31 hours
- Minor requirements: 18 hours
- General electives: 26 hours
Courses You'll Take
- PSC 1210 American Government
An introductory course covering the federal government in the United States. This course may not count toward a major or minor in Political Science or Political Economy. - ECO 2220 Principles of Microeconomics
An introductory course in microeconomic theory. Primary emphasis is placed upon the study of the behavior of individual decision-making units. Topics to be studied include: demand and supply analysis, the theory of consumer behavior, the theory of the firm, market structures and resource allocation, and resource price-employment determination. - PSC 2200 American Political Institutions
The focus of this course is on Congress and the Presidency, the political branches of American government, and the bureaucracy. As an introduction to the sub-field of American politics, the course will study these institutions in greater depth through looking at the approaches the discipline takes toward them. In studying these three institutions in greater detail, it will also investigate how they interact to create public policy. - PSC 2300 International Relations
A survey of the sub-field of international relations, this course gives special emphasis to political and economic factors which contribute to conflict and cooperation among nations. - PSC 2400 Comparative Politics
This course examines political, economic and social divergence between nations. As one field of political science, comparative politics attempts to identify patterns of divergence and to determine their causes. A particular focus of this course is how differences in institutional arrangements across countries affect differences in outcomes. - PSC 2500 Political Theory
An introduction to the foundations of normative political theory, with emphasis on great political ideas and thinkers. - PSC 2600 Social Scientific Methods
This course is designed to provide students with a broad understanding of the various sub-fields, approaches, and methods of Political Science. Special emphasis is placed on honing the research, writing, and critical thinking skills necessary to succeed in the discipline. - PSC 4600 Research Seminar in Political Science
A culminating research seminar designed for majors in their last year of matriculation. Students will examine the many sub-fields in the discipline and complete and present a major independent research thesis. Normally taken in concert with PSC 4980. Open to non-majors with instructor’s permission. Taught each spring semester.
Explore your interests, take on an internship or build your debating skills. You’ll find many ways to get involved beyond the classroom:
- Get real-world political experience. An internship with a political organization at the state, national or global level gives you an inside look at the political system.
- Hear from thought leaders in the field. We regularly host scholars, authors and other influential figures from Nashville and beyond.
- Become a world-class debater. Our award-winning Speech and Debate team takes you across the country to polish your skills and compete for prizes.
- Study abroad. Immerse yourself in another culture and study political systems just about anywhere in the world.
Samantha Hubner
Acting Director of AI Policy at the White House Office of Management and Budget
“Dr. Griffith helped me navigate what to expect in my first year. He's a bit of an expert on the topic, as a Belmont graduate himself. His insights completely validated my decision to pursue college at a place like Belmont, with its values-driven and thriving creative community, instead of those other schools. Dr. Griffith remained my academic advisor and most trusted mentor for all four years at Belmont, and I am still so grateful for all that he and other Belmont faculty taught me.”
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