Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Science in Political Science

Study the Nuances of Politics and Society

A field of great breadth and variety, political science gives you a lens to understand almost all aspects of our society, from the economy to the environment.

Through a broad-based liberal arts education, majoring in political science at UT Tyler improves your writing and analytical skills. In the process, you develop the habits and techniques employers look for — strong communication, innovative problem-solving and teamwork.

Select from Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science formats based on how you intend to apply your knowledge.

Why Major in Political Science at UT Tyler?

Think about how you can shape society, from developing programs and policies to campaigning during election cycles. In preparation, political science majors learn to apply theories to real-world events. At the same time, students gain transferable communication and analytical skills that apply to several career paths.

Political science students benefit from:

• Expert Faculty: In small class sizes, learn from and interact with engaged professors recognized in their respective fields. Many of our faculty influence the discipline as published authors of articles and books, including What is Global Studies-Theory and Practice, Political Change in the Texas Electorate, Edward Said on the Prospects of Peace in Palestine and Israel, Bill Ratliff-A Profile of Courage and Leadership in American Politics, U.S. First Ladies and Buddhism in Burmese Politics.
• Study Abroad: The UT Tyler Political Science curriculum is flexible, and with careful planning, you can study abroad. The department offers annual travel-study opportunities in many exciting places around the world. In recent years, our students studied in Cambodia, England, France, Germany and Vietnam. Studying abroad is a great way to satisfy part of your political science major or minor requirements. Scholarships are available for study abroad programs through the department, the UT Tyler Office of International Programs and national organizations. Research these opportunities early!
• A Sweeping Focus: Master the political institutions of Texas and the United States and explore the intricacies of international relations and foreign policy.
• Complementary Minors: Minor in pre-law, international relations, international studies and terrorism studies to refine your career path.
• Model United Nations Program: Learn from accomplished diplomacy and policymaking leaders in our award-winning Model United Nations Program while developing knowledge regarding international relations issues.
• Archer Fellowship: The Honors College selects two UT Tyler students each semester for the Archer Fellowship, where they intern in Washington, D.C., at the White House, Department of Justice, Department of State or the House of Representatives. Political science majors are frequently chosen to participate in this enriching opportunity.
• Undergraduate Research: Undertake research assignments designed to deepen your understanding of national and international political thought.

Curriculum

Delve into such areas as contemporary political thought, Southern politics, theories of nonviolence, political behavior, American politics in mass media, the politics of Latin America, international conflict and the principles of public and political leadership.

All political science majors take a minimum of 36 credit hours in their major, of which 30 must be in upper-division courses.

The Bachelor of Arts in political science requires at least four semesters of a single foreign language or a satisfactory grade on a written examination. The Bachelor of Science in political science involves six credit hours from economics, geography and/or computer science in addition to lower-division preparation.

Political Science Major Requirements

What Can You Do With a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science?

A political science degree opens doors to a broad range of careers, including government, public service, business and law. And, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics notes the field’s growth, projecting 7% more roles by 2032. Current professionals see median salaries of $128,000 a year.

Job titles include:

• Campaign Manager
• City Manager
• Diplomat
• Domestic and International Consulting
• Elections Official
• Foreign Affairs Specialist
• Journalist
• Lawyer
• Lobbyist
• Nonprofit Administrator
• Policy Analyst
• Politician
• Polling Analyst
• Research Analyst
• Social Media Coordinator
• Teacher
• University Professor

Some of our undergraduates also work at UT Tyler in various higher education positions. Graduates of our master’s program teach at Trinity Valley Community College, Tyler Junior College, Kilgore College and other colleges in Texas.