Political Science

Advance policy. Drive change. Make a difference. A Bachelor of Arts in political science from Bowling Green State University helps you turn civic knowledge into meaningful action.

A political science degree from BGSU transforms those with curious minds into key changemakers. Our degree equips you with the analytical skills, critical thinking abilities and hands-on experience needed to navigate – and shape – our complex political landscape.

Politics touches virtually every aspect of our lives, shaping the way we live, work and engage with the world around us. Political decisions affect how communities are governed, how resources are allocated and how societies evolve. Now more than ever, the world needs informed leaders who understand the inner workings of government, the dynamics of power and the art of effective governance.

Why study political science at BGSU in Ohio?

Distinguished professors. Learn from professors who are active researchers and practitioners who bring current insights and real-world experience into the classroom. Political science faculty also engage students through community service projects, simulations and research collaborations.
Comprehensive curriculum. The BGSU bachelor’s degree in political science offers a curriculum that’s rigorous and well-rounded – maximizing your options after graduation. Courses are divided into seven categories: American politics, public administration, comparative politics, international relations, public law/judicial politics, political methodology and political theory.
Real-world application. Our political science degree program bridges theory and practice through internships, research opportunities and direct engagement with political processes. Each year, students participate in full-time internships in Washington, D.C., through the Washington Center Internship Program. BGSU students don’t just study politics. They practice it.
Expand your impact. Pair a nonprofit administration minor with your political science major to gain practical leadership and management skills for mission-driven organizations.
Strategic location. Ohio’s political significance on the national stage provides unparalleled opportunities for meaningful internships, networking and career development in state and national politics.
On-campus connections. Join student organizations such as the International Relations Organization, Pi Sigma Alpha (political science honorary), College Democrats, College Republicans and BGSU Pre-Law Society – all offering lectures, field trips and enriching learning experiences outside the classroom.

The poltical science department sponsors a student delegation to the National Model United Nations Conference in New York City each spring.

Public university in Ohio for career prep

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Career - what can you do with a political science degree?

A political science degree from BGSU opens doors to an impressive range of career opportunities across many industries. Graduates with a bachelor’s degree in political science go on to successful careers in academia, business, journalism, law, public administration, nonprofit administration and more.

The program’s versatility means your career path can evolve with your passions and the changing needs of society.

Many graduates go on to government and public service positions and guide policy at the local, state and federal levels.
Some work as campaign managers or for political consulting firms. They drive electoral success and strategic communications.
There’s also a wealth of political science degree jobs in data analysis and research. Professionals help leaders in government, nonprofits and business to make informed, evidence-based decisions.

A political science degree also perfectly positions you for competitive post-graduate programs including MBA programs, law school or master’s and doctoral programs in public policy, public administration, political science, international relations and more.

Bottom line: political science careers offer long-term growth potential. Many graduates advance to leadership positions that command high salaries and provide the satisfaction of meaningful public service.

Career paths

Attorney
Diplomat/Foreign service officer
Human resources specialist
Journalist or political reporter
Law enforcement
Legislative assistant
Lobbyist
Local government or state legislature
Nonprofit director
Political campaign staffer/manager
Political consultant
Political scientist
Public policy analyst

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Curriculum

The 120-hour Bachelor of Arts in political science degree from BGSU prepares students to become keen observers of politics and society through comprehensive study across seven specialized areas:

American politics
Comparative politics
International relations
Political methodology
Political theory
Public administration
Public law/Judicial politics

Students develop essential analytical tools to:

Evaluate political problems within broader historical and theoretical contexts
Master effective oral communication and presentation skills
Learn to integrate evidence from multiple perspectives to construct compelling arguments about significant political processes

Core coursework focuses on:

Research methods
Six upper-level courses with concentrated study in at least one specialized area
A culminating capstone experience that synthesizes learning through practical problem-solving

Required courses

Sample courses

American Government
Statistics and Research Methods
Comparative Government
Political Inquiry
International Relations

Political science minor

The ability to analyze power structures, understand policy implications and engage meaningfully in the democratic process has never been more essential, given the complex global challenges and rapidly evolving political landscapes of the modern world.

A minor in political science from BGSU complements just about every other field of study. Whether you’re majoring in business, communication, journalism, history or something else, a minor in political science will sharpen your analytical capabilities and prepare you to make meaningful contributions – as a professional and engaged citizen.

University in Ohio – big or small, public or private – students would choose again

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The political science program is part of the Department of Political Science in the BGSU College of Arts and Sciences.

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Updated: 08/20/2026 05:13PM