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Understand Governance Systems
The Political Science, B.A., major is a social science program that studies politics and government. With more than two-dozen full-time faculty, you’ll take a broad range of courses that reflect the diversity of faculty interests and expertise.
Political science majors typically engage in research, study internationally, and secure acceptance to law school.
Contact Information
Chris Kelley, Ph.D.
Lead Departmental Advisor
Department of Political Science
220 Harrison Hall
349 E. High St., Oxford, OH 45056
political@MiamiOH.edu
513-529-9011
Curriculum and Courses
We regularly offer a range of courses that cover central issues and questions in the study of politics and government, including courses on the American political system (e.g., constitutional rights and liberties, the American presidency, Congress, parties and interests groups, and political behavior); World Politics (e.g., international relations, international law and organizations, American foreign policy); Comparative Politics (the politics and government in the major regions of the world, e.g., Western and Eastern Europe, the Middle East, Latin America, Africa, and Asia); Political Philosophy; and Public Administration.
I participated in Miami’s Inside Washington program, and it was one of the most influential experiences that I have had throughout my academic career. It helped to elevate my level of professionalism and work ethic, along with being very inspired by the different speakers that came and talked to our group.
Siena Pack ’25
Course Topics
- American Political System: constitutional rights and liberties, Congress and the Presidency, parties and interest groups, political behavior, political economy
- World Politics: American foreign policy, international relations, and international law and organizations
- Comparative Politics: Western and Eastern Europe, Middle East, Latin America, Africa, and Asia
- Political Philosophy: themes of power, equality, freedom, justice, and more
- Public Administration: governance, leadership, and management of public and non-profit sectors
Careers in Political Science
The Department of Political Science prepares students for their futures, whether in advanced studies or careers, and as citizens. Alumni go on to study at top graduate and professional schools (including law school) and find careers in business, the Foreign Service, the armed forces, federal, state, and local government, law enforcement, lobbying, and non-profit organizations.
Some of our alumni serve in Congress, at the White House, and in U.S. embassies abroad. Others have successful careers in academic political science, including the president of a university, deans, and department chairs.
Other Student Opportunities
Students may achieve numerous prizes, scholarships, and recognitions and pursue experiential learning opportunities such as:
- Inside Washington (summer; offered with Dept. of Media, Journalism, and Film): Intern in Washington, DC and engage with Miami alumni who are public officials, congressional and administrative staff, journalists, and other DC-based political professionals
- Ohio Public Leaders (winter and summer): Practical, co-curricular fellowship experiences coordinated by the Center for Public Management and Regional Affairs
- Student organizations: Include Amicus Curiae Pre-Law Society, the Forensics Society, the Janus Forum, Miami University Model United Nations, the Miami Association for Public Administration, Pi Sigma Alpha, and more
Facts and Stats
Your college experience here will be one of the most exciting times of your life. To make sure of this, we’ll provide you with a powerful support system.
First-to-second year retention
Miami University Data
Among Public Universities in the United States for Four-Year Graduation Rate
The Chronicle of Higher Education Almanac
of 2018-2019 graduates who were employed or furthering their education by fall 2019
Miami University Data
This is Where Your Journey to Miami University Begins
Explore what it means to be a college student at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio, where students prepare to go anywhere and everywhere. We’ll be here to help every step of the way as you prepare for college admission, enrollment, and success.