Political Science

Political science: Politics literally rules.

Local, state and federal governments are built on a complex structure of systems, issues, ideas, processes and policies. In this program, you will examine the science behind politics and the factors that help make governments work. As a political science major, you will explore modern-day political issues – like health care and education – and study the history of governments around the world. You will learn about topics related to globalization, American presidencies, political revolutions, civil rights and more. A major in political science prepare graduates for work in government agencies, party headquarters, political consulting firms, advocacy organizations, business or nonprofit agencies. The flexibility of the major also positions students for law school and other professional or graduate degree programs.

Is it for you?
This program will be a good fit if you:
  • Are interested in American politics and international affairs.
  • Have strong communication skills.
  • Like to debate.
  • Consider yourself a leader and like to be active in your community.
  • Are curious about current societal issues.
Career Opportunities
Explore possible career opportunities with this degree:
  • Government organizer
  • Analyst
  • City planner
  • Journalist
  • Lawyer (with additional education)
  • Nonprofit manager
  • City, state or federal elective offices
  • Campaign manager
  • Civil service administrator
  • Lobbyists
Recent Employers
Graduates have gone on to work at employers such as:
  • U.S House of Representatives
  • City of Volga
  • Daktronics
  • Johnson, Janklow, Abdallah, Bollweg
Internship Opportunities
We have provided the following internship opportunities:
  • South Dakota Legislature
  • Daktronics
  • City of Brookings
  • Political campaigns
  • Tieszen Law
Clubs & Organizations
We offer the following extracurricular clubs to participate in:
  • Political Science Club
  • Pre-Law Society
  • Model UN
Suggested Certificates
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American Civic Traditions Certificate (Undergraduate)
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Lobbying and Government Advocacy Certificate (Undergraduate)
New Product and Venture Development Certificate
New Product and Venture Development Certificate (Undergraduate)
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Public Service Certificate (Undergraduate)
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Workplace Intercultural Competence Certificate (Undergraduate)
Suggested Minors
Legal Studies Professor with Sculpture
Legal Studies Minor
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Journalism Minor
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Global Studies Minor
Leadership Minor Students
Leadership Minor
Administrative Affairs Masters students
Leadership and Management of Nonprofit Organizations Minor
Philosophy Busts
Philosophy Minor
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Geospatial Intelligence Minor
French Studies minor
French Studies Minor
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Women, Gender and Sexuality Studies Minor
Suggested Dual Majors
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American Indian and Indigenous Studies (B.A.)
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Psychology (B.A./B.S.)
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Criminology (B.A./B.S.)
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Public Relations (B.A./B.S.)