FASTFACTS
- Our major program has been rated the “Best Value” nationwide by College Factual
- Two current faculty members have received PC’s prestigious Professor of the Year Award
- Excellent pathway to professional and academic programs, such as law school, MPA, and public policy programs, as well as Ph.D. and Master’s programs
- Our partnership with the O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs at Indiana University gives PC students and alumni priority admission to several graduate programs
- Home to active student clubs such as the Political Science Club, South Carolina Student Legislature, Young Democrats, College Republicans, and Model United Nations
- Political science majors make between $40,000 to $100,000 a year (payscale.com); political science jobs are expected to increase by 7% by 2032 (a faster than average job outlook)
- Extensive network with alumni in legal, professional, government, public policy, business, and academic fields
What You’ll Study as a Political Science Major
Students are required to complete two foundational courses in U.S. Government and World Politics, laying the groundwork for more comprehensive exploration in three primary areas: U.S. Politics, Public Policy, and World Politics. Students may also choose at least three elective courses, with the option to engage in active-learning experiences, such as the South Carolina State Legislature or Model United Nations, allowing them to apply their knowledge and skills to real-world situations.
The curriculum’s pinnacle involves a senior capstone project, wherein students undertake independent research, guided by a faculty mentor, that culminates in a public presentation of their findings before graduation. To equip students with essential analytical skills, the department offers a multi-course sequence of research methods and data analysis, emphasizing applied knowledge in the social sciences—a sought-after skill set in the job market.
MORE INFORMATION
- CO = Co-requisite
- CO = Co-requisite
- POI = Permissions of Instructor
- PR = Pre-requisite
- RE = Recommended
- XL = Cross-listed
Careers in Political Science and Public Policy
According to the American Political Science Association, “Political science majors qualify for various careers in both private and public sector organizations, spanning business, law, state, local, and federal government, journalism, as well as pre-college and college teaching.”
The careers shaped by our major offer not only above-median remunerations but more significantly, an opportunity for a fulfilling life. Many of our alumni have attested to leading meaningful lives, contributing to their communities through their work, and embodying the values instilled during their time at Presbyterian College.
CAREER PROFESSIONS
- Politics
- Campaign Manager
- Lobbyist
- Legislative or Congressional Aide
- Elected or Appointed Positions at the Local/State/National level
Law
- Attorney
- Judicial Clerk
- Paralegal
- Civil Rights Advocate
Government
- Public Policy Specialist
- Urban Policy Planner
- Healthcare Policy
- Foreign Service Officer
- FBI/CIA Analyst or Agent
- Police Officer
Education
- High School Government Teacher
- University Professor
- University Administrator
FACULTY
503 South Broad Street