Political Science
Exploring the Major
Why Should You Study Political Science?
Political Science at BYU is about more than just studying governments. It’s about asking big questions: How do we build just societies? How do we use data and evidence to inform decisions? What is the role of law, diplomacy, or human rights in shaping global affairs? The goal is for you to leave curious, engaged, and equipped with strong analytical, writing, communication, and research skills.
In the Political Science department, we offer six different major options: Political Science (no emphasis) and five different emphases. Each option is designed to deepen your understanding of politics and to prepare you for careers or graduate study. Everyone in the major begins with core courses that introduce you to political systems, political theory, methods of inquiry, and how government works both in the U.S. and around the world.
Whether you’re aiming for a career in law, public service, international relations, data analysis, academia, or advocacy—or you just want a broad, critical outlook on politics—this major has something for you. Through a mix of theory, methods, internships, and specialized coursework, you can tailor the major to your goals.
Political Science Emphases
Political Science
If you're interested in exploring multiple areas of political science, the general Political Science major will give you this flexibility.
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Emphasis: International Strategy & Diplomacy
If you're drawn to...
An interest in global politics, diplomacy, foreign policy, or national security
Topics: Comparative politics; international relations; national security; international law; foreign policy analysis; human rights
Possible Careers: Diplomat / Foreign service; Risk analyst; International policy advisor; NGO work; Global affairs analyst
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Emphasis: Legal Studies
If you're drawn to...
Thinking about going to law school or working in courts, advocacy, or legal institutions
Topics: Constitutional law; jurisprudence; international law; legal theory; rights and liberties
Possible Careers: Lawyer / Attorney; Policy advisor; Legal consultant; Public defender; Judicial clerk
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Emphasis: Political Strategy
If you're drawn to...
Campaigns, media, elections, or wanting to influence public opinion and political behavior
Topics: Campaigns & elections; media and politics; public opinion; state & local government; electoral systems
Possible Careers: Campaign manager; Political consultant; Public affairs / communications; Press/media strategist
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Emphasis: Research & Analysis
If you're drawn to...
Using data, research design, methods, and evidence to tackle political questions
Topics: Statistics, data visualization; survey research; experimental and qualitative methods; policy analysis
Possible Careers: Data analyst; Policy researcher; Think tank researcher; Graduate work
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Emphasis: Global Development
If you're drawn to...
Working on political, economic, social issues in developing countries or in global / regional development
Topics: Political economy; regional studies; development policy; conflict & violence; human rights; economic growth; issues of poverty, institutions, gender globally
Possible Careers: International development practitioner; NGO / aid organization; Policy analyst; Global governance; Foreign policy; Human rights work
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Political Science Department Contacts
- Academic and Professional Development Manager: Megan Hancock
- Department Chair: Jay Goodliffe
- Political Science Department: Political Science
Competencies and Careers
Competencies Developed in the Program
Students in the Political Science program can expect to develop strong Communication, Critical Thinking, Information Literacy, and Cultural Navigation competencies.
Want to know more about these professional competencies? Career Readiness.
Common Career Fields
Political Science students can use their degree to pursue careers in many fields!
- Some of these include: Policy Analyst, Diplomat, Foreign Service Officer, Campaign Manager, Media Strategist, Professor, Data Analyst, Public Relations Specialist, Attorney/Lawyer, Lobbyist, Intelligence Analyst, Communications Director, Human Rights Advocate, Journalist, Community Organizer, Think Tank Researcher, International Business
Meet with your advisor
Would you like to know more about the program to see if it’s a good fit for your goals? Would you like to know more about your career options? Do you have a career option in mind but you’d like resources to help you chart a path toward that goal? Come meet with your Academic and Professional Development Manager, Megan Hancock.
Contact the Liberal Arts Advisement Center to set up an appointment.
How to Add the Major
This is an open enrollment program! Simply submit a major change request on your Progress Report to get started in the major.
FAQs
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Toggle ItemI have more questions about this major. Who can I talk to?
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Toggle ItemHow do I declare this major?
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Toggle ItemWhich minors do Political Science students usually have?
Political Science pairs well with many minors, depending on your career goals. Some common minors: Business, Statistics, Global Business & Literacy, International Development, Civic Engagement Leadership, Philosophy, Economics, Global & Community Impact, Urban & Regional Planning, Environmental Science and Sustainability.
You can check out all of the minors BYU offers in the BYU Catalog.
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Toggle ItemWhat if I want to double major in Political Science and another program?
You can petition to double major. Learn about the process here.