A group of political science students monitor polls.

Political Science

Analyze, interpret and explain political phenomena while developing reasoned knowledge about governance and explore a domestic or international career in policy, law or nonprofits.

Political Science – B.A. in Political Science, Minor

Students in the Political Science department at Montana State develop knowledge of American political institutions, world politics, political theory, public administration and policy through the lens of a political scientist. In addition to the courses available, Political Science students are also able to learn more about the discipline through a variety of hands-on opportunities such as the department’s internship program, as well as study abroad opportunities.

In addition to the major, Political Science can also be taken as a minor.

 

 

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MSU Treasure State Poll
The Treasure State Poll, run by students and faculty in the Political Science department at Montana State, was the only university poll in the state to accurately predict the results of the competitive Senate and House elections in 2018.

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Carnegie Classified
The prestigious Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education® ranks Montana State University among the Top 5 public, 4-year universities for Very High Research Activity with a STEM-dominant research doctoral program.

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The HELPS Lab
Political Science students have the opportunity to gain vital experience at the Human Ecology Learning and Problem Solving (HELPS) Lab, which collects high-quality data for researchers using a variety of social and behavior methods.

 

 

Career Resources

Within their first year of graduation, more than 96% of Montana State graduates are employed, continuing their education or not seeking employment, and career guidance website Zippia consistently ranks MSU as the #1 school in the state where alumni are most likely to land jobs.

Career Coaching & Professional Skills Studio

Professional career coaches help students with their career exploration, employer networking opportunities and job or internship searches. They also critique resumes and help students practice job interviews. Additionally, the Allen Yarnell Center for Student Success offers free workshops for students to develop the professional communication and collaboration skills that are highly sought after by employers.

Careers

Political Science students at Montana State University go into careers such as:

  • Government

· Public Administration & International Affairs

  • Nonprofit Administration
  • Journalism & Media
  • Higher Education

To explore more career possibilities, the Allen Yarnell Center for Student Success has a variety of tools available , including self-assessment and working with career coaches.