Siena’s political science program will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of and appreciation for U.S. and world politics. Here, you’ll actively participate in local, state and international political arenas. You'll graduate as an informed and empowered citizen ready for a range of careers in this diverse, interconnected and complex world.
As a political science major, you'll have seemingly endless opportunities study and experience American politics, political theory, public law, international politics, and public policy inside and outside the classroom. Intern at the state capital. Take travel courses. Join Model UN, Moot Court/Mock Trial and Political Science Society. Develop sought-after skills including leadership, critical thinking, confidence in writing and public speaking, ability to make compelling and persuasive arguments, adaptability, culture awareness and understanding, as well as social responsibility. An 18-credit minor is also offered.
Political Science - Students in the general political science track take elective courses across all subfields of political science, including American Politics, Comparative Politics, International Relations, Political Theory, Public Policy, and Public Law. In this track, student can explore politics in different contexts and shape an elective curriculum of 18 credits to meet their individual interests. A general political science degree prepares students a broad range of career paths, including law, government service, public policy and administration, international affairs, teaching, journalism, and non-profit service.
American Politics & Justice - The American Politics & Justice (APJ) track requires 15 elective credits within the track, which includes courses in American Politics, Political Theory, and Public Law. The track covers topics on political institutions, such as Congress, the Presidency, and Interest Groups, as well as political behavior courses like Public Opinion and Congressional Elections. Students will study competing theories of justice, public law, civil liberties, and the history of political thought. Student may also take advanced courses in political theory, criminal justice, or constitutional law. The APJ track provides a great foundation for students interested in pursuing careers in electoral politics, government, policy advocacy, law, journalism, criminal justice, or law enforcement.
International Relations - The International Relations (IR) track requires 15 elective credits within the track, covering the fields of Comparative Politics and International Relations. Courses in this track explore domestic and foreign policies of countries from around the world and include area studies such as Latin America, Middle East, Europe, and Asia. Other courses in this field have a more topical focus, such as Migration/Refugee Politics, Genocides, Political Leadership or Foreign Policies of the Great and Rising Powers. While studying interstate politics, students may take courses on US Foreign Policy, International Organizations, International Law, and regularly offered travel courses to different world regions (among other specialized topics). The IR track provides students with an outstanding foundation for careers or further study in international diplomacy, national security and intelligence, international non-profit service and advocacy, or international business.
Public Policy & Administration - Students in the Public Policy & Administration (PPA) track must complete POSC 265 – Public Policy and 12 elective credits within the track. This track covers topics on the policy process, like State & Local Government and Lobbying, specific policy areas like foreign policy or minority politics, and public administration. PPA students will learn about how public policy is developed, implemented, and analyzed. This track is ideal for students interested in pursuing careers in policy analysis, advocacy, government administration, government relations or non-profit management. Many students may go on to pursue graduate degrees in Public Administration or Public Policy.
Through a selection of elective courses, you'll be able to dive into a specialized curriculum that suits your interests.
Areas of study include:
Siena political science major are well-prepared for future careers or graduate study in government service, public policy and administration, law, international affairs, teaching, journalism and nonprofit or private sector careers. Recent alumni have launched careers like political director, legislative director, attorney, government and community affairs representative, legislative aide, policy director and digital marketing specialist.
