College of Sciences
Bachelor of Arts in Political Science
Studying Political Science at DeSales provides you with a deep understanding of American government and political processes. It equips you with a variety of in-demand marketable skills.
Program Details
- Official Degree Name
- Bachelor of Arts
- Format
-
In Class-Day
- Credit Hours
- 120
- Program Start
- Fall Semester
- Application Deadline
- Apply Anytime
- Average Time to Degree
- 4 Years
Why Get Your Degree at DeSales University?
A degree from DeSales University opens the door to many career paths. As you pursue a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, you will learn from experienced faculty. Our curriculum gives you the skills essential for success in any career in law, public policy, legislation, or international relations – whether it is in the private, government, or non-profit sector. Our specialized General, National Security, and Pre-Law tracks offer targeted education and practical experience. You will also benefit from several hands-on learning opportunities through the shadowing program and internships available. Regardless of your professional goals, at DeSales, you will join a supportive community committed to making a meaningful difference in the world.
Program Highlights
Multiple Pathways to Success
- With three specialized tracks to choose from, our political science majors can focus on their passions. The program’s areas of focus include general political science, pre-law, and national security.
Professional Development Opportunities
- As a political science major at DeSales, you’ll have exciting opportunities and internships to help prepare you for your career. As a first-year or sophomore, our shadowing program helps you explore career goals early on. With the aid of a faculty supervisor, you’ll plan internships with government and private organizations to boost your career development.
Proven Outcomes
- Our program provides you with the knowledge and marketable skills needed to succeed in any career path. Graduates have gone on to earn their Master’s degrees at top schools such as the Institute of World Politics and the Bush School of Government and Public Service. Alumni have also received law degrees from Dickinson, Georgetown, Harvard, Notre Dame, Stanford, Villanova, and many other prestigious institutions.
What Will You Study?
The political science major requires you to complete 45 credit hours of curriculum courses, in addition to the university’s standard academic requirements.
- International Law and Organization
- President and Congress
- Social Justice Policy
- American Foreign Policy
- Constitutional Law
- Terrorism and Counterterrorism
- American Federal Government
- Intelligence and Security
Program Tracks & Pathways
Swipe below to discover more!
Tracks
Learn MoreTrack
National Security
Prepare yourself for a career in dealing with national security issues by adding the National Security track to your Political Science degree. Develop key skills in strategic analysis, risk assessment, and policy formulation. Useful skills for roles in government agencies, international organizations, and private firms. Learn from experts at the annual Homeland Security Conference, as well as special guest speakers.
Courses You May Take Include:
Track
Pre-Law
Unlock your full potential for a successful legal career by enhancing your Political Science degree with a Pre-Law Track. This course offers a curriculum designed to sharpen your abilities in analytical writing, critical thinking, and persuasive communication. Skills necessary for any career, but especially for the rigors of law school and beyond.
Courses You May Take Include:
BS to JD
Learn MoreJuris Doctor’s
3+3 Partnership Program with Duquesne University School of Law
Take advantage of DeSales’ 3+3 Partnership Program with Duquesne University School of Law. The program provides a jump-start to your law education. Spend the first three years at DeSales earning your Political Science degree. Then, you will enroll at Duquesne University School of Law to earn a Juris Doctor (JD) for the final three years.
Law-related courses you may take include:
Minor
Learn MoreMinor
Political Science
Expand your horizons by pursuing a political science minor! Enhance your academic experience by being introduced to the complexities of government structures, public policy, and international relations. Increase your marketability by developing skills in analytical reasoning, research, and argumentation. Learn what it means to be a responsible citizen in a democracy while growing as a professional in your desired field.
Required Courses Include:
Internships & Career Outcomes
In consistence with the philosophy of DeSales, the Political Science major aims to not only educate students in political science itself, but also to incorporate the Christian humanist perspective, as developed by St. Francis, into their studies, work, and careers. It is important for students to effectively and properly prepare for their careers during their undergraduate tenure. The Political Science major provides students with exciting shadowing opportunities and internships at the following employers:
- Court of Common Pleas, Northampton Counter
- Fitzpatrick, Lentz & Bubba, P.C.
- The Fund for American Studies
- Donahue Law Firm
- U.S. Senator Robert Casey
- Turning Points of the Lehigh Valley
- Lehigh County Adult Probation
- PA State Lisa Boscola
Application Checklist
- Official High School Transcript
- Completed Guidance Counselor Form
- Completed Teacher Recommendation Form
- Optional Standardized Test
Program FAQS
Given the broad realm of political science and the variation between each political science track, you may be especially suited for certain roles within a government or private job. Some of these careers include:
- Ambassador
- College Professor
- Foreign Service Officer
- Intelligence Specialist
- Policy Analyst
- Political Consultant
- Reporter
- State Legislator
- Writer/Editor
Office of Admissions
Contact
-
610-282-1100 x1277 -
admiss@desales.edu -
Dooling Hall
