Political Science (PLSCA)

Click here for program requirements as listed in Penn State's Undergraduate Degree Programs Bulletin.

The Political Science major offers the student an opportunity to understand not only American federal, state, and local governments, but also the political systems of other nations and the philosophies that underlie them. Courses are offered in American, comparative, and international politics, and in political theory and methodology. Internship opportunities are available.

For the B.A. degree in Political Science, a minimum of 123 credits is required.

Opportunities in Political Science

Career Opportunities

Political scientists are concerned with the function of government, including the legal system. Many political scientists analyze and report on current events, much as do news analysts, reporters, and correspondents. They find jobs in policy or research, utilizing their knowledge of political institutions to further the interests of nonprofit, political lobbying, businesses, and social organizations. Political scientists conduct surveys, study social problems, teach, and engage in urban and regional planning. Government is a key employer of social scientists, including political scientists.

Job Titles

Survey researcher; policy analyst; researcher; government administration/management; teacher; strategic planner; lobbyist; consultant; legislative staff

Job Outlook

Overall employment of social scientists is expected to grow more slowly than average for all occupations through 2014. A key employer of social scientists is the federal governments, where job growth will be slow.