Quick Facts
- Delivery: On Campus
- Credits: 43-55
- Small class sizes
- Robust internship program
- Exciting student opportunities
If you are fascinated by the world of politics, government, and lawmaking, then Ball State’s major in political science is right for you. Taught by dedicated faculty who are experts in their field, our program allows you to choose from three options—American Government and Politics, Global Politics and International Affairs, and Public and Non-Profit Administration—to better focus your expertise.
You will graduate prepared for career success in a diversity of fields, including law, government, public administration, international organizations (such as the United Nations), nonprofit organizations (such as CARE), and education.
What You Will Learn as a Political Science Major
Learning outcomes for the political science program include how to:
- make sense of the world
- increase your research and communication skills
- increase your analytical and critical thinking skills
- craft persuasive arguments and hone your debate skills
- make a difference in your community
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My research experiences have helped me broaden my own understanding of what health is, which will help me write more informed policies in the future.
—Lydia Kotowski
Political Science Alumna
Concentrations
Students with this concentration will study a wide variety of topics in American Government, its structure, and its history. In doing so, students will learn to appreciate how these foundational institutions of American government shape modern politics and society.
Students pursuing this concentration will learn about the interplay between the world’s diverse political systems, and how these interactions, similarities, and differences affect diplomacy and international relationships between countries across the globe.
Students studying this concentration will learn about the processes of the formation of policy and law and how legislation is implemented by various public institutions and will also analyze the trajectory of its influence on governments in different settings.
Computer Recommendations
Students entering the Department of Political Science will need to possess a personal computer. The College of Sciences and Humanities provides recommendations for the specifications student need to excel in their course work.
See Our Recommendations (PDF)
Keep Exploring
On top of the dozens of scholarships the university offers its students, our department gives awards every year to its own students to recognize them for their achievements. Learn more.
Take the Next Step
Are you interested in pursuing this major? The first step is to apply as an undergraduate student to Ball State University. One of the best ways to understand why Ball State stands out is to come see it for yourself. You can schedule a visit through our Office of Undergraduate Admissions. Make sure to tell them you’re interested in our program. Or if you’d like to speak with someone in our department directly by phone or email, please contact us.