Political Science

**POLITICAL SCIENCE**

Political science is the study of power in society – on the local, national, and international levels. The major equips students to understand how politics works and to play effective roles as citizens of a democracy and of the world. It is a versatile degree that can lead to a career in politics and policy, law, nonprofit work, business, media, or education.

**Why Choose Political Science?**

**The Big Picture**  

Studying political science prepares students to play a more effective role as citizens of a democracy and of the world. It helps them better understand other people and their ideas.

**The Hands-On Opportunities**  

Political science majors use New York City as a political classroom. Courses like Power in the City and Wall Street include weekly field trips to view significant buildings and public works in the city.

Internships are another great way to learn by doing. Students get to work with elected officials around the city and intern at places such as:

- New York City Council

- State Assembly

- State Senate

- MTA

- NYC Planning Department

- Parks Department

- Housing Department

- Law offices

- District Attorney’s offices

- Nonprofit organizations that advocate for better housing, child care, women's rights, and the environment

Beyond New York City, students can earn college credits while interning in Washington, D.C. or Albany, NY through partnership programs. There are also opportunities to travel internationally with programs to the Czech Republic, London, and the Galapagos Islands.

A great way to gain initial experience is through a political science-sponsored field trip to Washington, D.C., Albany, or Philadelphia. These trips include meetings with elected officials and walking tours of historical and political sites.

**Model UN**  

The Political Science Department also runs a Model United Nations program. Model UN is available as a class in the spring or as an extracurricular activity in the fall. As part of the program, students simulate the work of the UN at international conferences in New York City and Washington, D.C.

In this participatory, hands-on experience, students will:

- Gain expertise on a particular country by representing its views throughout the conference

- Meet thousands of other students from around the world in a collaborative setting

- Negotiate resolutions that address:

 - Regional conflicts

 - Peacekeeping

 - Human rights

 - The concerns of women and children

 - Economic and social development

 - The environment

**What Will You Do?**  

A major in political science will prepare students for careers in federal, state, and local government, nonprofit work, the private sector, international organizations, law, or education. There are many fields that need employees who are knowledgeable about policy and law.