Politics and Government (BA)
Chicago, Illinois, United States, United States
Bachelor of Arts in Politics and Government
North Park University
Politics and Government
Program Overview: BA in Politics and Government
The Bachelor of Arts in Politics and Government at North Park University prepares you for knowledgeable participation in civic life and careers that require the ability to analyze political behavior using both theoretical and practical concepts. Located in Chicago — one of America's most politically dynamic cities — this program gives you unparalleled access to government institutions, political organizations, and public service opportunities.
Throughout the program, you will sharpen your writing, research, and analytical skills while developing the communication abilities essential for careers in federal and local government, legislative offices, law practices, and nonprofit organizations. The curriculum blends foundational political science coursework with hands-on research methods and experiential learning opportunities.
North Park's Politics and Government Department has established internship partnerships with prominent political offices, including those of U.S. Senators and the City of Chicago Mayor's Office. Whether you aspire to work in political campaigns, international humanitarian organizations, or pursue law school, this degree provides a strong interdisciplinary foundation for your goals.
Key Program Highlights
- Chicago location providing direct access to government offices, political campaigns, and nonprofit organizations for real-world learning experiences
- Internship partnerships with offices of U.S. Senators, the Illinois Governor's Office, and the Chicago Mayor's Office
- Pre-law advisory track available for students planning to attend law school after graduation
- Small class sizes with a 12:1 student-faculty ratio ensuring personalized mentorship and academic support
Curriculum and Course Modules
The BA in Politics and Government requires 36 semester hours of major coursework within a total of 120 credits for graduation. A comprehensive examination is required and must be passed, and a minimum of 16 credits at the 3000 level or higher must be completed at North Park University. The curriculum covers American politics, comparative systems, international relations, and research methods.
American Government (POGO 1600)
4 CreditsAn introductory survey of the principles that have shaped the American Republic, examining political institutions and processes including the Constitution, presidency, Congress, Supreme Court, political parties, campaigns, elections, and selected public policy issues.
Comparative Politics (POGO 2300)
4 CreditsAn introductory comparative study of the political institutions of nations across Europe, the Middle East, Latin America, Asia, and Sub-Saharan Africa, examining forms of government, political culture, parties, elections, and governing institutions.
Public Opinion and Survey Research Methods
4 CreditsHands-on experience in survey development and analysis, where students survey peers and gauge knowledge and involvement in a range of important topics including politics and religion, building practical research skills.
United States Foreign Policy
4 CreditsAn examination of U.S. foreign policy in the twentieth and twenty-first centuries with emphasis on major features of American engagement, the expansion of American power, and analysis of the foreign policy decision-making process.
Senior Seminar in Politics and Government
4 CreditsAn extensive investigation of significant themes through reading, discussion, and research designed to integrate all previous coursework in the major. Students complete a major research project, assemble findings in a seminar paper, and present to the seminar.
Departmental Honors in Politics and Government (POGO 4920)
4 CreditsAn independent, high-level examination of a political problem or issue culminating in the writing of an honors thesis. This course is available to qualified students seeking departmental honors distinction.
Elective Options
Admission Requirements
North Park University uses a holistic admissions process, evaluating your academic record alongside personal essays, recommendation letters, and extracurricular involvement. The university follows a test-optional policy for SAT and ACT scores. To begin your application, reach out to Uni4Edu for personalized guidance through the entire process.
Academic Requirements
- High School DiplomaCompletion of secondary school equivalent to American Grade 12 is required
- GPA RequirementMinimum 2.75 GPA on a 4.0 scale recommended for international students
- Standardized TestsTest-optional policy — SAT and ACT scores are not required but may be submitted
- Recommendation LetterOne academic recommendation from a current or former teacher verifying academic abilities
- Transcript EvaluationInternational students with foreign credentials must submit a course-by-course evaluation from an approved service
English Language Requirements
- TOEFL iBTMinimum score of 80 (lower scores may be considered based on subject scores)
- IELTSMinimum overall band score of 6.0 (lower scores may be considered based on subject scores)
- English Proficiency ExemptionContact Uni4Edu to check if you qualify for an English proficiency waiver based on prior education
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships and Funding
North Park University is committed to making education accessible, with the vast majority of students receiving some form of financial aid. International students are eligible for institutional scholarships and grants. Contact Uni4Edu for personalized guidance on funding opportunities available to you.
International Academic Scholarship
Merit-based scholarship available to international undergraduate students who demonstrate strong academic achievement in their secondary school records. Award amounts vary based on academic profile.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
Graduates of the Politics and Government program at North Park University are well-prepared for careers in public service, law, nonprofit management, and international affairs. The program's Chicago location and established internship network with government offices provide students with valuable professional connections and real-world experience before graduation.
Potential Career Paths
Internship and Employment Partners
Rankings and Recognition
North Park University has earned strong recognition in national rankings for its academic quality, commitment to social mobility, and overall value. The university has seen significant ranking improvements in recent years, reflecting its dedication to student success and accessible education in the heart of Chicago.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Regional Universities Midwest | U.S. News & World Report | #54 |
| Top Performers on Social Mobility (Midwest) | U.S. News & World Report | #6 |
| Best Value Regional Universities (Midwest) | U.S. News & World Report | #25 |
| Best Value Small Colleges | SmartAsset | #43 nationally, #1 in Chicago |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
Similar Programmes
Master's & Postgraduate
12 months
International Relations MSc
University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
Earliest Intake
January 2026
Gross Tuition
27720 £
Bachelor's Degree
36 months
Politics BA (Hons)
Prifysgol Bangor University, Bangor, United Kingdom
Earliest Intake
May 2026
Gross Tuition
18000 £
Master's & Postgraduate
12 months
Peace, Conflict and Diplomacy - MA
London Metropolitan University, London, United Kingdom
Earliest Intake
April 2025
Gross Tuition
20000 £
Bachelor's Degree
48 months
Politics and International Relations with a Placement Year\t
University of Kent, Canterbury, United Kingdom
Earliest Intake
October 2025
Gross Tuition
19300 £
Master's & Postgraduate
21 months
International Relations Extended Master's - MA
London Metropolitan University, London, United Kingdom
Earliest Intake
April 2025
Gross Tuition
21360 £
Uni4Edu AI Assistant
