The political science major at Lehigh University is designed to promote an understanding of politics—its ideas, ideals, perceptions, realities, institutions, and processes—and to develop skills in analyzing and evaluating social and political problems.
Beyond the classroom, many political science professors are involved with student groups and current-issue groups. All faculty members are readily available to meet with individual students.
Political science exposes students to various areas of inquiry, including political institutions, processes, and the comparative and philosophical perspectives of political analysis. These inquiries are how the goals of the major are generally achieved.
Experiential Learning Opportunities
A variety of experiential opportunities are available to political science majors. For example, the department offers a Community Politics Internship every semester with placement opportunities in local government, private agencies, or law offices.
Students are also encouraged to apply for off-campus internship opportunities, such as American University’s Washington Semester Program and The Philadelphia Center’s Internship in Philadelphia.
Career Paths
A political science degree is considered suitable training for those interested in attending law school, becoming a social science teacher, or working as a government official, public affairs commentator, or a staff member of a government research bureau. The private sector also provides opportunities for bachelor of arts graduates with social science training in areas like banking, insurance, and marketing.
Graduate study is advisable for students considering careers in college teaching, research, or public administration, for example.
For more information, explore our major and minor options.