What is Political Science?
Political science is the study of power, governance, institutions, and how societies organize themselves. Political science students explore political systems at the local, national, and global levels, asking essential questions: What is justice? How do different governments work? How does public policy shape lives and communities?
Students analyze political theory, policy design, civic engagement, social justice, and the dynamics of conflict and cooperation. Through writing, research, simulations, and discussion, you develop a deep understanding of political processes and values.
Why study Political Science?
Studying political science gives you the tools to engage with real-world issues, from climate policy to human rights, from electoral reform to global development. You’ll learn how to critically evaluate institutions, design policy solutions, and communicate ideas to diverse audiences.
This major prepares you for careers in government and public service, and also for roles in law, journalism, nonprofit leadership, advocacy, and international organizations. Your political science training develops highly sought-after professional skills — analytical reasoning, public speaking, and persuasive writing.
Why study Political Science at Beloit College?
At Beloit College, political science is integrated into a broad, socially engaged education. Courses cover a wide variety of topics, classical justice, environmental politics, women and politics in Africa, race and ethnicity, human rights, and more. Students may take part in policy simulations, write briefs, or run shadow campaigns.
Beloit College students also benefit from rich global perspectives. Many study abroad in places like Washington, D.C. or Amsterdam, and several alumni have won prestigious Fulbright Scholarships. The department encourages interdisciplinary learning — you can easily double-major or combine political science with programs like critical identity studies, environmental studies, health & society, or law & justice.
Faculty are active scholars and public intellectuals, bridging theory and practice in their teaching. Classes frequently draw students from a variety of disciplines, making for dynamic discourse and shared learning across perspectives.