Political Science and International Relations Major (BA, BS)
When you pursue a degree in political science and international relations, you explore systematic approaches to understanding politics. Through thought-provoking courses and experiential learning opportunities, you develop a deep understanding of why things happen in the world of politics and international relations. With an emphasis on research, writing, and oral presentation, this program helps you build strong critical-thinking, analytical, and communication skills.
Career Paths
The major prepares you for graduate school in political science, public administration, public policy, and business administration. It also prepares you for a wide range of careers in federal, state, and local governments as well business, politics, law, teaching, grassroots organization, political consulting, international relations, and more.
Notable graduate schools include:
- Duke University
- Harvard Law School
- Ohio State University
- Syracuse University
- University of Chicago
- University of Michigan
- University of Iowa
- Penn State University
- University of Wisconsin-Madison
- George Washington University
- Creighton University
- Boston University
- American University
- London School of Economics
Law School Pathways
Truman has 3+3 law school pathways agreements with select institutions allowing qualified students to matriculate into law school after completing just 90 credit hours at the undergraduate level.
Pre-Law Studies at Truman>
Notable employers include:
- The White House
- Missouri Governor’s Office
- Brennan Institute of Justice
- Bureau of Labor Statistics
- Missouri General Assembly
- U.S. Congress
- Verizon
- Edward Jones
- Peace Corps
- Teach for America
- AmeriCorps
- U.S. Military
Featured Courses
Student Opportunities
![Model UN](https://i0.wp.com/test.truman.edu/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Model-UN.jpg?fit=300%2C157&ssl=1)
Model United Nations
Participation in Model U.N., an academic simulation of a session of the United Nations, provides a chance for you to acquire expertise on working with others to solve problems.
![Truman's Undergraduate Research Conference](https://i0.wp.com/test.truman.edu/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/BACKGROUND-c-Student-Research-Conference-c.jpg?fit=300%2C200&ssl=1)
Research
You can build strong research skills by collaborating with a professor or engaging in your own research. Many students present their research projects at Truman's Student Research Conference or at annual meetings of regional and national professional associations.
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Student Organizations
Expand your network by joining student groups such as Pi Sigma Alpha, a national honor society; Student Senate; College Democrats at Truman; and Truman State College Republicans.
![Paris, France](https://i0.wp.com/test.truman.edu/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/FL-Study-Abroad-in-Paris-France-w2.jpg?fit=300%2C172&ssl=1)
Study Abroad
Join students who have studied abroad in countries like France, Britain, Spain, Greece, Australia, China, The Czech Republic, Northern Ireland, other locations.