Political Science

Political science explores national and international government systems and social institutions, and how they interact with each other.

“The term in Washington D.C. really helped me put my interest in political science in a career perspective. Working on the Hill allowed me to cement my interest in foreign affairs and begin to see how my studies fit into the larger fabric of Washington.”
- Christine Liang

Christine Liang '16

Hallmarks of Union's program include:

Small classes where you get to know your peers and professors
Dedicated faculty who engage students through diverse courses
Field learning that offers real-life political experience
Special research projects that allow you to delve into a topic that fascinates you
Intricate simulations of the political process (Model United Nations, U.S. Congress, presidential elections)

Your academic journey begins with courses that provide a strong foundation in U.S. politics, global politics and political thought. Then explore a range of research methods, political theory, comparative politics, international affairs and U.S. politics in a wide variety of advanced courses.

Other learning opportunities

Your faculty-mentored independent research may focus on political action, political art or applied public policy. Working closely with local organizations, you’ll have a chance to influence community politics. Students have become part of the political process by evaluating the Schenectady County Drug Court and writing a juvenile justice reform proposal.

Internships are a vital part of your education. The Political Science Department runs internship programs in Albany with the New York State Legislature and in Washington, D.C. There are also continuing internships with government agencies in Schenectady County, including the public defender, district attorney, social services agency, advocacy groups and non-profit organizations.

To develop a global perspective, political science majors complete a foreign experience requirement. You can study a language or participate in one of Union's many full terms abroad.

The Pi Sigma Alpha chapter of the National Political Science Honor Society sponsors a number of speakers, panel discussions and activities. The popular Pizza & Politics series features leading experts on a range of topics, from environmental issues and feminism to human rights activism. Some students contribute to The Pi Sigma Alpha Undergraduate Journal of Politics, the premier national student research publication in the field.

A sampling of courses

Music and Politics

The relationships between music and politics with a focus on music as a lens to perceive the world; the political context in which critically significant music is produced; artist biographies; the impact of class, race, ethnicity and gender on music; political messages in music and the consequences of popular music.

The Supreme Court and Judicial Politics

An investigation of the judicial branch of government in the U.S. that focuses on the role of judges, the functioning of courts, and leading contemporary controversies in the judicial system. Many actual Supreme Court cases are dissected, focusing on such issues as gay rights, pornography, rights of disabled citizens, the rights of those accused of crimes and free speech over the Internet.

Introduction to Global Politics

An overview of the dynamics that shape politics in different regions and how global actors impact each other. Topics may include war, terrorism, political economy, history, nation-building and ecology.

After Union

As a political science major, you will gain versatile skills in verbal and written expression, reading comprehension, analytical reasoning, debating and careful analysis of complex topics. This will prepare you for careers in government service, law, business, education and journalism; working with international and/or nonprofit organizations; and involvement in community programs, political movements and elected office.

Here is what some of our alumni have been up to: