Making A Difference

THE POLITICAL SCIENCE DEPARTMENT

for people who care to matter

Political Science empowers students to be informed consumers of information and engaged global citizens, competitive in a range of careers. The Political Science Department at KSU is committed to equipping students with a range of skills critical for success in the contemporary global market. Our coursework is designed to foster sophisticated critical thinking and policy analysis skills as well as hone writing and communication skills. Students graduate with an advanced understanding of local, national, and international dynamics that impact our everyday lives, and - importantly - understand how they as individuals participate in those dynamics. This means that our alumni are capable of “being the change they wish to see in the world,” as Gandhi put it. For students who are looking to make a difference in their own neighborhoods or in the global community, political science at KSU is the place to be.

For undergraduates, the Political Science Department houses two degree programs and four concentrations. Students can earn a BA with a major or a minor in Political Science or in Applied Conflict Management. Those who major in Political Science can choose from three concentrations — International Relations/Comparative Politics, American Politics, or Public Policy — or pursue a general degree in Political Science. Our faculty are nationally recognized and well-published in the field, bringing their research expertise directly into the classroom. We also offer the mentoring and advising critical to student success.  

In addition to rigorous, relevant curriculum and valuable career skills, the Political Science Department also offers two fifteen-credit hour internship opportunities with our Washington Program in National Issues in Washington, D.C. and Columbus Program in Intergovernmental Issues in Columbus, Ohio. Students accepted into these competitive programs are well-prepared by our program directors for the career experience they will gain during their semesters off-campus. Student interns gain real-world, hands-on experience that makes them extremely competitive on the job market and well-prepared for career success. We also offer three credit hours for students who wish to pursue internships closer to home.

For the student seeking study abroad opportunities, Dr. Cassell (Political Science) and Dr. Steigmann-Gall (History) co-teach a three-week course in Germany each summer. Many of our students also often intern with the Geneva Program or Florence Program, both run out of KSU’s Global Studies office. These programs offer remarkable opportunities to travel and study, while still earning credits towards KSU undergraduate degrees.

Alumni of the Political Science program at Kent State University are a particular source of pride. Our graduates have gone on to successful and fulfilling careers in the private and public sectors, and make an impact on their communities in a range of ways. To learn about how our former students are using their talents and skills supporting refugee populations, leading government agencies, assisting with foreign policy implementation, and working as lawyers, consultants or teachers, scroll through our alumni bios. You will see the many ways our graduates are making a difference!