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Political Science, B.A.

Political Science, B.A.

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As a political science major, you will study American politics, law, comparative politics, international relations and methods. You will analyze how power is exercised at the local, state, national and international levels and how these processes impact individual lives.

The major is informed by commitments to justice and reconciliation, as reflected by our department motto, "Do Justice; Love Mercy," based on the Bible verse Micah 6:8. Through classroom study, internships, off-campus opportunities and research projects, you will be challenged to develop both the tools and the vision for understanding, nurturing and transforming society.

Why major in political science at Whitworth?

  • Get to know your professors inside and outside of the classroom. You can conduct research with faculty or apply to work as a teaching assistant. You'll also be invited to interact with faculty informally over coffee or meals, and at gatherings in their homes.
  • Gain real-world experience through a required internship and several study-abroad options.
  • Connect your faith or worldview to your learning, and consider how it will affect your vocation. You will be encouraged to think about the link between faith and public life in every course. And you will go in depth in courses such as Faith & Politics and Vocations in Political Science.
  • Develop the skills needed to engage in public life, such as writing and speaking in ways that invite robust and civil dialogue.
  • Build transferable skills that are valuable in many career fields. Learn to think critically, conduct rigorous research, communicate clearly and listen well.
  • Take a variety of courses, from Modern Congress and African Politics to the Politics of Inequality and Human Rights. You will delve deeper into topics that interest you. The bulk of required credits will be courses of your choice.
  • Build community within the department through special events like an annual pizza gathering, film viewings and policy discussions on current issues.
  • Become who you're meant to be.
Headshot of Sophie St Jacques.
The political science faculty has made a lasting impact on me. Being part of a small department means professors truly know their students not just by name, but by strengths, interests and potential. They challenge us academically and encourage us personally. They don't try to fit you into a mold; instead, they help you build your own.
Sophie St. Jacques '27
What it's Like
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A row of trees stands at the end of a field covered in multi-colored autumn leaves.

Ask our faculty

Have questions? Our faculty are here to share their expertise and help you learn more about this program.

Ask Professor Hershey

mhershey@whitworth.edu

Professor of Political Science Megan Hershey's areas of expertise include African politics, comparative politics and international development.

Faculty Page

Our political science grads make a difference (and get jobs)

Our graduates are prepared for a wide range of careers and graduate school programs. Many political science graduates have chosen careers in government and politics, law, and nonprofit organizations. Others have built careers in business, the military, journalism, ministry or missions, and education. Several have gone into higher education in particular, both as administrators and as faculty members.

Recent job placements include:

  • Jillian Hines, security administrator, United States Senate, Washington, D.C.
  • Coleen Hogan, program manager, U.S. Trade and Development Agency, Washington, D.C.
  • Chloe Becker, manager for state legislative affairs, Portland General Electric, Portland, Ore.
  • Jeff Debray, legislative affairs, ACLU of Washington State
  • Caleb Crary, ELA teacher, Teach for America Corp member, Brainerd High School, Chattanooga, Tenn.
  • Annika Davis, IT project manager, Intact Technology, Reston, Va.
  • Corey Newman, captain, Spokane Fire Department, Spokane
  • Josh Seiersen, director of tenant services, A Tiny Home for Good, Syracuse, N.Y.

Our recent political science grads further their studies in top graduate programs at institutions including:

  • Harvard Law School
  • Yale Law School
  • University of Washington
  • Princeton Theological Seminary
  • UCLA School of Law
  • University of San Diego
  • American University
  • Georgetown University School of Law
  • American University School of Law
  • Pepperdine School of Law

Opportunities outside the classroom

  • Gain hands-on experience through an internship. One is required, but many students choose to do more. Options available through the department include a semester-long internship in Washington, D.C., or an internship in Olympia with the Washington State Legislature.
  • Perform research under a professor’s supervision and present it at the Spokane Intercollegiate Research Conference.
  • Join the award-winning forensics or Ethics Bowl teams, open to all majors. These speech and debate programs promote the exchange of ideas and the development of public-speaking skills.
  • Analyze what you’re learning and write and publish an opinion piece. Students have published pieces on faith and politics, as well as on other policy areas.
  • Apply for a competitive award to study abroad. Our students have been awarded Fulbright English Teaching Awards, Boren Scholarships and Critical Language Scholarships.

Pack your bags!

Whitworth professors lead a variety of off-campus programs that include the study of politics. Recent destinations have included South Africa, Tanzania, Central America and Ireland. Political science students are also encouraged to study independently as international exchange students. Our students have recently studied in Brussels, Cuba, New Zealand, Spain and Malta.

What related degrees and programs can I explore?

Program information