Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Government
With an annual tuition of just $17,000, our B.A. in Government offers exceptional value.
Learn how power is structured, how decisions are made in society and how citizens can influence change.
MC Webinar Series: BA in Government
Hear from program directors about why the program was created, the career and graduate school paths it supports and the many opportunities for hands-on learning through internships, co-ops, study abroad, service projects and research.
Government Degree at a Glance
Program Type
Major
Mode of Study
On Campus
Co-op/
Internship
Guaranteed
Est. Time
4 Years
Start Terms
Fall, Spring
Cost: $17K
School
Accreditation
Tell Me More About Merrimack's Government Major
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Fall Open House
Sunday, December 7, 2025
from 10:30 am
to 3:30 pm
Learn more about our academic schools and programs, take an in-depth campus tour and meet members of our community! Open House attendees are eligible for on-the-spot admission decisions and an automatic $1,000 visit grant.
The Government Major
Introducing our innovative Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Government — a reimagined liberal arts degree designed for the challenges of today and tomorrow. This interdisciplinary program blends the study of government with essential, transferable skills like critical thinking, problem-solving and adaptability. Whether you’re preparing for a dynamic career or advanced study, this major offers a strong intellectual foundation and a competitive edge in a rapidly changing world – all for $17,000 annual tuition.
What You'll Study
Prepare to study theories and approaches to political systems, institutions and operations. Our flexible options for concentrations allows you to build interdisciplinary expertise and skill sets for engaging with governments as citizens, professionals and decision makers in a range of fields.
Political Science
History
Government Institutions and Influences
Challenges and Problem Solving in Government
Skills You'll Learn
Focused on the study of political systems, public policy, law, political theory and international relations, you’ll develop valuable skills that set you up for success post-grad!
Research Skills
Quantitative and Technology Skills
Public Speaking, Communication and Presentation Skills
Applied Learning
Government Concentrations
Select a concentration by completing five or more courses in 18 study areas, each emphasizing essential skills. All concentrations culminate in a year-long research experience designed to refine problem-solving, data gathering and analysis and presentation skills. Additionally, all Merrimack students earn a concentration or minor as part of their core curriculum, allowing government majors to add complementary minors in areas such as philosophy, public policy or social justice.
Concentrations Include:
- Communication
- Cybersecurity
- Data Science
- Economics
- Environmental Policy
- Ethics
- History and Government
- International Studies
- Leadership
- Management
- Organizational Dynamics
- Political Science
- Pre-Law
- Public Administration
- Public Health
- Public Relations
- Sociology
- Teacher Education: History and Society
Political Science
Concentration
The Political Science concentration explores how power, policy and people interact within governments and societies. Sharpen your analytical and communication skills while examining political behavior, global relations and decision-making—preparing you for careers in public policy and more.
Pre-Law
Concentration
The Pre-Law concentration prepares students for law school or a law-related career and includes a required hands-on experience such as Moot Court or internship. You’ll develop an exposure to law through the lenses of society, government, business, criminal justice and political ethics.
History and Government Concentration
The History and Government concentration examines how events, political systems and public policies shape the world today. Strengthen your critical thinking and communication skills while exploring leadership and civic engagement—key foundations for careers in public service and beyond.
These are just three examples of what to expect when enrolling in the Government degree.
Government Courses You'll Take
Politics of
the US
POL 1100
An introduction to the American political system, this course examines the Constitutional basis of American politics and the national institutions that are involved in decision-making and public debate (for example, the Presidency and the bureaucracy, the Federal Courts, the Congress, political parties and the media). The course covers issues and the processes by which those issues are resolved.
Campaigns and
Elections
POL 3130
This course undertakes an in-depth study of campaigns and voting in the United States. We will examine elections from the perspectives of candidates, political parties, interest groups, the media, political consultants and voters. In addition, we will address some basic questions about elections in America: What are the rules? Who wins and why? Why do people vote or not vote?
SEnior
Seminar
POL 4800
This course is designed to be flexible and relevant to your own particular interests and path. We will cover basic aspects of the discipline of Political Science and your own studies. The course is built around an independent research project designed to integrate and build on your training and developed interests. Finally, we will also engage in job and future academic career preparation.
See All Courses & Options Available to Government Majors
Government Major Requirements
General Education Requirements
In addition to the major requirements below, you will also need to complete Merrimack’s general education requirements. To see more details about the major, please visit catalog.merrimack.edu.Why Choose the Bachelor of Arts in Government?
Merrimack’s government major is designed to open doors for you in whatever career path you choose, thanks to its multitude of concentration options!
EXCEPTIONAL VALUE
With an annual tuition of just $17,000 (excluding fees, room and board)—48% less than the average U.S. private institution tuition in 2024—our B.A. in Government delivers outstanding value.
HIGH RETURN ON INVESTMENT
Our program is designed to help you achieve your career goals or continue to graduate school after graduation.
MARKET ALIGNED
Acquire essential skills in critical thinking, problem-solving and adaptability, preparing you for the job markets of tomorrow.
VARIED CONCENTRATIONS
Select from over a dozen disciplinary and skill-focused areas, such as international studies, law and policy or pre-law.
COMMUNITY AND COHORT EXPERIENCE
Advance through the program with a cohort, building peer support and forming lifelong friendships.
Career Outlook: Where Can a Government Degree Take You?
Career Outcomes Rate
93% of the undergraduate class of 2024 in Arts & Sciences were either employed, participating in voluntary service or continuing their education within nine months of graduation.
Experiential Learning
90% of the undergraduate class of 2024 participated in at least one internship, co-op, clinical, practicum or research opportunity while at Merrimack.
Graduate School
Merrimack, New England School of Law, George Washington University and Boston College are just some of the graduate programs Arts & Sciences graduates are attending.
Jobs with a Government Degree
Upon completing our program, you’ll be well-equipped to pursue graduate study or a career in government and related disciplines. Positions may include:
- Law School
- Political Consulting
- Journalism
- Diplomacy
- International Relations
- Healthcare Administration
Where Merrimack [PROGRAM NAME Graduates Work & Intern
Boston Children's Hospital
Postdoctoral Researcher
Brookhaven Hospice
Social Worker
Harvard Business Publishing
Client Services Specialist
Fulbright Scholar Program
Fellowship, Nepal
Northeast Arc - Andover
Internship - Disabilities
St. Ann's Home - Methuen
Internship - Disabilities
Windrush Farm - Boxford
Internship - Equine Therapy
Crest Collab. - Andover
Internship - Inclusive Ed.
Beyond the Classroom
Student Life
You’ll have endless opportunities to find your fit, get involved and pursue what makes you happy—all while making lifelong friends (and memories!).
Explore your passions alongside others with similar interests, whether that means a cappella singing or outdoor adventuring.
- 80+ student organizations
- Division I Athletics, club and intramural sports
- Beloved traditions like Homecoming, Block Party and Spring Concert
- Fraternities and sororities
Internships & Co-Ops
Our students gain valuable work experience and connections with leading companies through guaranteed internships and the Warriors at Work co-op program. Recent placements include:
- Interning with Homeland Security Investigations, shadowing special agents
- Interning at Delta Tech-Ops, working in components engineering
- Working as a tax intern at Baker Tilly
Research with Faculty
With access to cutting-edge tools, undergraduate students can collaborate with faculty on research projects that can lead to presentations and publications.
- Explore the complexities of the human mind in a state-of-the-art psychology lab.
- Understand how inflammation affects immune cell aging in our Shared Instrumentation and Research Facility.
- Build fully functional battle bots for competitions.
Study Abroad
Global Merrimack provides transformative, once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
Our 30+ study abroad programs include semesters abroad, faculty-led trips and international internships.
- Explore and study in the Dominican Republic or Iceland.
- Immerse yourself in cities like Dublin, Madrid or Rome.
- Experience a semester at sea or intern in vibrant cities like London or Paris.
Service Learning
Community and service are at the heart of our Augustinian mission.
Over 1,000 students work together to engage in hands-on service learning projects each year, supporting our communities and those in need.
- Participate in our campus-wide Mack Gives Back volunteer days.
- Spend your winter, spring, or summer break on an immersive SEND trip in the U.S. or abroad, helping those in need.
- Tutor students in nearby school districts.
See for Yourself
Humanities Faculty & Staff
Our faculty members are dedicated to student success. They bring their real-world experience into the classroom and offer personalized academic support.
Programs Related to the Government Major
Explore other areas and where they can take you.
Take the Next Step (We're Here to Help)
At Merrimack, we are ready to meet you where you are and get you where you want to go. And, we make the process simple along the way!
Upcoming Events
Info Session & Campus Tour
Monday-Friday & Most Saturdays
Attend a 20-minute info session led by an admission counselor and then take a student-led campus tour. Registration is required.
Merrimack College Awards & Recognition
U.S. News & World Report | Best Regional Universities North (2026)
- Most Innovative Schools (#8)
- Regional Universities North (#38)
- Best Undergraduate Teaching (#20)
- Best Colleges for Veterans (#16)
- Best Value Schools (#52)
Tell Me More About Merrimack's Government Major
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Students will take at least sixteen courses in the Government major: eight core courses, at least five for the chosen concentration and three skills courses. Core courses give students foundational knowledge and critical thinking, communication, and analytical skills related to the study of government. All students start with the required introductory course, Introduction to Government.
Students take at least one introductory course from Political Science and one from History.
Political Science course options (pick one course):
- Politics of the US
- Public Administration and Public Policy
- Comparative Politics
- International Politics
- Introduction to Political Theory
History course options (pick one course):
- US History: Reconstruction to Present
- European Experience: Early Modern to Present
- World History since 1500
Students then take at least four upper level specialized courses. They will pick two from each category:
Government Institutions and Influences (pick two courses):
- American Political Thought
- Presidency and Congress
- Campaigns and Elections
- American Constitutional Law
- US Foreign Policy
- Issues and Cases in US Foreign Policy
- American City
- World History Post 1945
Challenges and Problem Solving (pick two courses):
- History of the Middle East
- Women in European History
- Communism, Fascism, and Wars
- US Civil War
- Politics of Food
- Cyber Security
- Political Ethics
- Civil Liberties and Civil Rights
- Government, Business, and Law
- Citizenship, Politics, and Law
- Sociology of Immigration
Students must take the final major core course in their senior year, the Senior Seminar. This course allows students to pull together their core major courses, concentrations, and selected skills course options in a capstone project.