Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Political Science
Get a competitive edge in the job market by completing an internship with a local law firm, municipality or spend a semester studying in Washington, D.C.
As a political science major at Merrimack College, you’ll dive into how politics actually works—learning about world leaders, government decisions and the big issues shaping both local and global conflicts.
Political Science Degree at a Glance
Program Type
Major
Mode of Study
On Campus
Internship
Guaranteed
Est. Time
4 Years
Start Terms
Fall, Spring
Cost
School
Accreditation
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The Political Science Major
Study how governments work, how power is distributed and how decisions are made in politics. If you major in political science, you’ll learn about everything from political systems, laws and policies to elections, international relations and social justice movements.
Understanding the forces that shape society and the world, and how individuals and groups influence change. Explore the why and how behind what’s happening in politics from local government to global issues.
What You'll Study
As a political science major, you’ll break down political issues from all angles connecting them to real-world theories and experiences. You’ll dive deep into the big questions about law, justice, government and what it means to be human. You can gain hands-on experience through an internship in government or a related field. As a Warriors at Work major, you’re guaranteed a six month paid co-op while staying on track to graduate in four years.
Politics of the U.S.
Political Science Methods
Political Ethics
Law and Society
Business and Law
Criminal Law
U.S. Foreign Policy
Civil Liberties
Politics of the Middle East
Cyber Security
Skills You'll Learn
Being a political science major teaches you a ton of valuable skills that go beyond just understanding politics. Be prepared to level up your writing and critical thinking skills, helping you become a more informed, engaged and active member of society.
Problem Solving
Interpersonal Skills
Research Skills
Ethical Reasoning
Cultural Sensitivity
Semester in D.C.
Political Science majors at Merrimack can choose to study in Washington, D.C. for one semester. Students may spend a semester at the American University Washington Semester Program. Students participate in internships (for credit) three days per week and take classes at American University two days per week. Most students plan to study in Washington, D.C. or to study abroad during one semester their Junior year.
Political Science Courses You'll Take
Comparative
Politics
POL 1500
This course examines a variety of important issues, such as why are some countries democratic while others are not, what is a state and how did states come about, what is colonialism and how did it shape the present and future of billions of people?
Political
Ethics
POL 2010
The course provides a foundation in ethics, ethical theory, and their application to political institutions and the political process. The course covers the ethical issues and implications faced by politicians, elected officials and government employees.
Law
and Society
POL 2122
An introductory course in law that examines the theoretical and practical aspects of the law and its impact on individuals and society, it covers the history and sources of U.S. law, the difference between substantive, procedural, criminal, and civil law, and more.
See All Courses & Options Available to Political Science Majors
Political Science 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.Sample Four-Year Schedule - Curriculum Guide
Political Science Students In the Classroom & Beyond
When it comes to career readiness, we believe getting outside of the classroom is key. At Merrimack, you’ll complement your coursework with experiences like guaranteed internships, co-ops, service learning or faculty-led research projects.
Political Science & Pre Law Major
Political Science & History Major
Career Outlook: Where Can a Political Science Degree Take You?
Career Outcomes Rate
94% of the undergraduate class of 2023 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 2023 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 Political Science Degree
Upon completing our program, you’ll be well-equipped to pursue graduate study or a career political science and related disciplines. Positions may include:
- Legislative Assistant
- Policy Analyst
- City Planner
- Public Affairs Specialist
- Development Officer
- Compliance Officer
- Lawyer
- Trade Specialist
Where Merrimack Political Science Graduates Work & Intern
Library of Congress
Analyst
State of Vermont
Attorney General
Lowell
Planning Board
Director
U.S. Congress
Legislative Aid
State of Massachusetts
State Senator
Citizens for the Constitution
Research Assistant
Tewksbury Police Department
Prosecutor
New Hampshire Superior Court
Judicial Law Clerk
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.
- 70+ 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
Programs Related to the Political Science 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 (2024)
- Most Innovative Schools (#5)
- Regional Universities North (#39)
- Best Undergraduate Teaching (#19)
- Best Colleges for Veterans (#15)
- Best Value Schools (#51)
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