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.
Major
On Campus
Guaranteed
4 Years
Fall, Spring
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At our Spring Open House, you'll attend academic breakout sessions, connect with members of our community, and take a tour of our beautiful New England campus.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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?
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.
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.
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.
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.
90% of the undergraduate class of 2023 participated in at least one internship, co-op, clinical, practicum or research opportunity while at Merrimack
Merrimack, New England School of Law, George Washington University and Boston College are just some of the graduate programs Arts & Sciences graduates are attending.
Upon completing our program, you’ll be well-equipped to pursue graduate study or a career political science and related disciplines. Positions may include:
Analyst
Attorney General
Director
Legislative Aid
State Senator
Research Assistant
Prosecutor
Judicial Law Clerk
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.
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:
With access to cutting-edge tools, undergraduate students can collaborate with faculty on research projects that can lead to presentations and publications.
Global Merrimack provides transformative, once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
Our 30+ study abroad programs include semesters abroad, faculty-led trips and international internships.
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.
Our faculty members are dedicated to student success. They bring their real-world experience into the classroom and offer personalized academic support.
Explore other areas and where they can take you.
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!
Attend a 20-minute info session led by an admission counselor and then take a student-led campus tour. Registration is required.
At our Open House, you’ll get an overview of Merrimack with an introduction to your academic school. You’ll meet Merrimack faculty, students and community members and receive a limited-edition T-shirt as our thank you for coming to campus!
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Merrimack College students are teaching robots to dance, read and interact with the greater community.
