Welcome to Political Science. The Political Science program is designed to enhance a student's liberal arts education and to develop an understanding of government and the political process in the United States and in the world. Political science is a flexible major that prepares students for careers in law, government, public service, teaching, journalism, non-profit organizations, international organizations, and business and labor organizations. (An additional graduate or professional degree is often required for professional careers in fields such as law and teaching.)

For students interested in public service, including government service, work with non-profit organizations, and work in international affairs, our department offers many courses in public policy, public administration, and international relations. These courses will enable students to learn how public agencies (local, state, and federal), non-profit organizations, and international organizations operate.

While no prescribed pre-law course of study is required for admission to law school, political science is the traditional undergraduate major that many, if not most, pre-law students select. It should be supplemented by courses in English writing, critical and logical reasoning (philosophy and mathematics courses), and economics. For pre-law students majoring in political science, there are there are many Law and Politics courses offered in the political science major, as well as related courses in departments such as Philosophy and Economics. Students majoring in other disciplines should consider one of the minors in Political Science.

The Political Science Department also prepares students for careers in teaching, business, social and political research, journalism, and elected political office at the local, state, or federal level. Students interested in secondary or elementary school teaching should consult with the School of Education for information about programs leading to New York State teacher certification.

Internship opportunities are available to students in federal, state, and city government, as well as in non-profit, and international organizations. Lehman College credit is given for approved programs. Students also may spend one semester in Albany on a paid internship organized by the New York State Legislature. Students receive credit for a full-time program during the spring semester and attend courses offered in Albany.