It takes more than a desire to make a difference in the world — it takes an in-depth understanding of the policies and politics that impact communities, as well as the ability to approach those issues with an analytical mindset.
As a political science major at Marietta, you will take courses in wide-ranging fields such as American politics, public policy, international politics, and political theory. You’ll learn to evaluate the controversial issues of political life and relate them to ethical decisions.
Along the way, you'll apply what you're learning through internships, study abroad, and/or our Washington Semester program. What better place to study American politics and government than the nation’s capital? You’ll meet leaders in government and the private sector as you tailor your time in D.C. with internships and individual research projects.
What You’ll Learn as a Political Science Major
Marietta College’s Political Science program educates students on how to look at politics from a broader context than what is shown in the media. Our versatile faculty offer courses in the sub-fields of American Politics, World Politics, Comparative Politics, and Political Theory. Throughout the program, students examine the purposes and problems of politics and evaluate many of the controversial issues of political life. They also assess different viewpoints about the world community, analyzing political issues and relating them to ethical decisions. Additionally, students take courses in research methods and complete original research projects for their Capstone, which provides them with valuable academic and professional skills.
Experiential Education
All Political Science majors complete an internship, a study abroad program, or the Washington Semester program. Internship opportunities have included working at law firms, participating in political campaigns, and serving in national, state, and local government offices. These experiences help students apply their formal studies and prepare for law school, graduate studies in public policy, or careers in business, government, or education.
Moot Court is an extracurricular activity where students simulate court proceedings, typically focusing on appellate court cases. Participants develop skills in legal research, writing, and oral advocacy while engaging with complex legal questions and practicing courtroom procedures.
Co-Curricular Activities
- College Republicans and College Democrats are student-run organizations that represent the respective political ideologies of the Republican and Democratic parties. These groups engage students in political discourse, advocacy, and activism through events, campaigns, and discussions on government policy, elections, and party platforms.
- Model United Nations (MUN) is an academic simulation where students role-play as delegates representing different countries in mock sessions of the United Nations. Participants engage in debates, negotiations, and drafting resolutions on global issues such as international security, human rights, and environmental concerns. MUN helps students develop skills in diplomacy, public speaking, research, and critical thinking while fostering a deeper understanding of international relations.
Honor Society
Marietta College's chapter of Pi Sigma Alpha, the national political science honor society, recognizes students for outstanding achievement in political science. Founded in 1920, Pi Sigma Alpha promotes academic excellence and fosters a network for students and scholars dedicated to advancing the discipline.
Pre-Law Program
Marietta’s Pre-Law Program is open to all students, regardless of major. This highly successful program helps students prepare for success with LSATs, as well as the interview process for acceptance to law school.
Pre-Law Partnerships
Marietta College has accelerated 3+3 juris doctorate programs with the University of Toledo College of Law and Cleveland-Marshall College of Law at Cleveland State University.
- Outcomes — Internships
- Congressional Black Caucus
- U.S. State Department
- U.S. Senator Bob Casey’s Constituent Services Office
- Marietta Main Street
- Marietta Municipal Court
- Antonoplos & Associates Law Firm
- Washington County (Ohio) Prosecutor’s Office
- Outcomes — Professions
- POLITICO — Publishing and Intelligence Specialist
- Ohio Department of Public Safety — Intelligence Analyst
- California Department of Justice — Graduate Legal Assistant
- United Way of Summit County — AmeriCorps VISTA
- Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton LLP — Associate Attorney
- Office of the Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives — District Outreach Representative
- Reed Smith LLP — Partner
- Foundation for Appalachian Ohio — Programs Coordinator
- U.S. Army JAG Corps
- The Lukens Company — Vice President, Political Division
- John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts — Development Manager
- Peace Corps — English Teacher
- Outcomes — Graduate Programs
- American University
- Georgetown University
- Maxwell School of Syracuse University
- Texas A&M University Bush School of Government
- University of Kentucky
- Outcomes — Law School
- University of Michigan Law School
- Howard University Law School
- University of Pittsburgh Law School
- University of Richmond Law School
- Michigan State University College of Law
- West Virginia University Law School
- University of Buffalo Law School
- William & Mary Law School
FAQs
- Can I study abroad as a Political Science major?
Yes! We encourage our students to have a well-rounded undergraduate education experience, including study abroad. There are also domestic opportunities like an Alternative Spring Break or job shadows.
- Does the department accept AP credit toward the major?
The department recognizes the accomplishments of students who have AP credit. Any student who scores a 3 in AP Comparative Government and Politics will get credit for POLS 120. Any student who scores a 3 in AP United States Government and Politics will get credit for POLS 103.