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Political Science
The Bachelor of Arts in Political Science at Brown University is a four-year, full-time, on-campus program that provides students with a comprehensive understanding of governance, power, and political behavior at local, national, and global levels. The curriculum examines the structures and functions of political systems, the evolution of political thought, and the impact of law, institutions, and ideologies on society. Through rigorous training in analytical reasoning, research methods, and theoretical frameworks, students learn to critically assess policies, political actors, and global developments.
Brown’s open curriculum allows political science students to explore the discipline through a variety of lenses, including comparative politics, international relations, American government, and political theory. Students are encouraged to engage in internships, independent research, and study abroad programs that deepen their understanding of real-world political dynamics. With access to faculty who are active scholars and policy experts, students gain insight into current issues such as democracy, conflict, climate governance, and human rights—preparing them to become informed participants in public life and thoughtful analysts of political systems.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Political Science
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 05 January 2026
- Location: Brown University, United States
- Field of Study: Political Science
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Foundations of Political Inquiry
- Introduction to Political Science
- Comparative Politics or American Government
- Political Theory: Justice and Democracy
- Elective: Political Economy or Global Affairs
Year 2 – Core Topics and Methods
- International Relations or Law and Public Policy
- Quantitative Methods for Political Analysis
- Elective: Race, Politics, and Society
- Seminar: Political Institutions and Reform
Year 3 – Specialization and Application
- Advanced Topics in Global Politics or Political Theory
- Independent Research or Study Abroad
- Internship in Government, NGO, or Legal Sector
- Elective: Environmental Politics, Security Studies, or Human Rights
Year 4 – Capstone and Thesis Work
- Senior Seminar in Political Analysis
- Honors Thesis or Policy Research Project
- Advanced Elective in Chosen Subfield
- Public Presentation or Policy Brief Portfolio
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Political Science program pursue careers that require analytical thinking, public engagement, and institutional knowledge. Common paths include roles in government, nonprofit advocacy, law, international relations, and public policy, where alumni work as legislative assistants, policy analysts, foreign service officers, campaign strategists, and legal researchers. Others go on to earn advanced degrees in political science, public administration, international affairs, or law. The program’s strong focus on research, argumentation, and data interpretation also equips graduates for positions in journalism, consulting, education, or political risk analysis. With their understanding of how political decisions are made and implemented, alumni are well-positioned to lead change in public institutions, private enterprises, and civic organizations alike.
Why Choose This Program
This program offers a powerful combination of intellectual depth, practical relevance, and interdisciplinary flexibility, ideal for students who want to understand and influence the world through political systems. Brown University’s open curriculum encourages students to connect political science with fields like economics, history, philosophy, or environmental studies, fostering well-rounded insight into policy and governance. Faculty mentorship, research opportunities, and access to political events and guest lectures enhance learning inside and outside the classroom. Whether your goal is to shape legislation, advocate for social justice, analyze international conflict, or pursue a legal career, this program provides the knowledge, skills, and perspective to lead in public life.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 401 863 1000
Email: admissions@brown.edu
Address: University of Brown, Providence, RI 02912, United States
