Political Science (Honors)
The Bachelor of Arts in Political Science (Honors) with a concentration in Public Policy at University of Stanford offers students a deeply analytical and research-focused exploration of how political systems, institutions, and policies shape societal outcomes. In the early years of the program, learners build a strong foundation in political theory, policy formation, and comparative political behavior, gaining the tools needed to interpret complex governance structures. These introductory courses introduce students to policy analysis, institutional theory, quantitative research, and public decision-making, allowing them to understand how political choices evolve and affect different populations. Throughout these formative stages, the program encourages students to evaluate the role of political actors, examine historical influences, and connect theoretical frameworks with contemporary issues.
As students progress into upper-level coursework, the honors structure provides a more intensive academic experience through advanced seminars, guided research, and deeper engagement with policy evaluation. Students investigate areas such as regulatory processes, social policy design, political strategy, and evidence-based governance, developing the ability to conduct independent research and contribute to scholarly debates. Through mentorship, thesis preparation, and interdisciplinary learning opportunities, learners enhance their research competence, policy insight, critical interpretation, and analytical depth, preparing them to navigate political and administrative environments with informed judgment. By graduation, students are equipped with the intellectual foundation and methodological expertise required for influential roles in public affairs or further academic study.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Political Science (Honors)
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 05 January 2026
- Location: Stanford University, United States
- Field of Study: Public Policy
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Foundations in Politics and Policy
• Introduction to Political Science
• Principles of Public Policy
• Comparative Political Systems
• Research and Writing for the Social Sciences
• Introduction to Data Analysis
Year 2 – Core Political and Policy Methods
• Public Administration
• Political Theory and Ideologies
• Methods of Policy Evaluation
• Statistics for Political Research
• Seminar: Contemporary Policy Debates
Year 3 – Advanced Policy Studies and Honors Preparation
• Governance and Regulatory Systems
• Public Budgeting and Finance
• Policy Implementation and Assessment
• Political Strategy and Decision-Making
• Electives in Social Policy, Development, or Law
Year 4 – Honors Research and Advanced Inquiry
• Honors Thesis Research I
• Honors Thesis Research II
• Advanced Topics in Public Policy
• Seminar in Political Analysis
• Specialized Electives in Policy Design or International Governance
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are prepared for roles in government agencies, policy research institutes, non-governmental organizations, advocacy groups, legislative offices, and private-sector organizations that engage in political strategy or policy development. The program’s emphasis on structured analysis, policy evaluation, research methodology, and institutional understanding equips students for positions such as policy analyst, legislative researcher, public affairs coordinator, program evaluator, or governance consultant. Additionally, the honors component strengthens academic preparation for those pursuing law school or graduate studies in public policy, political science, or related social science fields.
Why Choose This Program
This program is ideal for students who seek a deeper, research-oriented understanding of how policies are crafted, debated, and implemented across political systems. Its honors structure promotes rigorous inquiry, evidence-based reasoning, intellectual independence, and scholarly engagement, enabling students to analyze public issues with sophistication and clarity. With access to advanced seminars, faculty mentorship, and comprehensive research opportunities, learners gain both the theoretical grounding and practical tools necessary to shape meaningful discussions on governance, public welfare, and political decision-making.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 650 000 0000
Email: admissions@standord.edu
Address: University of Standord, 450 Serra Mall, Stanford, CA 94305, United States
