Why Major in Political Science?
The Political Science Major is designed for those wanting a basic education in the liberal arts, students preparing for a career that require knowledge of governance and the political process, such as law, and students contemplating graduate study in political science, public administration and nonprofit management or a related discipline.
Studying political science offers students a broad liberal arts education along with a comprehensive understanding of the nature and functioning of the political process.
What Is Political Science?
Don’t just take our word for it – hear it from Crash Course and the Princeton Review!
Outlook
According to EduRank, UNCG is ranked as the top school in Greensboro for political science, #6 in North Carolina overall, and #143 in the United States. Additionally, universities.com places UNCG among the top political science colleges in North Carolina, offering a diverse range of political science degree
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), entry-level salaries are competitive, with starting pay often exceeding $65,000, depending on the role and industry, significantly above the U.S. median for all occupations ($48,060).
A study by the National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER) found that political science, stands out as a field with relatively moderate instructional costs compared to high-cost majors like engineering, yet still provides robust earning potential and significant societal value. (2017)
Quotable
“Whatever career path we choose, political science is going to prepare us for one of our central roles in life. It’s important for us to understand our rights and obligations within a political system because you can’t go anywhere without escaping duties as a citizen.”
Source: “What Can You Do With a Political Science Degree?” U.S. News & World Report, January 19, 2024
“As a student of political science, you are going to learn how to gather accurate information about events in the news and also understand why it is important to pay attention to current affairs. Staying updated on the latest political news makes for a well-informed and educated citizen.”
Source: “What Are The Benefits Of Getting A Political Science Degree?” in.indeed.com, December 2, 2024
Alumni Stories
May 7, 2025
Alumna Chloe Siegel to deliver commencement speech on taking charge of the moment
When Chloe Siegel ’24 speaks at this spring’s Commencement for the Lloyd International Honors College, she plans to shape her re…
December 12, 2024
Corynn Kolberg (MPA ’20)
“You will face many defeats in life, but never let yourself be defeated” is one of Corynn’s favorite Maya Angelou quotes. Cory…
November 12, 2024
Blake Moyer (MPA ’20)
Blake was a Graduate Research Assistant for the MPA program, which provided him more insight and connections throughout the program….