The global politics option focuses on understanding various political systems and examines how nations interact with one another.

Core courses include:

Pol S 101—American National Government
Pol S 102—Introduction to Comparative Politics
Pol S 103—International Politics

9 credits in comparative politics
9 credits in international politics
3 credits in political theory
3 additional credits in political science

The political science program also requires an international experience. You can fulfill this requirement through study abroad, an international-oriented internship, or by minoring in a foreign language.

Note: See the WSU Catalog for degree requirements and talk with your academic advisor about planning and scheduling your courses. All students must meet requirements as outlined in the catalog in order to graduate.

A variety of state, federal, and university-sponsored programs are available to help students with educational costs.

For students in political science

There are numerous scholarships available to political science majors. Scholarships are awarded based on financial need and on merit. Some scholarships are specifically for pre-law students; others are available to students pursuing a public service career.

For all students

WSU awards millions of dollars in financial aid and scholarships to thousands of students every year based on financial need, academic merit, or a combination of the two.

All students should do these three things:

• Complete the WSU general scholarship application — all students need to do this to be considered for scholarships from the University.
• Fill out the FAFSA to see if you're eligible for aid based on financial need.
• See the Scholarships and Finances section of the WSU admissions website for links to departmental scholarship info, deadlines, and general instructions.

Strong communication skills

Strong leadership skills

Interest in public policy and government

Political science graduates may join the millions of Americans who are employed in public service through government, or they can work in the private sector. A recent study in a leading business magazine reported that students with liberal arts degrees, including political science, were more likely to be promoted to management within their first 10 years than were graduates with degrees in business. Reading, writing, and analytical skills developed in our program serve well in the business world.

Some students continue their education by going to law school or pursuing an advanced degree in political science. The Washington State University department has a pre-law program and offers advanced degrees in political science.