Why study political science?
Tackle the big questions about your community, your country and the world.
Political science is the study of governance and power: who has it, who seeks it, how and why some are excluded from it.
Did you know?
The economic value of a political science degree is among the highest of all undergraduate majors. Political Science ranks 13th out of 83 majors in median lifetime earnings, and ranks 2nd in the social sciences in median annual salary.
Political Science at VCU
Our B.A. in Political Science is designed to provide a foundation in knowledge of politics and government, and to train students how to conduct research.
Learn more about VCU Political Science and careers opportunities for political scientists.
News
Jan. 7, 2025
In the C-suite at Commonwealth Savers, Carolyn Bishop and Vivian Shields invest their Ram pride
The two executives credit their VCU student experiences for laying the foundations of their success
Nov. 11, 2024
A year-end review of students and alums who earned prestigious scholarships through the National Scholarship Office
Recipients represent a variety of fields and backgrounds, and their scholarships will provide invaluable opportunities to deepen their studies, gain new perspectives and grow in their fields.
Nov. 8, 2024
By sea and now land, Navy veteran expands his service mindset as a VCU student
Bob Pryor is finishing his undergraduate degree, preparing for his master’s in public administration – and staying incredibly busy beyond the classroom.
Political Science Spotlight
Meet Hezha
His family's refugee story and the ongoing oppression of his people led Hezha Barzani to study political science. Read more about Hezha's favorite classes, professors and how VCU is helping him in his goal to fight injustice around the world.
Fast track to a Master of Public Administration
Earn your B.A. in political science and M.P.A. in five years by completing approved graduate courses during the senior year of your undergraduate program.
Join the IDPCE community
The Institute for Democracy, Pluralism, and Community Empowerment cultivates dialogues about how democracy works, how it is under threat and how it can be strengthened.