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
Aug. 22, 2025
Are women better lawmakers than men? A nuanced yes, VCU researcher finds
However, women serving on less professional state legislatures struggle to overcome lower-ranked committee assignments and entrenched sexism.
July 23, 2025
Five recent graduates receive prestigious Fulbright awards for the 2025-26 academic year
The selections continue VCU’s upward trend of honorees in the federal cultural exchange program.
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 Democratic Empowerment and Pluralism cultivates dialogues about how democracy works, how it is under threat and how it can be strengthened.