About the Program
Become a changemaker and develop a robust understanding of everything from American government to global diplomacy and public law to political theory. You’ll learn how policies are made, how governments function, and how you can impact the world. With small class sizes and a focus on hands-on learning, you’ll build the critical thinking, research, and communication skills needed to thrive in politics, diplomacy, social justice, law, and beyond.
The Polytechnic Approach
Research. Advocacy. Innovation: Shaping Justice Through a Polytechnic Lens. All political science majors complete original research projects in senior capstone, have the opportunity to intern with local governments and non-profits, and find community in clubs. Experience politics firsthand through fieldwork, trips to major political events like the Iowa caucuses, and study away programs domestically and abroad. Graduate ready to participate as leaders in political communities and embark on careers in all sorts of industries including public service, non-profits, law, and government.
Career Outcomes
Courses
Our required core intends to introduce you to the seven subfields of political science: American Politics, Public Administration, International Relations, Comparative Politics, Public Law, Political Theory, and Race/Ethnic Politics. These core courses are the fundamental building blocks of our degree program. You are required to take all nine lower-division core courses to have a basic understanding of all areas of the discipline. After completing the lower-division requirements, you can then take upper-division elective courses from a selection of over 50 classes, built from the expertise of our world-class faculty who themselves were trained at elite institutions around the globe.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
Sean Yu Travel Scholarship
Imagine studying political institutions while standing in the halls of the United Nations in Switzerland or exploring international trade policy in the bustling markets of Singapore. Thanks to the generosity of department alumnus Sean Yu, the Sean Yu Travel Funds make life-changing, course-based travel experiences possible for political science majors. These scholarships have enabled students to explore global political hubs like France, England, Japan, and beyond—immersing themselves in international politics, culture, and history. For many, these journeys spark personal and academic transformation, creating lifelong memories and a deeper understanding of the world they aim to change.
Featured Faculty
Dr. Renford Reese made a $100,000 donation to fund study abroad opportunities for students. “The university, the students, the staff and my colleagues - they have given me everything," said Dr. Reese, who has been at Cal Poly Pomona for 26 years. "And...Dr. Renford Reese Professor of Political Science
Political Science Department
Semester in Washington D.C.
Hosted by Cal State Fullerton, this program lets juniors and seniors earn full-time academic credit while interning in Washington, D.C. Opportunities include working with congressional offices, government agencies, non-profits, and more. Scholarships up to $5,000 are available to help cover expenses.
