Impact the world with politics, policy, and the law. This is where fearless begins.
Political science at Southeast Missouri State University goes beyond studying government—it’s about understanding how decisions are made, how policies shape communities, and how you can be part of that process.
In the Bachelor of Science in political science, you’ll explore topics like American government, political behavior, public policy, international relations, and political theory. Through engaging discussions, research opportunities, and real-world experiences, you’ll develop the critical thinking, communication, and analytical skills needed to lead and serve in a wide range of careers.
The BS option is designed for students who want to strengthen their analytical and data-driven decision-making skills. In addition to your political science coursework, you’ll complete statistics and quantitative analysis classes, helping you understand political data, policy research, and the numbers behind campaigns and public opinion.
Where Bold Ideas Take Shape
At SEMO, political science students learn by doing. Along the way, you’ll gain hands-on experience through internships, student organizations, and research opportunities that prepare you for graduate school, law school, or careers in government and public service.
- Engage with exceptionally well qualified faculty members who work closely with students in small settings.
- Thrive in specialized student organizations like the Political Science and Political Theory Clubs and the student honorary society Pi Sigma Alpha
- Gain hands-on real-world experience in a practicum, professional conference, or internship.
- Participate in Model United Nations
- Prepare for graduate or other advanced study of to take the LSATs.
What Can You Do with a Bachelor's Degree in Political Science?
A political science degree prepares you for careers that influence communities, shape policy, and make an impact at every level of government and society.
Graduates pursue careers in areas such as:
- Government and public administration
- Political campaigns and advocacy
- Public policy and policy analysis
- Law and legal services
- International affairs and diplomacy
- Nonprofit leadership
- Research and academia
Many students also use political science as a strong foundation for law school or graduate programs in political science, public administration, international relations, and related fields.
The combination of analytical skills, research experience, and communication training makes political science graduates valuable in a wide range of professional settings.
Advanced Degree Opportunities of Recent Graduates
- University of Missouri Law School
- Washington University Law School
- St. Louis University Law School
- SIU-Carbondale Law School
- University of Indiana
- University of Missouri
- University of Florida
Internship Opportunities of Recent Graduates
Students regularly complete internships with elected officials and government offices. These experiences provide firsthand insight into how government works and allow students to build valuable professional connections.
- Office of the Governor
- Missouri State Senate
- Missouri House of Representatives
- United States District Court, ED Mo
- Southeast Missouri Food Bank
- Safe House for Women
BA or BS: Choosing the Path That's Right for You
SEMO offers two political science degree options, allowing you to choose the academic path that best matches your interests and strengths.
The Bachelor of Science (BS) focuses on statistics and quantitative analysis, helping students develop skills in research, data interpretation, and policy analysis. This option is a great fit for students interested in political research, campaign strategy, public administration, or data-driven decision-making.
The Bachelor of Arts (BA) includes two years of Spanish (or the equivalent), strengthening language and communication skills that are valuable in international relations, law, diplomacy, and global careers.
Both programs share the same core political science coursework, meaning students in either track receive the same strong foundation in the discipline. Graduates from both programs pursue the same types of careers, law schools, and graduate programs—the difference simply allows you to choose whether you prefer focusing on analytics or language skills as part of your degree.
