Political Science

Hastings College Political Science graduates go straight to work for employers like the FBI, the National Rifle Association and Members of Congress, serve in the Peace Corps and tackle key issues for employers in every industry imaginable from teaching to public service. They also pursue master’s, doctoral and law degrees at a number of schools, including:

Georgetown Law School
University College London
Johns Hopkins University
George Washington University
University of Nebraska
Queen’s University in Belfast, Northern Ireland

Policy to Law and Everything In Between

As a Hastings College Political Science major, you’ll gain the tools necessary for understanding and critically analyzing everything from current events to political science theories – skills which are key components to so many career opportunities. Whether pursuing a career in corporate law or the non-profit sector, government service or private business, higher education or journalism, Political Science at Hastings makes you a strong candidate.

You’ll have an opportunity to develop a research project early in your collegiate career and present at conferences such as the Midwest Undergraduate Political Science Research Conference, the Great Plains Political Science Association’s annual meeting or even the Midwest Political Science Association’s annual meeting.

Go further with a Hastings education

Thanks to our small class sizes (most have fewer than 20 students!), and a student-to-faculty ratio of 15:1, you’ll work closely with faculty and your advisor to complete your degree in four years. In fact, most students who graduate from Hastings do so in four years!

Our block-style semester structure means you’ll take just one or two classes at a time — which really lets you focus more intently on each class. It also lets faculty devote more time to every student because they’re only teaching one or two classes in a block!

Create your future

See for yourself how we tailor your education to your talents and your goals. Schedule a visit and we’ll demonstrate how Hastings will inspire you to reach your potential, or if you’re a high school senior, apply today.

Graduate with experience

At every stop in your path, you’ll appreciate the stepping stones of teaching, counseling, inspiring, supporting and guiding from our engaged faculty.

Internships or study abroad experiences are required for Political Science majors. This pays dividends in terms of experience and networking as you approach graduation. You’ll find our students interning in a variety of areas, including prosecutors’ offices, law firms, political campaigns, the U.S. Congress, advocacy and lobbying groups and overseas with non-profit organizations.

It’s an experience that’s true to Hastings College, and you won’t find it anywhere else.

- - - Johnson gathering experiences, working toward master’s degree
    - Video: Alexis Ferguson finds her passion in policy

All the extras aren't extra

Maximize scholarships — Yes, you’ll get an academic scholarship. But you’ll also get an additional “plus one” scholarship from the group, team or area you’re part of. It’s a great way to pay for school, but also find “your people.”

Books included — Afraid of a $400 textbook? No more! We’ve eliminated the high cost of text books by working with our bookstore to provide all required textbooks. This will save you $1,000 or more each year.

iPad + Apple Pencil — We’ll set you up with an iPad and Apple Pencil — and help you learn how to incorporate these tools into your studies. From digital notes to pictures of lab setups, you’ll discover creative ways to use this technology!

Get involved beyond the political science classroom

Alpha Chi (Academic Honor Society)

In addition to Alpha Chi, there’s always something to do at Hastings College. Student clubs, service learning, Greek life, recreation and more make Hastings a great campus for student life.

Find scholarships for political science majors

Your high school achievements can both fuel and fund your success at Hastings. We offer a range of generous and renewable academic scholarships based on your GPA. Plus talent scholarships for everything from speech (forensics) to the arts to athletics are available. Every student receives at least $12,000 in scholarships (but most receive more!).