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Bachelor's Degree in Political Science

Why Earn Your Political Science Degree at Saint Leo University?

Are you curious about whether or not voting really matters, or about how the legal system really works? Are you interested in the Presidential campaigns, international events, terrorism or other global events? Are you eager to play a bigger role in local, state or federal government? If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, prepare for a career serving the public with a Saint Leo Political Science degree.

The major in political science is designed as preparation for graduate or legal study, for a career in politics or public service, or as part of a general liberal arts education.

Learning Experience:
Campus
Est. Time to Complete:
4 years
Credit Hours:
120 hours
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Undergraduate Political Science Program Details

Build a foundation in the principles and processes of American national government, international relations, classical political philosophy, legal theory and Constitutional law. Develop your global leadership skills—Saint Leo offers Spanish, French and German language labs, and international studies, including courses in the modern Middle East.

Participate in Saint Leo's Student Government, Campus Activities Board and Model UN. Write op-eds for The Lions' Pride student newspaper. Take advantage of internship opportunities in Tampa, Washington, D.C., and the world. Deliver policy papers on real issues affecting your community—and present your concerns to members of the Florida State Legislature. Volunteer at a CNN-aired presidential debate.

Saint Leo prepares you for a future in the public or private sector, or academia, with a career preparation course specially designed for Political Science and History students.

Career Outlook

No matter which learning experience you choose, you will receive plenty of professional development opportunities, industry knowledge from expert professors, and support from the Saint Leo community. All this together means that you will be ready for a successful career or continued studies upon graduation.

  • Saint Leo University students in Psychology classroom
  • How will you gain real experience?

    Internships

    Work with politicians in district offices or on local, state, or national campaigns on behalf of parties or candidates. Get hands on experience interning for prominent law offices in the Tampa Bay area. Work in Washington DC for Congress, interest groups, or bureaucratic agencies.

    Experiential Learning

    Trips to Tallahassee to lobby for the Independent Colleges and Universities of Florida. Fellowships available to attend Council of Foreign Relations events. Attend Model UN activities with fellow political scientists. Take part in mock campaigns and debates.

Conferences

Present at local, state and national events focused on scholarship, leadership, and international relations. 

Co-curricular activities

Become a member of our local branch of Pi Sigma Alpha, the national political science Honors Society. Attend debate/election night parties, participate in debates, host movie nights, and meet politicians and judges that visit campus. 

What can you do with an undergraduate political science degree?

Saint Leo graduates pursue graduate or legal study, and go on to run for public office and to practice as lawyers. More than half of our students express an interest in post-graduate legal studies.

What are the top political science degree jobs?

  • Attorney
  • Lobbyist
  • Policy Analyst
  • City Planner
  • Labor Relations Specialist
  • High School Government Teacher
  • Political Commentator
  • Campaign Operative
  • Public Opinion Analyst
  • Immigration Officer

Where are Saint Leo political science graduates now? 

  • Carter & Clendenin Attorneys at Law
  • U.S. House of Representatives
  • Tampa City Council
  • University of Florida College of Law
  • Florida State University College of Law
  • University of Miami School of Law
  • Barry University School of Law
  • Duke University
  • Emory University
  • University of Chicago

College of Arts, Sciences, and Allied Services

  • Saint Leo University - Kirk Hall
  • The College of Arts, Sciences, and Allied Services at Saint Leo University offers students a broad education that lays a durable foundation for critical and independent thinking. The essential spirit of the liberal arts is a cornerstone of the varied degree programs. From biology to English to sociology, students enjoy a nice selection of in-demand degree programs for all interests.

    Learning takes place both in and out of the classroom. Students travel to Europe through our cultural immersion courses, research unique plant species while trekking through the Peruvian Amazon, and attend film screenings and poetry readings. With highly experienced professors who bring a wealth of practical knowledge to the classroom, students are prepared to work in a variety of rewarding fields. The College supports more than 30 degree programs across University Campus, education centers in five states, and online.

    Explore the College of Arts, Sciences, and Allied Services

Program Faculty

  • Dr. Asutin Trantham

    Austin Trantham

  • Marco Rimanelli

    Dr. Marco Rimanelli, Ph.D.

  • Frank Orlando

    Mr. Francis Orlando, M.A.