Study Politics as a Force in Human Affairs

Politics affects the schools we attend, the jobs we do, even the air we breathe. As a political science major, you’ll take a deep dive into the inner workings of political parties, government structures, interest groups and social movements. You’ll learn to think, write, debate, conduct research and analyze issues at a whole new level. In small classes, you’ll work side-by-side with outstanding faculty. You’ll prepare to express your ideas effectively, to listen thoughtfully, and to lead teams with competence and integrity. This major is ideal preparation for law school and for a wide variety of meaningful, intellectually engaging careers.

What I liked about majoring in political science is that it really prepared me for a graduate program because of all the writing I had to do. It really prepared me when I had to write my thesis for my masters.”

Kassey Franco
Dominican University Graduate

More Ways to Learn, On Campus and Beyond

Practical experience is built into the political science curriculum. Our internships will take you inside government and political operations from Oak Park to Chicago to Washington and beyond. We make our connections your connections, so you can test-drive your dream job in the real world. You can combine academic study with compassionate service to people in need—or complete your own, hands-on research project in collaboration with faculty (and with university funding)—or both. Finally, you can immerse yourself in a different society, system and culture: Dominican offers study abroad programs in Europe, Asia, Africa, the Caribbean and Latin America.

Concentrations to Explore

Explore humanity at its best and worst, and study history’s most insightful observers and thinkers.

Political Studies

Examine the operations of government and formal and informal political institutions, and consider their impact on individuals and societies.

Legal Studies

The legal thought concentration is a good fit for students interested in law school.

Outstanding Preparation for Graduate School and the Job Market

A survey of U.S. employers by Hart Research Associates found that 93% of bosses say that “a job candidate’s demonstrated capacity to think critically, communicate clearly and solve complex problems” is the most important factor in hiring decisions. That is the essential skill set of our political science graduates. Our curriculum is designed to prepare you for lifelong intellectual and professional competence. In the workplace or in law school, our graduates know what they’re doing. They’re informed, thoughtful, open to new ideas and ready to thrive through long and meaningful careers. They have earned their way into leadership positions in the professions of their choice.

I really enjoyed the tight-knit community at Dominican. The professors are totally invested in your success. I was able to double major in political science and theatre. Now I’m planning to attend law school while keeping a hand in the theatre world.”

Katherine McLaren
Dominican University Graduate

Career Opportunities

Dominican’s pre-law program is housed in the political science department. The curriculum is outstanding preparation for a legal career, and also opens doors to professional opportunities in many other fields, including:

  • Politics and Political Campaigns
  • Federal, State and Local
  • Government Service
  • International Development
  • Nonprofit Management
  • Social Advocacy
  • Environmental Action
  • National Security
  • Business
  • Association Management
  • Community Organizing
  • Nongovernmental Organization (NGO) Management
  • Business
  • Journalism

Find Community, Career Prep and Lifelong Connections

Transfer student Elizabeth Martinez discovered a welcoming environment, hands-on career preparation and professors who invested in her future at DU. 

For more information,
please contact:

Patrick Homan, PhD
Professor and Chair
Department of Political Science
phoman@dom.edu

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