Political Science: American Government (B.S.)

BYU-I students simulate a State of the Union address in a political science class.

Political Science Introduction

A major in Political Science is perfect for students who love to be actively engaged in the political world. This degree involves the study of government policies, the function of governing institutions, and the interconnections of political parties. Political Science majors can emphasize their studies in Foreign Affairs, American government, Public Policy, or Public Administration.

The American Government emphasis is available to students who wish to concentrate on the American political process. This includes the study of national politics, including the three branches of government, state and local political institutions, public opinion, and voting behavior.

Highlighted Courses

If you are interested in Political Science and American Government, start with one of the following courses:

POLSC110 - American Government

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POLSC150 - Introduction to Comparative Politics

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POLSC311 - State and Local Government

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4-Year Plan

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Graduate Career-Ready

Graduates with a degree in Political Science, with an American Government emphasis, have a wide array of rewarding careers before them. Check out some of the top careers students get with this degree or explore more career options in I-Plan.

BYU-Idaho Graduate Salaries

Graduates from the political science program typically enter the workforce with starting salaries ranging from $40,000 to $55,000 annually. Your earning potential grows significantly as you leverage your specialized research and communication skills to move into senior roles within government and corporate management.

Common Career Paths

You will be prepared for impactful careers in law, local and international government, and economic analysis where your ability to synthesize complex data is highly valued. This degree also provides a strong foundation for leadership roles in the military, marketing, and the rapidly growing technology sector.

Preparation for Grad School

This major provides a rigorous academic foundation for students pursuing law school or advanced degrees such as a Master of Public Administration or Master of Public Policy. You will graduate with the analytical depth required to excel in prestigious graduate programs focused on national security, intelligence, and global policy analysis.

AI in Academics

At BYU-Idaho, we are strategically integrating Artificial Intelligence to enhance academic excellence and prepare our students for an evolving world.

Learn more about AI in Academics

AI in Political Science

You will learn to leverage artificial intelligence to gather real time data on global political issues while mastering the essential skills to vet content for accuracy and relevance. Our curriculum teaches you to conduct your own independent analysis and use AI tools to effectively present your findings to diverse audiences.

Advance Knowledge, Enhancing Learning, and Developing Workforce Readiness

AI in Academics means learning to advance knowledge, enhancing learning, and developing workforce readiness through tools that support (not replace) your effort and integrity.