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Bachelor of Science

Political Science: Foreign Affairs (B.S.)

Department of History, Geography and Political Science
The study of Political Science gives students an understanding of the functions of political systems and how governments operate at local, state, national, and international levels.
A BYU-Idaho student listens with great interest in a political science foreign affairs class
Learn More About the Political Science: Foreign Affairs Program
Request more information about the Foreign Affairs program and discover how BYU-Idaho can help you reach your goals.

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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 Foreign Affairs emphasis is available to students who wish to concentrate on comparative and international politics. This includes the study of the interrelationship of nations, international law, and international political economy. Different approaches to democracy and economic development are also studied.

Highlighted Courses

If you are interested in Political Science and Foreign Affairs, start with one of the following courses:
Introduction to Political Science
April 28, 2026 10:01 AM
POLSC 100
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American Government
April 28, 2026 10:02 AM
POLSC 110
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Introduction to Comparative Politics
April 28, 2026 10:02 AM
POLSC 150
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International Politics
April 28, 2026 10:03 AM
POLSC 170
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Advanced Theory of International Relations
April 28, 2026 10:11 AM
POLSC 372
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International Law and Organization
April 28, 2026 10:12 AM
POLSC 375
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American Foreign Policy
April 28, 2026 10:06 AM
POLSC 390
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Terrorism and National Security
April 28, 2026 10:11 AM
POLSC 392
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4-Year Plan
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Salary Outlook for BYUI Graduates

Explore earnings data for BYU-Idaho graduates in political science-related fields.

1 year

$36,537

Average Salary

5 years

$62,105

Average Salary

10 years

$78,415

Average Salary

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This data is based on outcomes for BYU-Idaho graduates with a degree in this major, using federal Post-Secondary Employment Outcomes (PSEO) data. It reflects actual earnings and employment over time, rather than job market estimates.

Career Possibilities for Foreign Affairs

Graduates with a degree in Political Science, with a Foreign Affairs 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.

Career Options

Data Source: Industry and occupation employment and wage estimates are modeled using data from Lightcast, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, and other public sources. Figures are estimates and actual outcomes may vary by employer, experience, and location.

Dive Deeper Into Foreign Affairs

Explore helpful articles about this major, including career paths, skills, and opportunities. Get the insight you need to make an informed decision about your future at BYU-Idaho.

Explore Major Discovery
Blueprints of a building model on the BYU-Idaho campus.
Find the Right Fit
Political Science American Government vs. Foreign Affairs
August 10, 2026 03:22 PM
Political Science is the study of how governments and their policies work. In this field, there are two areas students can focus on, that being American Government and Foreign Affairs.
4 Min Read
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Blueprints of a building model on the BYU-Idaho campus.
Industry Insights
What’s the Difference Between Political Science and Public Policy and Administration?
August 10, 2026 04:13 PM
Most people couldn’t tell you what the difference between Political Science and Public Policy is. People also define these topics differently, which makes understanding them even more difficult.
3 Min Read
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A female student listens intently during a public policy history class
Find the Right Fit
Why Study Foreign Affairs?
August 10, 2026 04:18 PM
Every day, you interact with a giant network of people. The internet has connected every country, every culture, every person, in a way that the world has never seen before. There has never been a more important time in the world to study foreign affairs.
3 Min Read
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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.

Related Majors

BYU-I students simulate a State of the Union address in a political science class.
Political Science: American Government (B.S.)
Explore the political system, structure, and citizen participation in the United States government.
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Teach history and social studies subjects in middle and high schools.
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A female student listens intently during a public policy history class
Public Policy and Administration (B.A.)
Study how governments create and implement laws to solve public problems.
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International Studies (B.A.)
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History (B.A.)
Study ancient and modern cultures and how they shape the world today.
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Teach historical knowledge and critical thinking skills to middle and high school students.
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Next Steps With BYU-Idaho

Learn How to Apply
Explore how to begin your academic journey at BYU-Idaho by starting your application today.
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Change Your Major
Learn how to update your academic path with simple instructions for requesting a major change.
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Learn More About the Foreign Affairs Program

Request more information about the Foreign Affairs program and discover how BYU-Idaho can help you reach your goals.

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