Political Science

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon January 2027

Course Overview

The Political Science Bachelors Degree at Shorelight University of Illinois Chicago is designed for students eager to understand the fundamental forces of power, authority, conflict, and cooperation that shape societies. You will explore enduring questions about political structures, processes, and behaviour, developing a critical understanding of both contemporary and historical political thought. This programme provides an excellent foundation for careers in government, law, journalism, and business, equipping you with the analytical skills necessary to navigate complex societal challenges and contribute to informed civic engagement.

Studied full-time on campus over four years, your journey will involve acquiring contemporary social science theory and methods, alongside an appreciation for eminent political thinkers. You will engage with core areas such as American Government and Politics, Political Theory, Comparative Politics, and International Relations, with opportunities to develop skills in political data analysis and research methods. You will graduate with a comprehensive understanding of political science, prepared for diverse professional pathways and further academic pursuits.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This program provides a comprehensive introduction to the field of political science, covering foundational concepts in American government, political theory, and comparative or international politics. Students will develop essential academic writing and research skills, alongside quantitative reasoning and foreign language proficiency. The curriculum progresses to advanced coursework, including specialized seminars and electives, allowing for in-depth exploration of various political subfields and analytical methods.

1 Fall Semester

Academic Writing I: Writing in Academic and Public Contexts
Introduction to American Government and Politics
Foreign Language
General Education Requirement course

2 Spring Semester

Academic Writing II: Writing for Inquiry and Research
Introduction to Political Theory or Introduction to Comparative Politics or Introduction to International Relations
General Education Requirement course
General Education Requirement course
Foreign Language

3 Fall Semester

Introduction to Political Theory or Introduction to Comparative Politics or Introduction to International Relations
Foreign Language
General Education Requirement course
General Education Requirement course
General Education Requirement course

4 Spring Semester

Methods of Political Science
POLS 2xx, 3xx, or 4xx
POLS 2xx
General Education Requirement course
Foreign Language

5 Fall Semester

POLS 2xx, 3xx, or 4xx
POLS 2xx
Political Data Analysis (or a Quantitative Reasoning course)
Electives

6 Spring Semester

POLS 3xx or 4xx
Electives

7 Fall Semester

POLS 3xx or 4xx
Select one of the following in either the fall or spring semesters: Seminar on American Politics, Topics in Comparative Politics, Seminar: Topics in International Relations, Seminar in Political Theory
Electives

8 Spring Semester

Select one of the following in either the fall or spring semesters: Seminar on American Politics, Topics in Comparative Politics, Seminar: Topics in International Relations, Seminar in Political Theory
Electives

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 31,996.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 31,996.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 31,996.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 31,996.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 127,984.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 1,430.00 - USD 1,788.00
Food & Groceries USD 3,600.00 - USD 5,400.00
Transport USD 840.00 - USD 1,440.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,200.00 - USD 2,040.00
Estimated Total USD 5,640.00 - USD 8,880.00

Living cost estimates are based on Chicago Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

94%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Border Control & Immigration EnforcementCorrections & RehabilitationCybersecurity & Digital ForensicsDefense & Military SecurityEmergency Services & Disaster ResponseForensic Science & Criminal JusticeIntelligence & InvestigationsPolice & Public SafetyPrivate Security & Risk Management

Top Employers Hiring for this course

U.S. Department of State

Why Study Political Science at University of Illinois Chicago

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Very Fast Application response time

University of Illinois Chicago typically responds to applications within 1 - 2 days, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at University of Illinois Chicago in United States

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Political Science at University of Illinois Chicago

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. Work on-campus does not require a separate permit.

What English language score do I need for this course?

For TOEFL, you need a minimum overall score of 80 and specific section scores. IELTS requires an overall score of 6.5, while PTE needs an overall score of 54.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as political analysts, policy advisors, journalists, and educators.

What will I actually study in this course?

Political science studies power, authority, conflict, and cooperation. It prepares students for careers in government, law, and journalism while providing valuable research skills.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

Political Science courses have intakes in January, May, and August. Make sure to check specific enrollment dates for each term.
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