Political Science/Social Studies, BA

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 BA in Political Science/Social Studies at Western Washington University offers you a deep dive into the structures of power, governance, and societal dynamics that shape our world. This undergraduate degree is ideal for students keen to understand political theory, comparative politics, and international relations, preparing you for active citizenship and informed engagement with complex global issues. You will explore the American political system, public policy, and the historical and social contexts that influence political behaviour, building a robust foundation for further study or a career in public service.

This full-time, on-campus program is structured over four years, allowing you to engage with a diverse curriculum that includes quantitative methods, political geography, and specialized electives. You will develop critical analytical skills through coursework and potentially a senior seminar, preparing you for diverse career paths. Graduates are well-equipped for roles in government, non-profit organizations, law, policy analysis, and further academic pursuits, armed with a comprehensive understanding of political science and social studies.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This Bachelor of Arts in Political Science/Social Studies program offers a comprehensive exploration of political systems and social issues. Students will delve into American politics, including its institutions, policies, and societal influences, alongside a thorough examination of international relations and comparative political systems across the globe. The curriculum emphasizes analytical skills and a nuanced understanding of political dynamics, preparing students for diverse career paths and informed civic engagement.

1 Required Courses (9 credits)

Human Geography
The American Political System

2 Political Science Requirements (45 credits)

Introduction to Law and the Legal System
Law, Courts, Politics, Society: Non-legal Perspectives of Law
The U.S. Supreme Court: Law and Politics
Queer and Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Politics
Latino Politics
Black Politics in the U.S.
Policy Analysis: Understanding Public Problems & Policy Solutions
Urban Politics and Policy in the U.S.
American Democracy and the Politics of Education
Public Opinion and Mass Media
Housing and Homelessness Politics and Policy
Women and Politics
Politics of Inequality
Race, Politics and Public Policy
Environmental Justice
State and Local Politics
Digging into the Deep State: Organizational Politics and US Bureaucracy
Health Policy
Quantitative Methods in Political Science
Applied Skills in Political Science
Immigration Politics
Constitutional Law: Separation of Powers and Federalism
Constitutional Law: Civil Rights and Liberties
Environmental Politics
Race and Political Identification
The American Presidency
The U.S. Congress
Politics of the Policy Process
Senior Seminar in American Politics and Public Policy
Politics and Social Change
Parties, Campaigns and Elections
Philosophical and Ethical Issues in Law
Managing an International Ecosystem

3 International Relations (8 credits)

Introduction to International Relations
Introduction to Comparative Politics
The British Parliamentary System
Western Europe
Government and Politics of East Asia
African Political Systems
Globalization from Political, Economic, and Social Perspectives
The International Security of East Asia
International Relations of South Asia
Why We Fight
Quebec Politics and Quebec-U.S. Relations
Quantitative Methods in Political Science
Global Issues in International Politics
International Political Economy
Comparative Foreign Policy
American Foreign Policy
Communist Regimes: A Brief History
Political Geography
Nationalism, Genocide and Global Politics
Applied Skills in Political Science
The Politics of Development
Politics of Latin America
Politics of Mexico
The Politics of Democratization

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 27,690.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 27,690.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 27,690.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 27,690.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 110,760.00

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

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 1,450.00 - USD 1,750.00
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 Bellingham Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

90%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Consumer Finance & Credit ServicesCorporate Training & DevelopmentEdTech & E-LearningEducational Support ServicesHotel & Accommodation ManagementInsurance & Risk ManagementInvestment Management & Asset ManagementMental Health & CounselingPrivate Equity & Venture CapitalRehabilitation & Physiotherapy

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Bellingham Public Schools

European Union

MultiCare Health System

Refugee Women’s Alliance (ReWA)

Western Washington University

Why Study Political Science/Social Studies, BA at Western Washington University

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Life at Western Washington University 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/Social Studies, BA at Western Washington University

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during terms and full-time during breaks without needing a separate work permit. Approval is required for off-campus work after the first year.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet English language requirements, students must score a minimum of 105 in Duolingo or achieve specific scores on tests like TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE. It's important to check the exact requirements for your chosen test.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates may find roles as policy analysts, public administrators, political consultants, or educators.

What will I actually study in this course?

Introduction

Political Science is one of the oldest fields of academic inquiry. Social ideals and their realization through law were systematically studied in ancient Greece. In an increasingly interdependent world, the study of politics and government has flourished as the relations between persons, groups and nations have become more complex, and questions of freedom and authority have challenged every citizen. Modern political science is equally concerned with

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Political Science/Social Studies program accepts students in January, March, and September. Make sure to prepare your application for one of these intake months.
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