Department of Political Science

Be a part of the solution.

We emphasize research and teaching that links theory with real world issues and action through politics, public policy and administration. Join us to develop the critical thinking, analytic, writing, and intentional communication skills you need to examine and change the forces that shape our world, and opens doors to a multitude of career possibilities.

Explore Political Science and Public Affairs careers

Student Interns at Nevada State Legislature

Find your major

Our faculty are dedicated to helping students understand the forces that shape our world—from local policies to global diplomacy. We offer a range of flexible programs, including a Bachelor of Arts in political science or international affairs, as well as options for future educators and accelerated graduate study. Students can also choose from several minors to match their interests. At the graduate level, our master’s and doctoral programs support in-depth research and advanced training in policy, public administration and political analysis.

Accelerated Bachelor of Arts/Master of Arts, Political Science

A five-year program to earn both B.A. and M.A. degrees in political science or public administration.

Accelerated B.A./M.A., Political Science

Bachelor of Arts, Political Science

Political science is the study of governments, power, decision-making, public policy and political behavior in local, national and international politics.

B.A. Political Science

Bachelor of Arts, International Affairs

An interdisciplinary major exploring a range of topics from international environmental studies to political economy.

B.A. International Affairs

Bachelor of Arts, PackTeach

Combines political science with secondary education, preparing students for state licensure and teaching certification in social studies.

B.A. Political Science PackTeach

Pre-Law Prep

Political science and international affairs majors offer excellent pre-law training, education and exposure. Our degrees prepare you for the rigorous analytical reasoning and clear, logical, written and oral communication skills you will need for law school, for a career in law, or in a related field.

Learn more about Pre Law Prep

Graduate studies

We are a collaborative department committed to research, mentorship and real-world impact. Our graduate programs include the Master of Arts in Political Science, Master of Public Administration and Ph.D. in Political Science.

Explore our graduate programs

Department highlights and announcements

Department of Political Science presents more than 35 awards and scholarships

The Department of Political Science celebrated student, alumni and faculty scholarship and award recipients at our annual Award and Recognition Ceremony on October 15. More than 35 awards and scholarships were presented to undergraduate and graduate students.

Congratulations to the Department of Political Science 2024 Alumni of the Year!

Undergraduate Alumna of the Year: Amber Joiner B.A. '00, Ph.D. ’18
Graduate Alumnus of the Year: Matthew Tuma B.A. ’04, MPA ’13

Political Science faculty published in npj Climate Action

Assistant Professor Dr. Inhwan Ko has published “Stock markets, corporate climate pledges, and the Science-Based Target Initiative” on npj Climate Action.

Political Science articles in Nevada Today

A group of people standing in front of a Lake Tahoe Campus building.

We the People 2025 Summer Teacher’s Institute sets the precedent for the University of Nevada, Reno’s, Center for Constitutional Law's next institute

We the People showcases what’s to come regarding the Center for Constitutional Law at the University

Five students in business attire, smiling at the legislature.

Nevada Legislature hosts record number of University of Nevada, Reno student interns this legislative session

Over 30 students are working with legislators in Carson City through the Legislative Internship Program

Ask the Professor: How can I have productive political conversations with friends and family?

Associate Professor of Communication Studies Amy Pason, Ph.D., dives into how to have conversations that encourage dialogue and understanding rather than argument

Read all department news

Scholarship opportunities

Thanks to the generosity of alumni and other donors, the Department of Political Science has a number of scholarships specific to Political Science and/or International Affairs majors. Some, such as the Adam Gregory Thomas Legislative Internship Scholarship Endowment, support the Nevada State Legislature Internship program, others, such as the Senator William J. Raggio Free Enterprise Scholarship Endowment, support students’ expenses. There are many more, with support and awards ranging from about $500-$4,500.

New student scholarships

Your application to the University is your scholarship application. No further applications are required. Applications received by February 1 are given priority consideration.

Continuing student scholarships

If you are a continuing student, to be eligible to be considered for scholarships and awards, you must complete the Graduate & Undergraduate Scholarship (GUS) Application in your MyNEVADA account between October 1 and February 1 annually by going to Student Center, Supplemental Forms, Scholarship Application. The GUS application is available until May 31, but scholarship application preference is given to those who complete by February 1. The GUS application is required to be eligible for scholarships/awards.