UC San Diego Political Science: A Leading Institution in Research and Education
The University of California San Diego (UC San Diego) Political Science Department is a dynamic and innovative center for research, teaching, and public engagement. With a distinguished faculty and a vibrant intellectual community, the department offers a comprehensive curriculum and cutting-edge research opportunities that prepare students for careers in academia, law, public service, and beyond.
Research Impact and Innovation
UC San Diego Political Science faculty are renowned for their groundbreaking research and theoretical contributions in various fields, including:
- American Politics
- Comparative Politics
- International Relations
- Political Economy
- Political Methodology
The department fosters a collaborative environment that encourages interdisciplinary research and the exploration of new and emerging areas of study. Recent research projects have examined topics such as the impact of social media on political behavior, the role of institutions in economic development, and the dynamics of international conflict.
Cutting-Edge Curriculum
UC San Diego Political Science offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs that cater to the interests and career aspirations of students.
Undergraduate Program
- Bachelor of Arts in Political Science
- Bachelor of Science in Data Science for Social Good with a Concentration in Political Science
Graduate Program
- Master of Arts in Political Science
- Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Political Science
The department’s curriculum combines rigorous theoretical foundations with hands-on research experience, preparing students to analyze and engage with complex political issues in the real world. Students have access to state-of-the-art research facilities, including the Political Science Research Lab and the Center for Behavioral and Experimental Political Science (CBEPS).
Faculty Excellence
UC San Diego Political Science is home to a distinguished faculty of scholars who are leaders in their respective fields. Many faculty members hold prestigious fellowships and awards from organizations such as the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, the National Science Foundation, and the Guggenheim Foundation.
Research Data and Infrastructure
The Political Science Department maintains a robust research infrastructure that supports faculty and student research. The department’s Research Lab provides access to a variety of data sources, including:
- Survey data from the California Poll and the Cooperative Congressional Election Study
- Experimental data from CBEPS
- Data from the International Monetary Fund and other international organizations
The department also offers training in quantitative and qualitative research methods, including statistical modeling, data visualization, and archival research.
Community Engagement and Public Service
UC San Diego Political Science is committed to fostering a sense of civic responsibility among its students and faculty. The department actively engages with the local and global community through outreach programs, public lectures, and policy consultations.
- The Center for Comparative Immigration Studies (CCIS) collaborates with community organizations to research and address immigration-related issues.
- The Qualcomm Institute for Global Citizenship hosts events and lectures on pressing global challenges, such as climate change and economic inequality.
- Faculty members regularly provide expert commentary on political issues in the media and at conferences.
Careers and Alumni Success
UC San Diego Political Science graduates are highly sought after for their analytical skills, research expertise, and commitment to public service. Alumni have gone on to successful careers in a wide range of fields, including:
- Academia
- Law
- Public policy
- Business
- Journalism
The department’s alumni network provides mentorship and support to current students and fosters a sense of community among graduates.
Why UC San Diego Political Science?
- Distinguished faculty and cutting-edge research
- Comprehensive curriculum and hands-on research experience
- Access to state-of-the-art research facilities and data
- Commitment to civic responsibility and public service
- Strong alumni network and support system
Contact Information
University of California San Diego
Political Science Department
9500 Gilman Drive
La Jolla, CA 92093
(858) 534-8397
[email protected]
Additional Resources
- UC San Diego Political Science Website
- Political Science Research Lab
- Center for Comparative Immigration Studies
- Qualcomm Institute for Global Citizenship
Tables
| Table 1: Undergraduate Program Curriculum |
|—|—|
| Core Courses | Introduction to Political Science | American Politics | Comparative Politics | International Relations | Political Theory |
| Concentration Options | American Institutions | Comparative Politics | International Relations | Political Theory | Data Science |
| Research Experience | Research Methods | Data Analysis | Thesis or Capstone Project |
| Table 2: Graduate Program Curriculum |
|—|—|
| Core Courses | Research Methods | Data Analysis | Political Theory | Comparative Politics | International Relations |
| Field of Specialization | American Politics | Comparative Politics | International Relations | Political Economy | Political Methodology |
| Dissertation | Original research project |
| Table 3: Faculty Research Impact |
|—|—|
| Number of Faculty | 25 |
| Prestigious Fellowships and Awards | 10 |
| Research Publications in Top Journals | 50 |
| Citations of Faculty Research | 15,000 |
| Table 4: Alumni Success |
|—|—|
| Percentage of Graduates Employed or Enrolled in Further Education Within 6 Months | 95% |
| Percentage of Graduates Employed in Their Chosen Field | 80% |
| Average Starting Salary | $65,000 |
