Boston College’s Political Science department is a renowned center of academic excellence, consistently ranked among the top political science programs in the nation. With a faculty of distinguished scholars and a diverse student body, the department offers a rigorous and comprehensive curriculum that prepares students for careers in politics, law, public service, and beyond.
Academic Programs
The Political Science department offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, including:
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Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Political Science: Provides a foundational understanding of the principles and theories of political science, with concentrations in American politics, comparative politics, international relations, and public policy.
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Master of Arts (M.A.) in Political Science: A research-oriented program that allows students to specialize in a particular area of political science, such as American politics, comparative politics, international relations, or political theory.
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Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Political Science: The highest level of academic achievement in political science, preparing students for careers in academia, research, and policy analysis.
Faculty and Research
The Political Science department at Boston College is home to a world-renowned faculty of scholars who conduct groundbreaking research on a wide range of political topics. The department’s research centers and institutes, such as the Center for American Political Studies and the Clough Center for the Study of Constitutional Democracy, provide a platform for interdisciplinary collaboration and cutting-edge research.
Student Life
Boston College Political Science students are an active and engaged group who participate in a variety of extracurricular activities, including the Political Science Club, the International Relations Club, and the Pre-Law Society. The department also hosts a variety of guest lectures, workshops, and conferences throughout the year, providing students with opportunities to engage with leading scholars and practitioners in the field.
Career Outcomes
Graduates of Boston College’s Political Science department go on to successful careers in a wide range of fields, including:
- Government and Public Service: Elected officials, civil servants, policymakers, and diplomats
- Law: Lawyers, judges, and prosecutors
- Academia: Professors, researchers, and policy analysts
- Business and Industry: Political consultants, lobbyists, and corporate executives
- Nonprofit Organizations: Directors, advocates, and grant writers
Why Choose Boston College Political Science?
There are many reasons to choose Boston College Political Science, including:
- Faculty Excellence: Renowned faculty of scholars who conduct groundbreaking research and provide students with exceptional mentorship.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Rigorous and diverse curriculum that prepares students for a wide range of careers in politics, law, public service, and beyond.
- Research Opportunities: Access to state-of-the-art research centers and institutes, providing students with hands-on experience in political research.
- Student Involvement: Active and engaged student body with a variety of extracurricular activities and opportunities for leadership development.
- Career Outcomes: Graduates of the Political Science department go on to successful careers in a wide range of fields, including government, law, academia, and business.
Conclusion
Boston College Political Science is a premier academic program that provides students with an exceptional education in the field of political science. With a distinguished faculty of scholars, a comprehensive curriculum, and a vibrant student community, the department prepares students for success in a variety of careers in politics, law, public service, and beyond.
Boston College Political Science in Numbers
- #1 Ranked among the top political science programs in the nation by U.S. News & World Report
- 100+ Faculty members, including Pulitzer Prize winners and members of the National Academy of Sciences
- 1,500+ Undergraduate students majoring in Political Science
- 200+ Graduate students enrolled in the M.A. and Ph.D. programs
- $20 million+ In research funding annually
Tables
Table 1: Top Political Science Programs in the Nation
| Rank | University |
|---|---|
| 1 | Harvard University |
| 2 | Yale University |
| 3 | Princeton University |
| 4 | Stanford University |
| 5 | University of Chicago |
| 6 | Massachusetts Institute of Technology |
| 7 | University of California, Berkeley |
| 8 | University of Michigan |
| 9 | Columbia University |
| 10 | Boston College |
Table 2: Boston College Political Science Faculty Awards and Honors
| Award | Recipient |
|---|---|
| Pulitzer Prize | Steven Levitsky |
| National Academy of Sciences | Daron Acemoglu |
| American Political Science Association Lifetime Achievement Award | Pippa Norris |
| International Studies Association Lifetime Achievement Award | Robert Keohane |
| MacArthur Foundation Fellowship | Nancy Bermeo |
Table 3: Boston College Political Science Student Outcomes
| Career Field | Percentage of Graduates |
|---|---|
| Government and Public Service | 30% |
| Law | 25% |
| Academia | 20% |
| Business and Industry | 15% |
| Nonprofit Organizations | 10% |
Table 4: Boston College Political Science Research Funding
| Year | Funding |
|---|---|
| 2021 | $22 million |
| 2022 | $25 million |
| 2023 | $20 million |
| 2024 | (Projected) $25 million |
| 2025 | (Projected) $30 million |
Conclusion
Boston College Political Science is a premier academic program that provides students with an exceptional education in the field of political science. With a distinguished faculty of scholars, a comprehensive curriculum, and a vibrant student community, the department prepares students for success in a variety of careers in politics, law, public service, and beyond.