Political Science

Nathaniel Birkhead, Head

101D Calvin Hall
785-532-6842

E-mail: polsci@k-state.edu
www.k-state.edu/polsci

Political science is the systematic study of power, governance, and political behavior—from local communities to global institutions. Our program equips students with a deep understanding of political systems, public policy, and civic engagement, while training them to think critically, communicate persuasively, and analyze complex problems with rigor.

Students in the political science major learn to evaluate arguments and evidence, conduct independent research, and interpret data using qualitative and quantitative methods. They explore key issues such as democracy and authoritarianism, justice and inequality, conflict and cooperation, and the role of institutions in shaping social outcomes.

The major fosters skills that are highly transferable and in demand, such as analytical reasoning, clear writing, effective communication, data literacy, and ethical decision-making. Political science graduates are well prepared for careers in government, law, nonprofit and advocacy work, international affairs, business, journalism, education, and research, as well as for graduate or professional study.

Both the BA and BS options offer flexibility for students to tailor their studies to their interests, while also offering five different tracks for students to specialize in a particular area within political science. Students are also encouraged to explore related fields such as economics, history, psychology, and data science to enhance their understanding of political dynamics in a broader context.

Advising and specialized curricula

Advising by faculty members

Advising is undertaken by Kathy Lillich (117A Calvin Hall) and Dr. John Fliter (101A Calvin Hall). For advising appointments or questions please contact by phone at 532-0642.

Primary Texts Certificate

Students can earn a certificate in the study of arts and science through primary texts while fulfilling Political Science and other required credit hours. This program focuses on learning subjects through reading original works instead of textbooks, and courses tend to emphasize communications skills. Contact the director of the certificate, Professor Laurie Johnson, 115 Calvin Hall, lauriej@ksu.edu, http://www.k-state.edu/artsci/primary/

Middle East Studies Minor

The Middle East Studies minor offers students a multidisciplinary exploration of one of the world’s most dynamic and strategically important regions. Combining coursework in political science, history, language, philosophy, and more, the program equips students with cultural, linguistic, and analytical tools essential for global citizenship and careers in international affairs. With flexible course options and opportunities for language study and study abroad, this minor complements a wide range of majors. Students can tailor their experience while gaining valuable insight into the politics, history, and cultures of the Middle East. Contract the director of the minor, Professor Sabri Ciftci, ciftci@ksu.edu

International and Area studies

Students interested in the multidisciplinary study of the relations among countries, or in the study of world regions, may wish to pursue a secondary major in international and area studies. For more information, contact the International and Area Studies, 104 Eisenhower Hall.

Internships and community service for credit

Students may gain practical experience and academic credit by participating in internships in city, county, state, national, or international governments and organizations or through K-State’s Community Service program. Contact Department Head Nathaniel Birkhead, 101C Calvin Hall. birkhead@ksu.edu.

Study abroad for credit

Opportunities exist for summer, one semester, or a full year of study abroad in many countries. These are coordinated through the Education Abroad Office on campus. Credits earned may be transferred back to K-State in consultation with appropriate departmental faculty. Many programs are exchanges where tuition costs are the same as studying at K-State. Contact the Education Abroad Office, 304 Fairchild Hall.

Programs

Bachelor of Arts

Bachelor of Science

Minor

Undergraduate Certificate

• Primary Texts Undergraduate Certificate

Other Program Choices

Courses

Political Science

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Kansas State University

Course Catalog