Open Doors to a Career in Politics, Law, and Government
Have you ever thought about starting a legal career one day or working on a political campaign? Or do you have an interest in American or world politics? Than the exciting field of Political Science might be right for you.
As a Political Science major, you will examine critical issues such as public policy, globalization, terrorism, the environment, civil rights, political development, and foreign policy. Political science uses both humanistic perspectives and scientific skills to examine the United States and all countries and regions of the world.
This interesting and dynamic field of study opens up many career opportunities and will prepare you to pursue work in and out of politics, law and government. Engage in your studies outside the classroom through experiences like Model U.N., or Moot Court, or spend a semester in Washington, D.C., working on a political campaign or doing an independent project of your own design. You will have the option to focus your studies on Pre-Law (for those planning to go on to law school), general Political Science or International Politics, depending on your particular interests.
Suppose you are interested in becoming a lawyer. In that case, the department offers an accelerated 3+3 program that allows you to earn your bachelor’s degree from Framingham State and law degree from Suffolk University Law School or UMass Dartmouth Law School in just six years, saving time and money.
FSU also has a 4+1 accelerated program for a bachelor’s degree in Political Science and a Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree if you have an interest in working in the public sector.
All of our programs place a strong emphasis on providing you with real-world experience before graduation. Graduates go on to careers across a range of fields that include business, law, consulting, teaching, journalism and communications, polling and campaign management, international organizations, finance, community service, nongovernmental organizations, and state, local, and federal government.
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The 70th Annual Harvard National Model United Nations Conference
Boston, MA. (February 15-18, 2024)
From left to right: G. Alleyne, J. Kuenzel, J. Hernandez, B. Kalombo, O. Sabally, J. Finkle, C. Rogers, S. Mohamed Abdali, B. Stevens
69th Annual Harvard National Model United Nations
Political Science, Law, & Global Studies participated in the 69th Annual Harvard National Model United Nations Conference (Feb. 16-19, 2023) Boston, MA. Left to right: Prof. Joseph Coelho (Chair), Jaylin Gemmel, Julia Taliaferro, Thao Bloom.
Spotlight on Political Science
Ezio Andrade '21
Political Science major
"I am incredibly pleased that I chose the political science major at Framingham State University. At FSU, the program offered various subfields from Pre-Law and American Government to Public Administration and International Politics. The faculty was fundamental to my learning. Their vast knowledge and direct engagement taught me how to better understand and analyze the functioning and organization of power and the State. Whenever I needed help – advice, mentorships, or letters of recommendation - the faculty was always there for me. Without their assistance, I do not believe that I would have been accepted to Northeastern University’s masters program in International Relations. I am truly satisfied that I took political science at FSU. The experience gave me the necessary skills to further my studies in this great field."
Blake Carlson '23
"Without the Political Science program at FSU, I would not have been able to achieve my goal of attending law school at Stetson University College of Law in Gulfport, Florida. Not only are the classes intellectually stimulating, but the professors are incredibly knowledgeable and teach you a skillset that prepares you for the next steps in your career.”
Honor Societies
The Honor Society of the Department of Political Science, Law, and Global Studies seeks to recognize the academic achievement and excellence of individuals with majors and minors in Political Science and Global Studies. In addition, eligible students are invited to join the two honor societies with which the department is affiliated, Pi Sigma Alpha and Sigma Iota Rho.
Pi Sigma Alpha. The National Political Science Honor Society was founded in 1920. Today, Pi Sigma Alpha hosts chapters on nearly 850 campuses and has inducted more than 300,000 members. Its rolls feature national, state, and local political leaders including one president, three Supreme Court justices, and dozens of members of Congress. The organization's mission is to recognize academic excellence; to stimulate scholarship and interest in politics, government, and democracy; to encourage diversity, equity, and inclusion in the discipline; and to support curricular and extracurricular activities that promote dialogue and civic engagement.
Sigma Iota Rho. All Global Studies majors and students with related academic interests are welcome to join our National Honors Society for International Studies chapter. The organization promotes and rewards scholarship among students who international studies and global studies to foster integrity and creative performance in the conduct of world affairs.
Internships and Fellowships
Students may apply for the semester-long Millennium Fellowship program sponsored by the United Nations Academic Impact and Millennium Campus Network. If accepted, students develop a plan of action and organize campus-wide sustainability initiatives or more.
Student Clubs & Governance
Discover your passion for political science through several of our dynamic student clubs! From organizing impactful events and engaging in spirited debates to participating in regional conferences, our clubs offer the ultimate platform to delve into real-world politics and develop valuable skills. Join us to connect with like-minded peers and shape the future of political discourse.
The FSU Political Science Club organizes events like lectures and panel discussions, host debates, and facilitates participation in conferences. The club also provides networking opportunities, offers research guidance, and engages in community service, all aimed at deepening members' understanding of politics and governance.
The Student Model UN Club participates in regional Model UN and Crisis conferences as an extracurricular activity and/or as part of course credit.
The SGA is a very active organization that supports many student programs and services. Joining SGA offers leadership experience, enhances organizational and communication skills, and provides opportunities to influence campus policies. It also allows for networking with university administration and peers and can be a powerful resume booster.