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Major in Political Science

Become a leader • Complete your own research • Make an impact

Learn how to tackle big questions.

In the political science major, you'll learn the workings of political systems and become familiar with patterns of political behavior. At JBU, you will integrate faith with political science and participate in thoughtful and challenging discussions in your classes.

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Develop your mindset

Students majoring in political science learn to think critically, write effectively and see the big picture. They come to identify why they believe what they believe.

Solve big problems

The political science major isn't just about preparing to work in politics and government. It's about gaining a deeper understanding of complex and important questions like how we should govern ourselves.

Pursue your calling

Students have gone on to hold positions in organizations like the American Enterprise Institute, the Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission, and the United States Senate, and have studied at graduate schools like Harvard Law School, Georgetown University Law Center, and the Bush School of Government and Public Service.

Discuss difficult, relevant concepts at JBU.

About political science

Political science majors not only explore complicated issues about how people ought to govern themselves, but they also seek to understand how Christians can better engage in political discourse and sectors. 
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In politics, people have a lot of opinions and a lot of reasons why they believe what they do. Sometimes differences in political opinions, beliefs, and actions can result in conflict between groups of people. I have learned how to hear all sides, assess the information I am being told and move forward. Learning how to approach issues with an open mind while also staying true to what I believe is an invaluable skill to possess throughout all aspects of life.

Emma Beagle, ’24

Political Science

Tailor your degree

The political science department goes above and beyond at launching students into the careers they want to land and provides students with the necessary opportunities and resources to leave JBU feeling empowered. 

Internships

While the political science major doesn't require an internship, it is strongly encouraged. JBU faculty help students secure the internships they want, knowing many internships later turn into post-graduation jobs.

Double-majoring

Due to the nature of the work and time students commit to the political science major, there is plenty of space for students to double-major to add a degree of specialization to their education. For example, previous students have found adding psychology, economics or intercultural studies majors to their coursework to be beneficial.

Pre-law minor

JBU understands that many political science students want to get into law school. The pre-law minor not only provides students with the necessary skills for performing well on the LSAT, but also supports students so they feel competent and equipped when they get to law school. 

What to expect as a political science student at JBU

Engage in intelligent discourse

JBU has organized the political science major to get the most from our students. Classes are small and promote thoughtful discussion. Assignments give students the creativity to explore problems and issues important to them. 

Participate in Model UN

Each February, JBU sends student delegates to the Midwest Model United Nations (MMUN) meeting in St. Louis, Missouri. These students represent their assigned nation amidst hundreds of other student delegates from dozens of regional colleges and universities. 

Graduate prepared

Because of the broad training political science majors receive, you can find them in virtually any profession, including (but certainly not limited to): Federal, state and local government, international nongovernmental organizations, lobbying, policymaking and many more.

My political science degree quickly opened numerous doors for me after graduation, but the additional opportunities extended to me while still in college invigorated and inspired me to succeed. I would highly recommend the JBU political science track to any student curious about our world, state, and neighbors.

Seth Billingsley '21

JD candidate at Harvard Law School

Meet our political science professors

Miguel -Rivera

Miguel Rivera

Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice

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Bennett-Daniel

Daniel Bennett

Department Chair, Associate Professor of Political Science; Assistant Director, Center for Faith and Flourishing

The political science major at JBU opened more doors for me than anything else... I was able to get a job before graduation with an organization that aligns completely with my values and ambitions. The major allowed me to study abroad twice, graduate early, travel to conferences, win awards at competitions, and secure three amazing internships.

Brooke Kramer '20

Legislative Correspondent for Sen. James Lankford (R-OK)

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479-524-9500 jbuinfo@jbu.edu

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John Brown University

2000 W. University St., Siloam Springs, AR 72761

479-524-9500 jbuinfo@jbu.edu

JBU does not unlawfully discriminate based on race, color, national or ethnic origin, sex, age, disability, marital status, military status, or age in the administration of its educational policies, admissions, financial aid, employment, educational programs, or activities.

John Brown University is a leading private Christian university, training students to honor God and serve others since 1919. Arkansas’ top-ranked regional university (U.S. News Best Colleges 2019), JBU enrolls more than 2,100 students from 38 states and 53 countries in its traditional undergraduate, graduate, online and concurrent education programs. JBU offers 41 majors, with top programs including engineering, nursing, family and human services, biology, graphic design and construction management.

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