Department of Political Science

Pi Sigma Alpha: The National Political Science Honor Society

Congratulations to all of our students who were inducted into Pi Sigma Alpha!

For more information, visit the Pi Sigma Alpha website.

Why Study Political Science?

We believe that a degree in Political Science is one of the best tools for a student seeking a comprehensive liberal arts education.  Critical thinking, argumentative writing, analysis, persuasion, and social research are some of the foundational skills our students will have after completing a Political Science major. Additionally, our students are well prepared to compete in a competitive, global market requiring ethical and practical problem solving skills.

B.A. in Political Science

• This is the study of human behavior as it relates to governments, public policy and campaigns and elections.
• Contact:  Dr. Nancy Marion, nmarion@uakron.edu 

B.A. in Political Science - National Security Track

• This degree prepares students for national security occupations, such as the FBI, the intelligence community, or other national security careers.
• Contact: Dr. Karl Kaltenthaler, kck@uakron.edu

B.A. in Political Science/Juris Doctorate (3+3)

• In collaboration with the School of Law, this joint degree allows fourth-year undergraduate students to take courses in the Law School and receive both degrees in 6 years. 
• Contact: Dr. Philip Marcin, pjm@uakron.edu 

B.A. in Political Science, Philosophy and Economics (PPE)

• This unique, interdisciplinary degree provides students with a broad social science background that introduces them to concepts and ideas of the individual areas and how they interrelate with one another.
• Contact: Dr. Jim McHugh, mchugh@uakron.edu

M.A. in Political Science - Security Studies

• This advanced degree program is designed for individuals in careers in national security, intelligence, diplomacy, or other security related areas.
• Contact: Dr. Karl Kaltenthaler, kck@uakron.edu 

Master of Applied Politics (MAP)

• In collaboration with the Ray C. Bliss Institute of Applied Politics, the MAP is one of only a handful of graduate programs in the United States focusing on practical politics and experiential learning.  The degree is designed for students interested in election campaigns, managing organizations, and other political activities.    
• Contact: Dr. David Cohen, dbcohen@uakron.edu 

Juris Doctor/Master of Applied Politics

• In collaboration with the School of Law and Ray C. Bliss Institute of Applied Politics, this joint degree allows students to receive both degrees with 18 fewer credits than if they took the program consecutively.
• Contact: Dr. David Cohen, dbcohen@uakron.edu