Political Science at Brown: How good is the program?

Hey fellow students! I'm considering majoring in political science and Brown University is one of my top choices. Can anyone tell me what makes the political science program at Brown special? Are there any unique opportunities or extracurriculars related to this major?

Hello!

Brown University's political science program is highly regarded and offers numerous unique features that can make it an excellent choice for students interested in politics, government, and international affairs.

One standout aspect of the program is its notable faculty. At Brown, you'll have the opportunity to learn from renowned professors who are experts in their fields, as well as visiting scholars and practitioners who bring real-world experience to the classroom. This access to professors who are actively engaged in research and policy-making can give you insight into the subject that goes beyond the textbook.

Brown's curriculum in political science is also quite flexible, thanks to the Open Curriculum. Since you are not required to take any particular classes, you can tailor your coursework to your specific interests and passions in the field. For example, you can choose from subfields like comparative politics, international relations, political theory, and American politics. You may also decide to pursue interdisciplinary studies by taking related courses in other departments, such as economics, history, or sociology, as, without needing to worry about any general education requirements, you have complete flexibility to do so.

Regarding extracurricular activities, Brown offers numerous opportunities to get involved. There are several clubs and organizations related to politics, like the Brown Political Review, and the Brown Democrats or Brown Republicans. Some of these groups are focused on political activism, while others involve fostering discussions and debates on political issues. Participating in these clubs can help build connections with like-minded peers and potentially lead to internships, research opportunities, or even future job prospects.

Additionally, Brown has established connections with various institutions and organizations, both domestically and internationally, that can provide their students with research opportunities, internships, and study abroad programs. These experiences can help you apply the theoretical knowledge you gain in the classroom to real-world situations and enhance your understanding of political science in practice.

Studying abroad can be an especially key part of your experience as a political science major at Brown, as the world becomes increasingly interconnected. For example, you could experience living and learning in one of the world's most influential cities while at London School of Economics, or choose between Senegal, France, and Brazil to deepen your understanding of the importance of global governance.

All in all, Brown's political science program offers a well-rounded, rigorous, and flexible educational experience, with exceptional faculty and ample opportunities for extracurricular involvement. The program's unique features, combined with the Open Curriculum, can help you forge a path in political science that aligns perfectly with your personal passions and career goals.

If you end up applying to Brown and are looking for tips on how to maximize your chances of acceptance, check out this blog post from CollegeVine, which breaks down how to tackle their school-specific supplemental essays: https://blog.collegevine.com/how-to-write-the-brown-university-and-plme-essays. After all, Brown is a highly selective institution, and the essays are often just the thing that distinguishes one talented applicant from another.

Best of luck with your college search, and future pursuits in political science!