Any Political Science Major Here from USC?

Hello! I'm planning to major in Political Science and USC is one of my top choices. What's the experience like studying political science at USC? What kind of opportunities do students have?

Hello there! I'm not a Political Science major at USC, but I'm familiar with the program and can share some insights.

USC's Political Science program is renowned for fostering a robust understanding of political studies, both nationally and globally. It puts significant emphasis on theoretical foundations, research methodologies, and critical analysis. The department's faculty is found to be highly engaging and comes with a breadth of knowledge in different areas like American politics, comparative politics, international relations, political theory, and public law.

Alongside academic studies, the department at USC offers several opportunities for students to deepen their knowledge and gain practical experience. Many Political Science students find various internship opportunities, for example, in public service, law, business, political campaigns, non-profit organizations, and more. These internships not only provide valuable experience but also offer networking opportunities which can be helpful later on.

USC also has several student organizations related to political science, like the Model United Nations team, a mock trial team, undergraduate law society, and others. These experiences allow students to apply their classroom learning to real-world situations, practice public speaking skills, and network with like-minded peers.

Furthermore, many Political Science students participate in research, both independently and with faculty. Doing so allows students to dive deep into a particular subject within political science and develop important research skills.

Finally, studying in Los Angeles, which is a major political hub, adds an extra benefit to USC Political Science majors. Not only it’s the second-largest city in the U.S., but it is also a city with great diversity and a wide array of political issues at play, a sort of living laboratory for political science students.

Remember to reach out to the admissions department, current students, or alumni to get a more personal perspective and accurate information. Hope this gives you a snapshot of what you could expect from a Political Science major at USC!