Welcome to Political Science

The student of politics seeks to understand how governments are organized and structured, how political processes are employed, and the relationship of structures and processes to societal purposes.

Since political activity may embody and reflect the full range of human values, the study of politics includes realities of politics while at the same time asking how well political systems work, what purposes are and ought to be served, and what effects result from political phenomena. Political Science encourages a critical understanding of government and politics in the belief that a knowledgeable, interested, and aware citizenry is needed in a democratic society.

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Department of Political Science Statement on Racial Violence
Chino Y Chicano Ep 127 Maria Chavez on the shifting Latino vote

Dr. Maria Chavez, chair of the political science department at Pacific Lutheran University where she specializes in American government, public policy, Latino as well as racial and ethnic policies, shares her insights on the Latino vote in the 2024 Presidential Election.

justin-kjolseth
Justin Kjolseth ‘10 talks about life as an Assistant Attorney General
Laney Abbott had the honor to present her capstone research at the Pacific Northwest Political Science Association conference, November 8th, 2024, hosted by The Foley Institute, Washington State University. Congratulations, Laney!
Careers

What can you do with your political science degree?

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Activities & Field Trips

See political science at work in the real world.

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Internships

Bridging classroom learning and the professional workplace.

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