Political Science Major

Political Science student in classroom

Interested in changing the world? Informed by Christian faith and a concern for justice, the Political Science major in SPU's School of Business, Government, and Economics will equip you to become the kind of citizen and leader who positively influences politics and public policy.

About the Political Science Major

As a Political Science major, you’ll wrestle with some of the most fundamental questions underlying faith and the political order. What is the relationship between Christian principles and public policy? How can Christians model both the character and truth of Jesus Christ in the public square? How should we all live in local, national, and global community?

As you explore these questions, you’ll receive broad training in political philosophy, government, law, public policy, geopolitics, international relations, and the political behavior of individuals and groups. You’ll also receive peer support and have a chance to participate in SPU's Political Union, a nonpartisan student group.

Degree Requirements

Political Science students are required to take a total of 69 credits, including a political science core of 39 credits plus 30 credits towards one of three tracks.

Pre-Law Studies

Many of our Political Science students pursue law school after graduation. The School of Business, Government, and Economics prepares you for law school with the necessary education, along with pre-law advising and resources.

Career Opportunities

Sample Job Titles

  • Community Organizer
  • Foreign Service Officer
  • Lawyer
  • Political Campaign Manager
  • Teacher/Professor

Possible Job Settings

  • City Government
  • Government Agencies
  • Health & Human Services Department
  • Law Firms
  • Non-Profit Organizations
  • See More

Faculty Contact

Ruth Ediger

Professor of Political Science
PhD, University of Nebraska

Email: ediger@spu.edu
Phone: 206-281-2937
Office: McKenna Hall 225

SBGE Student Anastasia

Politics, Faith, & Education

Anastasia Kharitonova, Political Science major, shares a little bit about how her faith and political science coursework informs her career aspirations in immigration advocacy.

Political Science at SPU

Meet Bruna and Andrew

See how two political science students – each with very different viewpoints – formed a unique friendship that helps them learn and grow in new ways.