1. Academics
2. Traditional Undergraduate
3. Political Science

At Belhaven University the Bachelor of Arts in Political Science introduces students to the study of political thought, political behavior, and political institutions, all from the perspective of a Christian worldview. We take care to provide a foundation of knowledge in all the major subfields of political study while designing our political science program to maintain a focus on the ultimate goal of this degree track -establishing justice in civil government.

For students seeking a pre-law degree, a degree in political science is often the route of choice. This degree program seeks to develop the student's ability to understand and become involved in the political process, while providing an excellent foundation for legal and other graduate studies. Belhaven's Department of History and Political Science offers internships in various government offices and other public policy areas, leading students down career paths in education, law, church, government, media, travel and business.

Why choose a political science degree with Belhaven?

Our professors help you develop the skills necessary to be competitive in the modern economy. A political science degree is designed to not only provide you an understanding of government, law and politics, but to train you to read thoroughly, think critically, analyze carefully, evaluate fairly, write professionally and communicate clearly. 

The small class sizes, personalized instruction and career advisement set us apart from other universities. Many compelling issues such as poverty, war, justice, terrorism, morality and economics are debated and discussed in class. Through coursework, we emphasize the importance of a biblical worldview and how it applies to government, law and politics.

What will I study?

• American Constitutional Law
• Foreign Policy of the United States
• Contemporary Political Theory
• American Political Parties and Politics
• Legislative Process and Behavior

What can I do with a Political Science degree?

• Congressional staff
• Lawyer/Paralegal
• Campaign Manager
• Political Correspondent
• Economic Development
• Government Offices
• Strategic Planning Consultant
• Public Policy
• Public Opinion Analyst
• Graduate studies in law, government, business and education.

What kind of opportunities will I have as a political science major that will contribute toward my career?

• Internships will give you hands-on experience in a variety of settings such as:
• Government offices
• Areas of public policy
• Members of Congress, both locally and in Washington, D.C.
• Local and national political advocacy groups, such as the Heritage Foundation.
• You can also join Belhaven’s student organization Young Americans for Liberty to stay involved with the political process.

What are Belhaven political science graduates doing now?

• Running campaigns
• Working in political advocacy
• Serving in government bureaucracies
• Serving in the military and law enforcement
• Working in economic development
• Teaching
• Working in education administration, finance and business
• Completing law school
• Practicing law
• Earning graduate degrees in political science, business administration and education.