Undergraduate Program
Political Science is one of Notre Dame’s most popular majors, with a variety of undergraduate courses to choose from every semester, and more than 45 outstanding and accessible faculty members—many of whom have received teaching awards.
Major in Political Science
Majoring in political science helps students develop the reading, writing, analytical, research, and data skills they need in order to make the most of their time at Notre Dame and after graduation.
We offer a full range of courses in American politics, international relations, comparative politics, and political theory. The political science major combines breadth and depth, providing structure with enough flexibility to allow students to tailor their choice of courses to help explore, discover, and develop their interests.
Interdisciplinary Minors
The Department of Political Science does not offer a minor. An interdisciplinary minor is a great complement to a major in Political Science.
- Constitutional Studies
- Hesburgh Program in Public Service
- Notre Dame International Security Center
- Philosophy, Politics, and Economics
NDISC Certificate
Political Science majors are encouraged to apply for the Notre Dame International Security Center NDISC Certificate Program. Those selected for this competitive program gain access to specialized courses, research support, internship funding, and dedicated mentoring by accomplished thought leaders in the field.
NDISC seeks to educate exceptional undergraduate students in the area of international security, broadly defined. The foundation of the International Security Studies Certificate focuses on bridging the policy-scholarly gap.
Dedicated Advising Team
We encourage Political Science majors and undergraduates who are considering a major in Political Science to contact either of our two full-time undergraduate advisors. We can discuss your plans and provide information about classes, research opportunities, internships, careers, graduate school, and more.
Careers in Political Science
Our graduates use their education in political science to enrich their work in a wide variety of professions and live with purpose, and some go on to hold public office or work for the government.
Learn why 98% of recent Notre Dame Political Science majors found full-time employment, enrolled in graduate school, entered service programs, or launched independent projects within six months of graduation.
Experiential Education
Political Science majors take their learning outside the classroom to explore careers, improve skills and gain work experience sought by employers. To that end, the department supports internships, undergraduate research, study abroad, participation at military academy conferences, and senior thesis.
Globally Engaged Citizens
Notre Dame’s Globally Engaged Citizens program rewards the learning and experiences you are already engaging in — and will stand out on your resume and show employers and graduate schools that you’re prepared to be a global citizen.
Students in any college or school can earn the certificate by taking two classes and participating in cultural activities on and off campus. You may already be well on your way to meeting the requirements.