Political Science

Political science is the study of governments, political processes, institutions, systems, and political behavior. The discipline also examines important public policies and issues. The Department of Political Science and Geography is home to scholars who study American politics; comparative politics; international relations; political economy; and a host of related fields.  Our political scientists use both social scientific and humanistic perspectives and tools and a variety of methodological approaches to examine the actors, processes, systems, and political dynamics of all countries and regions of the world. 

Why Study Political Science?

Are you interested in American politics?  International affairs?  Are you concerned with important public issues such as health care reform, sustainable growth, civil rights or the evolving international system? Do you think about what the ideal form of government would be, how a society should best allocate power and resources, and how countries and ethnic groups can best live together? 

Do you want to study these subjects and pursue a career that serves the public interest?  If so, consider studying toward a degree in political science at ODU.

Political science majors at ODU are equipped to work in a wide range of careers in a wide variety of fields. In recent years ODU political science majors have found careers in:
 
• campaign management and polling;
• electoral politics;
• federal, state and local government and government agencies;
• international organizations;
• law, law enforcement and the courts;
• journalism;
• military careers;
• nonprofit organizations;
• professional research;
• private business;
• primary and secondary education; and
• university and college teaching and research. 

Our faculty of fifteen full-time political scientists and twenty adjuncts teach, advise, and mentor more than 340 undergraduate majors. To become a political science major, speak with your academic advisor or visit the political science office at BAL 7000.