The introductory courses for majors provide the freshmen experience and create common bonds among students in Political Science. Core offerings on American Politics and Policy have been augmented by others on comparative policies of countries ranging from Eastern Europe to Southeast Asia to Southern Africa.

The Department also offers specialized courses related to gender and citizenship, political economy, race and ethnicity, and public policy of interest to students in a variety of majors across the University.

In addition to traditional courses in political thought, recent course offerings have included work in state theory, feminist political theory, current theoretical conflicts in constitutional interpretation, and the politics of arts and culture.

Bachelor of Arts in Political Science

The Bachelor of Arts in Political Science consists of 36 to 45 credits of coursework in Political Science, and a Practicum involving 75 to 100 hours of practical experience in politics, law or government. The major begins with an introductory course in American government, comparative politics or international relations, and two classes on the methods and skills of the discipline. 

Students take upper level courses in four areas: 

• American Politics 
• International Relations and Comparative Politics
• Law & Politics
• Political Communication and Public Opinion

Students will complete the major with a practical experience in local government, law, or a service organization. Because many of our majors pursue careers in law and related fields, the department offers a variety of courses in constitutional interpretation, legal process, and other aspects of American and international law.

For more specifics about the Political Science major visit the undergraduate catalog.

• Degree Pathways
• Learning Outcomes
• Course Listing

For admissions information, visit the UMass Lowell Admissions and Aid website:

First Years

• Information for First Years
• Admissions Standards & Requirements
• Apply Online

Transfer Students

• Transfer information
• Admissions Standards & Requirements
• Apply Online

Political Science as a minor area of study consists of 18-24 credits of course work. At least 6 credits must be taken in course work at the 300 level or above and Political Analysis (3 credits) must be taken. Course work is selected by the student in consultation with his advisor. Students who desire to make the most effective use of a minor in Political Science in pursuing specific career objectives in occupational areas such as law, foreign service, business, management, and public service should consult with the political science faculty in choosing courses which are most appropriate as preparation for such career objectives.

For more information, visit the academic catalog.

• Political Science minor

Current undergraduate UMass Lowell students in any field of study with a GPA of 3.0 or greater may apply to the bachelor's to master’s program during their junior or senior year, and will be permitted to apply up to 12 graduate-level credits earned as an undergraduate to their MPA degree.

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