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Political Science Department

Overview

The study of the art and science of politics examines human behavior within the context of governmental structures of power. The major in Political Science provides knowledge about governmental systems in general, which can be specialized to American government and politics, or international affairs. McDaniel's proximity to Washington, D.C., and Baltimore provides amazing options for student internship and career opportunities.

Political Science – American Politics and Law Specialization: For students interested in a deep dive into the history, inner workings and impact of American politics and law.
Political Science – International Studies Specialization: For students who want to explore and engage with the structure, process and philosophy of politics on the international stage.
Political Science Minor: A perfect complement to majors in history, sociology, philosophy, or a pre-law focus.
Political Science Major with Education Minor: For students interested in teaching and receiving certification at the secondary level.
Cross Cultural Studies Minor: A versatile minor, Cross Cultural Studies spans subjects like art, religion, history, and the social sciences.
International Studies Minor: The International Studies minor at McDaniel College combines courses on political inquiry and international politics with a strong foundation in political science. Prepare for a future on the global stage with an International Studies degree.

Internship Support Passionate about nonprofits, Political Science major interns with The Fund for American Studies

Sophomore Sana Askari earned the outstanding student award from The Fund for American Studies as part of its Academic Internship Program, which involved enrollment in a college course at George Mason University and an internship with the nonprofit International Child Art Foundation’s Global Arts Olympiad project. “It was a good opportunity to discover how policies affect people in different parts of the world in terms of marginalizing their access to opportunities and learn ways of making it easier for them," she says.

Read the full story.

Student Spotlights

Student Spotlight Class of 2023: Stephani Portillo Get to Know a Green Terror

Political Science and Self-Designed French Studies major Stephanie Portillo found independence at McDaniel — and abroad during a Jan Term. A National Security Fellow and Global Fellow, Stephani’s senior capstone examined the impact of political policies and the MS-13 gang in El Salvador. With mentorship from professors like Christianna Leahy, Gerard Keubeung, and Martine Motard-Noar, she learned to always ask questions and to dream big.

Read Stephani's full profile.

Class of 2019: Jasmin Chavez

Jasmin Chavez '19 brought a League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) chapter to McDaniel and says it has been one of the most transformative experiences of her life. Having the opportunity to empower council members so that they can serve as advocates in their respective communities has transformed the way she views leadership.

"Spanish professor Amy McNichols has pushed me to study abroad, has empowered me to learn more about my culture, and has been great at connecting me with different opportunities."

Read Jasmin's Q&A.

Meet Graduates of the Political Science Department

We're proud to call these recent graduates alumni, and prouder still to share a selection of their stories here – told as only they can tell them, in their own words.