Department of Political Science
Overview
The Department of Political Science offers coursework and programs that are unique and innovative, integrating the traditional fields of American government, legal studies, and international relations in order to prepare you for a life and a career in an increasingly globalized world. You will study the ways in which governments address fundamental issues of power, justice, liberty, and order, as well as examine the impact of advances in science and technology on these themes. The department teaches not only the mechanics and strategies of the political process, but also examines limitations on government authority, and responsibilities of citizens.
45
political science courses
26
average class size
3
degree tracks: politics and the life sciences, digital politics and organization, and political institutions
Latest News
-
May 20, 2026
Who has the power and right to declare war in a democracy?
The Rear Vision podcast features Sarah Burns, associate professor of political science, discussing war powers reform and the shifting balance of authority between legislatures and executive leaders in decisions about military action.
-
April 20, 2026
Trump sidelined Congress’ authority over war on Iran – and lawmakers allowed it, extending a 75 year trend
The Conversation features an analysis from Sarah Burns, associate professor of political science, examining Congress’ limited oversight of U.S. military action in Iran, highlighting historical patterns of presidential power in war-making.
-
March 18, 2026
Trump Voters Aren't Wrong–They're Just Getting Bad Answers
RealClear Politics published an essay by Lauren Hall, associate dean in the College of Liberal Arts, that dissects why many working-class Americans feel like current systems of governance aren’t working for them.
Featured Work and Profiles
-
MaKayla Oscar finds purpose in global study, community, and growth at RIT
MaKayla Oscar is leaving RIT with more than a degree, she is leaving with a clearer sense of purpose, a stronger sense of self, and a deeper understanding of how meaningful change often begins with...
Read More about MaKayla Oscar finds purpose in global study, community, and growth at RIT -
Co-op & Internship Spotlight: First-hand Experience in Government and Policy
Through her internship at the U.S. House of Representatives, Kaitlin Sommer experienced the inner workings of national government up close. Working alongside Representative Joe Morelle’s team, she...
Read More about Co-op & Internship Spotlight: First-hand Experience in Government and Policy -
Meet Afnaan Qureshi, May 2025 Philosophy and Political Science Grad
He had always been an inquisitive and driven person, but at RIT, Afnaan Qureshi discovered that the study of philosophy ignited a special fascination and fueled his thinking in ways other disciplines...
Read More about Meet Afnaan Qureshi, May 2025 Philosophy and Political Science Grad -
RIT Alumna Takes on Top National Security Challenges
Brianna Alverson addresses national security challenges at the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory. Her work on cyber threats and emergency preparedness help secure the nation.
Read More about RIT Alumna Takes on Top National Security Challenges -
Tech-Driven Liberal Arts Education Sparks Political Career
Luke Rydelek RIT graduate Luke Rydelek reflects on how his tech-driven liberal arts education fueled his political journey, blending technology and advocacy for career success.
Read More about Tech-Driven Liberal Arts Education Sparks Political Career -
Internship Puts Student Closer to Goals of Advocacy and Change
Kaitlin Sommer, a dedicated political science student at RIT, gains invaluable experience interning with U.S. Rep. Joseph Morelle in Washington, D.C., where she combines her personal advocacy with...
Read More about Internship Puts Student Closer to Goals of Advocacy and Change
Undergraduate Programs
Students take coursework that examines the general themes of political science and explores the impact of globalization, advances in the life sciences, and the use of information technology in today’s political arena. Program electives allow you to further examine American politics, international relations, and comparative politics, which provides an integrated national and global political perspective. The degree program is flexible enough to accommodate a double major and offers options for a 4+1 BS/MS in science, technology and public policy or a 4+1 BS/MBA through Saunders College of Business.
