Political Science

This fascinating major examines how and why societies choose to organize themselves in different ways—and how those decisions affect every aspect of life. It prepares you for leadership roles in a remarkable range of rewarding fields.

Study politics as a force in human affairs

Politics affects the schools we attend, the jobs we do, even the air we breathe. As a political science major, you’ll take a deep dive into the inner workings of political parties, government structures, interest groups and social movements. You’ll learn to think, write, debate, conduct research and analyze issues at a whole new level. In small classes, you’ll work side-by-side with outstanding faculty. You’ll prepare to express your ideas effectively, to listen thoughtfully, and to lead teams with competence and integrity. This major is ideal preparation for law school and for a wide variety of meaningful, intellectually engaging careers.

Political science majors prepare for in-demand careers by choosing an area of academic concentration:

  • Political Philosophy explores humanity at its best and worst, and studies history’s most insightful observers and thinkers.
  • Political Studies examines the operations of government and formal and informal political institutions, and considers their impact on individuals and societies.
  • International Affairs examines how geography, language, beliefs, climate and wealth affect global politics.
  • Legal Thought is a popular choice for students interested in law school. Courses such as constitutional law and environmental law expose students to questions at the heart of the law school curriculum. The department houses Dominican’s pre-law advising program.
More ways to learn, on campus and beyond

Practical experience is built into the political science curriculum. Our internships will take you inside government and political operations from Oak Park to Chicago to Washington and beyond. We make our connections your connections, so you can test-drive your dream job in the real world. You can combine academic study with compassionate service to people in need—or complete your own, hands-on research project in collaboration with faculty (and with university funding)—or both. Finally, you can immerse yourself in a different society, system and culture: Dominican offers study abroad programs, in Europe, Asia, Africa, the Caribbean and Latin America.

Raunel Urquiza

Dominican University Graduate

“I was so proud to attend Dominican. It felt like home. The entire community were incredibly supportive and encouraged me to pursue my passions. Now I’m working to become a community organizer and urban planner.”

Outstanding preparation for graduate school and the job market

A survey of U.S. employers by Hart Research Associates found that 93% of bosses say that “a job candidate’s demonstrated capacity to think critically, communicate clearly and solve complex problems” is the most important factor in hiring decisions. That is the essential skill set of our political science graduates. Our curriculum is designed to prepare you for lifelong intellectual and professional competence. In the workplace or in law school, our graduates know what they’re doing. They’re informed, thoughtful, open to new ideas and ready to thrive through long and meaningful careers. They have earned their way into leadership positions in the professions of their choice.

Katherine McLaren

Dominican University Graduate

“I really enjoyed the tight-knit community at Dominican. The professors are totally invested in your success. I was able to double major in political science and theatre. Now I’m planning to attend law school while keeping a hand in the theatre world.”