Welcome to the Department of Political Science

Our faculty are national leaders in their fields of expertise; they are also among USC's most distinguished teachers and mentors. We cover such traditional areas of study as American Politics, Comparative Politics, Law and Public Policy, Political Theory, and International Relations, but our faculty also have expertise in exciting new areas such as Human Rights, Race/Ethnic Politics, Urban Politics, Political Communication, Civic Engagement, Political Behavior/Psychology, and Environmental Politics.

Political Science attracts students who have a wide range of intellectual interests-including philosophy, law, economics, history, culture, psychology, regional studies-but who also have an abiding desire to better understand the vital questions associated with politics and government, including the conditions that promote (or inhibit) democracy, freedom, justice, human rights, effective policymaking, and public service. Students in our program learn that the study of politics can be rigorous and systematic rather than merely ideological. They master classic works and engage contemporary questions in an academic setting that is lively and intellectually diverse. For undergraduates a degree in Political Science ensures all of the benefits of a great liberal arts education (including the development of essential analytic and expressive skills) but also provides an excellent background for graduate study and careers in politics, law, administration, and business.

Careers for students of political science abound. You can learn more about the various career opportunities that exist by visiting our Careers page.

Please browse the page to learn more about the wonderful people and exciting programs in our department. If you have questions you can email us at posc@college.usc.edu or call our main office at 213-740-6998.