Political Science

The Department of Political Science is dedicated to the comprehensive study, understanding, and teaching of politics. Our curriculum spans a wide range of topics in both domestic and international politics, enabling students to systematically analyze governance systems, public policies, political behavior, and institutional design.

Courses use quantitative and qualitative research methods and stress written and oral communication to increase the analytical skills of our students. Students learn to be effective, engaged citizens prepared for successful contemporary careers that require exceptional analytical capabilities and methodological expertise.

Academic Programs and Methodological Training

The Department of Political Science offers rigorous undergraduate and graduate pathways designed to develop critical competency in political systems and analytical frameworks:

• Undergraduate Program: An undergraduate degree provides students with a solid grasp of the American political system and other global political systems. Coursework examines these systems within the context of international conflicts, global forces, social movements, ideological systems, and diversity. Graduates are prepared for advanced study in graduate or professional schools, as well as for careers in government, business, and not-for-profit organizations.

• Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.): An advanced graduate degree designed to train scholars in sophisticated political analysis and research methodologies.

• Master of Arts (M.A.): A graduate degree program open exclusively to current Stanford University doctoral or professional school students (including the Schools of Law, Medicine, and Business). Note: The department does not offer a terminal M.A. program for external applicants.

Areas of Research

• American Politics: Research in this field studies U.S. institutions, elections, and public opinion using a wide range of perspectives and methods.

• Comparative Politics: Spanning Europe, Asia, Africa, and Latin America, this field examines political economy, social conflict, and institutions.

• International Relations: Research in this field addresses global issues such as conflict, trade, nuclear proliferation, and international law.

• Political Methodology: Political methodology develops statistical and formal tools for the scientific study of politics.

• Political Theory: Through normative theory and the history of political thought, scholars explore questions of justice, legitimacy, and power.