COURSE CURRICULUM

The Political Science major at the UNH Political Science Program provides students with a broad understanding of political systems, public policy, government institutions, international relations, and political ideas while developing strong analytical, research, and communication skills. The program requires between 10 and 12 courses totaling 40 to 48 credits, with students maintaining at least a 2.0 GPA in political science coursework and earning a minimum grade of C- in each course counted toward the major. Students begin by completing three introductory courses in areas such as American politics, world affairs, comparative politics, and politics and society, which provide foundational knowledge of political institutions and global political systems. After the introductory level, students complete advanced 500-level coursework across several major subfields including American politics, political thought, comparative politics, international politics, and political research methods. Students are required to study multiple subfields to ensure broad exposure to different political perspectives and systems while also choosing elective courses that align with personal interests and career goals. Topics available include public policy, elections, political parties, courts, feminism, political theory, dictatorships and democracy, Asian and Middle Eastern politics, revolution and protest movements, environmental policy, national security, international organizations, global markets, and international relations theory. The program concludes with a 700-level capstone seminar that emphasizes advanced analysis, research, and discussion of political issues. Students also benefit from flexibility because one political science course may simultaneously fulfill a university Discovery requirement. The curriculum encourages critical thinking about power, justice, governance, law, social conflict, democracy, globalization, and international affairs while preparing students to analyze complex political problems from local to global levels. Graduates are prepared for careers in government, law, public policy, journalism, nonprofit organizations, international relations, education, diplomacy, business, political consulting, and public service, as well as for graduate or professional study in political science, law, public administration, or international affairs.