Political Science Degree (B.A), American Politics Concentration

Political science student delivering a speech at a podium.

Explore the American Political System with a Concentration in American Politics

At Westfield State University, students pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science can deepen their understanding of U.S. government and policy through a concentration in American Politics. This concentration offers a focused exploration of how American political institutions function at both the local and national levels, and how public policy is shaped, implemented, and challenged.

The American Politics concentration includes courses that examine key topics such as the U.S. Supreme Court, American Political Thought, Presidency and Congress, State and Local Government, and American Public Policy. Students also have the opportunity to participate in the Washington Internship Program and other hands-on experiences that bring classroom learning to life. At least two courses must be at the 300 level, ensuring advanced study and critical analysis.

This flexible and practical curriculum helps students build the analytical, research, and communication skills essential for careers in government, law, public service, and policy advocacy—or for pursuing graduate study in political science or related fields.

Program Highlights

  • Select from topics like Congress, courts, and public policy
  • Gain hands-on learning through internships—local or in Washington, D.C.
  • Apply up to 6 internship credits toward the major
  • Engage in meaningful discussions and get personalized attention

Ready to Turn Your Passion for American Politics Into a Career?

Discover where a Political Science degree can take you.

Launch Your Career in American Politics, Law, and Public Service

  • Student speaking with classmates while seated in front of a laptop.

    Explore Politics Where Policy Meets People

    The American Politics concentration goes beyond textbooks, offering students the chance to examine how political decisions affect everyday lives. From voting rights to social policy, students investigate real-world issues through a lens that’s both historically grounded and forward-looking. With faculty support, students tackle complex questions about justice, equity, and governance—preparing them to become thoughtful leaders in their communities and beyond.

  • Westfield State Student Government Association hosting Massachusetts legislators.

    Gain Career-Ready Political Science Skills

    Students in the American Politics concentration develop strong skills in research, policy analysis, and strategic communication. Through projects and presentations, students build real-world experience and confidence in navigating political systems and legal frameworks. These political science skills are in demand across sectors—from nonprofits and government agencies to legal and advocacy roles, making this a smart path for students interested in law school, public administration, or campaign work.

  • Student and faculty member shaking hands at a campus event.

    Personalized Learning and Political Science Internships

    Westfield State offers a student-centered approach to studying American government and politics, with small class sizes and dedicated faculty mentorship. Students benefit from political science internships, including the prestigious Washington Internship Program, which brings classroom theory to life in a hands-on setting. Whether you're aiming for a career in politics or planning graduate study in law or public policy, our program supports your goals every step of the way.

Program Details

Learning Outcomes
  • Students will demonstrate critical political thinking, reading, writing and speaking skills.
  • Students will identify and articulate an ideological stance.
  • Students will demonstrate the ability to evaluate the qualitative and quantitative political research of others, and conduct their own political research.

What Can You Do with a Political Science, American Politics Concentration, B.A.?

With a Political Science, American Politics Concentration, B.A., you can pursue a variety of career paths and opportunities, including:

  • Policy Analyst
  • Legislative Assistant
  • Public Affairs Specialist
  • Government Administrator
  • Political Campaign Staffer
  • Paralegal
  • Nonprofit Program Coordinator
Political Science student smiling outside on campus green.

Ready to learn more?

Course Requirements

Program Description

Students wanting to earn a degree in Political Science with a concentration in American Politics must complete a specific set of requirements for the concentration as defined below, in addition to the required coursework for the Political Science major.

Requirements for the Political Science Major

39 total credits are required to fulfill this major's requirements, as defined below:

  • 12 credits of Political Science Core courses 
  • 12 credits within the chosen concentration
  • 15 credits of additional Political Science electives

Students pursuing the Interdisciplinary Options for Law and International Studies concentrations should expect to complete 18 credits within their concentration, and 9 credits of elective coursework.

Students transferring in coursework from other schools must complete a minimum of 18 credits in Political Science at Westfield State University.

The Department of Political Science encourages students to participate in internships. Students may apply up to 6 Internship credits toward the 39 credit major.

  • 3 of these Internship credits may be applied to the concentration.
  • Up to 3 of these Internship credits may be applied toward the 18-credit minor.

For details about Political Science Internship credits, please click here to view the department's Internship manual, or contact the department.

Required Major Core Courses (12 credits)

Required Electives (9-15 credits)

Students must complete 15 credits of additional Political Science coursework.

Students pursuing the Interdisciplinary Options for Law or International Studies concentrations should expect to complete 9 credits in this area.

American Politics Concentration - 12 credits

Courses that examine how American government - local and national - functions and how policies are formulated and implemented in the United States (12 credits: choose four, at least two at the 300-level).

Additional Graduation Requirements

All students must meet the University Graduation Requirements and complete a general education or common core of studies, distributed among the different academic areas as detailed in General Education: WISE or Common Core.

Get Big School Features with Small School Advantages

We offer high-quality academics, unique learning opportunities, and a gorgeous campus—and we have small classes, accessible faculty, and one-on-one support. 

You'll join fellow motivated students ready to make the most of the college experience through active participation. Become part of a caring and committed community that understands and embraces the bridge between academic study and civic responsibility.

  • 92%+

    of faculty hold doctorates

  • 700+

    internship opportunities

  • Study abroad

    in 35+ countries 

Learn from Experienced Faculty in Small Classes

Students in Westfield State University’s political science major program are led by a group of accomplished faculty with diverse backgrounds in law, public administration, international relations, political theory, and more. Each faculty member is dedicated to keeping up to date with current trends in the discipline through active participation in professional development, publication, and conference attendance and presentations. And, with small class sizes, students in the Political Science BA program will be able to interact closely with and learn from these experienced faculty. 

Faculty directory 

Political science students smiling with faculty at an academic awards ceremony.

Earn Two Degrees in Less Time

Westfield State University offers an Early Entry Master of Public Administration, Policy, and Civic Engagement program for outstanding undergraduates. Earn your bachelor’s and master’s degrees in just 5 years! Enroll in graduate-level courses during your senior year, with 6 credits counting toward both degrees. Develop essential skills in Public Administration and choose from concentrations like Criminal Justice Administration, Nonprofit Management, and Public Management. Become a leader in government and non-profit organizations with an MPA from WSU.

The Political Science Department also offers pre-law advising for those interested in attending law school. One of our department’s faculty serves as advisor to Westfield States’ 3+3 program with UMass Law School. Once enrolled in this program, students may complete a BA and JD degrees in six years, instead of seven years needed when following a regular path of college and law school.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to submit SAT/ACT scores or an essay when I apply?

Westfield State University does not require an application essay, SAT and/or ACT scores, or letters of recommendation (except for special program admissions).   

All first-year applicants are reviewed for admission based on their high school record. First-year applicants must meet the minimum eligibility requirements established by the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education (DHE) in order to qualify for admission to a state university. 

Learn more about the application process and admissions here.

How much does Westfield State University cost?

Westfield State University offers a comprehensive university experience at an affordable cost—with many options for financial aid. Visit our Cost and Aid page to learn more. 

Will I receive academic support?

We’re invested in your success. Whether you need a little help adjusting to college, study strategies, tutoring, or disability services, the team at the Academic Achievement Department is ready to help. Our mission is to provide you with the tools to explore academic opportunities as well as to plot strategies for continued growth. 

Learn more about our student support services here.

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Political Science Degree (B.A), American Politics Concentration