Political Science Degree (B.A.), Public Administration Concentration

Student smiling with laptop in Public Administration course

Shape Policy. Serve Communities. Build Your Future in Public Administration.

Earning a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with a Public Administration concentration at Westfield State University prepares you for careers in government, nonprofit, and policy roles. This 39-credit program combines core courses in political analysis, research, and theory with specialized study in government operations, budgeting, and policy implementation. Electives let you tailor your learning to interests like administrative law, metropolitan politics, and public management.

Hands-on experience is a key part of the program, with up to six internship credits applicable toward your degree. These internships provide practical opportunities in local, state, and federal agencies or nonprofits, helping you build valuable skills and professional connections.

Graduates are well equipped for roles in government management, policy research, city planning, and nonprofit leadership. Many go on to pursue advanced degrees such as an MPA, JD, or MA in Political Science, building on the strong foundation gained at Westfield State.

Program Highlights

  • Prepare for roles in government and policy
  • Earn credit through internships in public service
  • Choose electives that match your career goals
  • Learn from professors with real-world public administration experience

Start Your Public Service Journey

Build your path to leadership with Westfield State’s Political Science program.

Public Administration: A Foundation for Impactful Leadership and Real-World Experience

  • Campus globe in the summer with blue skies behind it.

    Curriculum Integrating Theory and Practice

    The Political Science major with a Public Administration concentration provides a balanced curriculum that combines foundational political theory, research methods, and analysis with practical coursework focused on public sector management. Students gain a deep understanding of how government functions at all levels, how policies are formulated and implemented, and the skills necessary to navigate complex administrative systems. This well-rounded approach equips graduates to critically analyze political issues and develop effective solutions for real-world challenges.

  • Political science student presenting research at the Undergraduate Research Conference.

    Internship and Experiential Learning Opportunities

    Westfield State emphasizes experiential learning through internships that give students hands-on experience in government offices, nonprofit organizations, and regulatory agencies. Students can earn up to six internship credits applied toward their degree, allowing them to connect academic knowledge with professional practice. These internships not only build practical skills but also expand professional networks, enhance resumes, and often lead to job opportunities after graduation.

  • Student talking to an employer at a job and career fair.

    Versatile Career Pathways in Public Service

    This program equips students with adaptable skills and knowledge that apply broadly across government, nonprofit, and policy-focused fields. Graduates develop critical thinking, analytical abilities, and leadership qualities that prepare them to navigate complex challenges and make a meaningful impact in diverse public service environments.

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 Degree (B.A.), Public Administration Concentration?

With a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, Public Administration Concentration, you gain a versatile foundation applicable to many fields. Here’s what you can do with this degree:

  • Policy Analyst
  • City Planner
  • Nonprofit Manager
  • Program Coordinator
  • Public Administrator
  • Community Development Specialist
  • Graduate Study
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Ready to learn more?

Course Requirements

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.

Public Administration Concentration (12 credits)

This concentration offers courses that allow students to explore how public policies are made and enforced in the United States, and how government agencies and regulatory bodies function.

12 total credits are required for this concentration. Choose four courses from below:

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.), Public Administration Concentration