Our BA in Political Science program covers political philosophy, statistical methods, American government, law and international studies, providing an education in pre-law, international studies, political philosophy and public administration.
What is a BA in Political Science degree?
Reduce tuition by up to $24k
Why earn a BA in Political Science at SAU?
SAU's Political Science program provides in-depth approaches to multiple areas in the field, including political philosophy, statistical methods, American government, law and international studies.
Expansive career options
Graduates have a wide range of career options, including law, business, nonprofits, education and all levels of government.
Experiential learning
Students take part in formative activities such as Mock Trial, which is coached by a local lawyer and SAU alum.
Pairs well with other majors
PoliSci majors are encouraged to consider combining the degree with a major such as History or Criminal Justice.
3+3 path to law school
Qualified students may apply to UI Law School in junior year, completing both degrees in six years.
What you’ll learn in your PoliSci degree program
Political Science students will learn varied skills and develop knowledge in areas critical to a wide variety of career options.
- Textual analysis
- Clear written and oral communication
- Statistical methods
- Ethical and legal reasoning
- Policy analysis
- Research methods
Explore BA in Political Science courses
- This degree will require you to complete a total of 120 credits.
- You will complete 39 gen ed credits, 36 major credits, and 45 elective credits.
Sample courses
| Class code | Class title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| PSCI 110 | Law and Society | 3 credits |
| PSCI 120 | Truth, Justice, & Leadership | 3 credits |
| PSCI 130 | Global Issues | 3 credits |
| PSCI 301 | Campaigns and Elections | 3 credits |
| PSCI 400 | Research in Political Science | 3 credits |
How much does a BA in Political Science cost?
The cost of your degree depends on several factors, like scholarships, housing, meal plans and transfer credits. New students also pay a $100 matriculation fee. You'll need to budget for books, supplies, materials, transportation, personal costs, loan fees, and other expenses. Explore total cost of attendance.
Full-time student living on campus
| Expense | By semester | By year |
|---|---|---|
| Full-time tuition (12-18 credits)* | $18,189 | $36,378 |
| Housing** | $4,019 | $8,038 |
| Food*** | $2,670 | $5,340 |
| Technology fee | $140 | $280 |
| Total direct charges (billable) | $25,018 | $50,036 |
*Based on 2024-2025 tuition and fees. Tuition and fees are subject to change each summer.
**This cost is estimated, actual housing cost will vary by student selections.
***Cost estimate based on 3 meals per day.
How much does housing cost?
SAU offers diverse housing options to meet the needs of our students, including traditional dormitories to apartment-style living. The cost of your housing varies based on where you decide to live and the meal plan you choose.
How does SAU support Political Science students?
Faculty get to know students individually, help them find the programs and activities for their personal and professional development and assist with Mock Trial, Mock UN, internships in law or politics, Summer Research Institute and Peace Corps Preparation.
Political science faculty
Other support resources for Political Science students
The Student Success Center at SAU
Access free tutoring, study groups, and supplemental instruction through our Student Success Center.
Accessibility Resource Center
Need classroom accommodations, alternative exam arrangements, or disability support strategies? The Accessibility Resource Center is here to help.
Career services
Our Academic and Career Planning Center is ready to help you polish your resume and land a job or internship to launch your career.
Are cost savings available for the Political Science program?
SAU believes education should be accessible to all. We offer a variety of scholarships and financial aid options to make college more affordable for our students so they can succeed academically and financially.
Ambrose Advantage Scholarship
Through the Ambrose Advantage Scholarship program, a tuition-free St. Ambrose University education is available to any Pell Grant-eligible Iowans. Learn more about the Ambrose Advantage.
Merit-based and institutional scholarships
St. Ambrose offers excellent scholarships and grants based on your strong academic performance, your talent in fine arts or athletics or your community involvement. Explore SAU scholarships.
Transfer previous credits into SAU
At SAU, you may be able to transfer previous college credit toward your bachelor’s degree, saving you significant time and money. Learn how to transfer credits.
Campus resources for Political Science students
Political Science students participate in Constitution Day and the Folwell Lecture and have the option to become involved in several other activities including Mock Trial and Summer Research Institute.
“ I got very involved in sustainability my senior year at Ambrose. I got to host a podcast and spearhead many events like the annual Sustainability Fest & Litterpalooza with one of my best friends because of the endless support Ambrose provides. I also got to play a hand in the revitalization of the Hayes Courtyard. Ambrose is a place that values and uplifts students' voices.”
-Laura Meloy ‘22, BA in Political Science and International Studies
Admission requirements for a Political Science degree
Here are the admissions requirements for our BA in Political Science.
- You must have a minimum cumulative, unweighted GPA of 2.5 or above on a 4.0 unweighted scale from an accredited high school.
- You must provide an official high school academic transcript.
- Applicants whose first language isn't English must meet the English proficiency requirement for admission.
- Optional: Provide test scores. SAU is a test-optional school,* but if you'd like to send your scores, send them as part of your high school transcript or directly from the testing service.
*Test scores are required for admission to specific programs and eligibility for top academic scholarships. Please contact your Admissions Counselor for details.
International student requirements
If you live outside of the U.S. there are different admissions requirements. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Official transcripts from secondary education
- A minimum 2.5 CGPA out of a 4.0 scale or equivalent
- Proof of English language proficiency (minimum scores: TOEFL - 79, IELTS - 6.0)
- Copy of your passport and other documentation
What can I do with a BA in Political Science?
Your degree can help you reach your professional goals. SAU can never promise a career or particular outcome upon graduating. Here is a list of potential job titles, traits and settings graduates of our Political Science program could achieve.
Potential job titles
- Political Analyst
- Political Consultant
- Government Relations Specialist
- Diplomat/Foreign Service
- Lawyer
- Intelligence Analyst
Potential employment settings
- Law office
- Public official
- Municipal or state government
- Corporate management
- Nonprofit management
- High school or university
Traits of a Political Science graduate
- Professional demeanor
- Objectivity
- Diplomacy
- Responsibility
- Imagination
- Empathy
Industry facts
- The job outlook for research analysts is rapid growing with a 23% margin, this percentage demonstrates much faster growth than the average job in the political science field.
- Research analysts for political science make an average of $41.21 per hour, effectively summing up to $85,720 per year, this pay grade comes with about five years of experience.
For more information on employment and wages, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics' Occupational Outlook Handbook.
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With more than 65 undergraduate and graduate programs, there’s something for everyone at St. Ambrose University! Explore our programs to find your place at SAU.
