Overview

The Political Science - Public Service programme at the University of California, Davis provides students with a deep understanding of how laws and regulations are created and influenced. This major is specifically designed for those who wish to focus on the formulation, implementation, and interpretation of public policy within various governmental and social frameworks.

Students explore the complex dynamics of political systems while developing the analytical skills necessary to evaluate the effectiveness of different policy approaches. The curriculum balances theoretical knowledge with practical application, ensuring graduates are prepared to navigate the intricacies of modern governance and civic leadership.

Why Political Science - Public Service at the University of California, Davis?

The University of California, Davis offers a distinctive approach to political education by integrating mandatory practical experience into the curriculum. Students benefit from the university's strong connections to political, governmental, and non-profit organisations, providing a bridge between classroom learning and professional practice.

Undergraduates have the unique opportunity to work directly with distinguished faculty members through various research projects and dedicated labs. The programme also encourages global perspectives through extensive study abroad options and global learning initiatives hosted directly on the campus.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 53472 per year
National fee: USD 53472 per year
Local fee: USD 14202 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum begins with foundational studies in contemporary political science and historical political frameworks. At the upper-division level, students can specialise in areas such as urban or environmental policy. Modules may include:

Contemporary Political Science
Historical Foundations of Modern Politics
Political Theory
American Government and Institutions
Public Law
International Relations
Comparative Political Systems
Urban Policy
Environmental Policy

Careers with Political Science - Public Service

Graduates of this programme are well-equipped for diverse roles within the public sector, non-profit organisations, and governmental agencies. The mandatory internship ensures that students gain direct experience in policy-related environments before graduation, enhancing their employability in competitive fields.

The degree also serves as a robust foundation for advanced academic pursuits. Many alumni continue their education in various graduate specialisations, including:

Law
Political Science
International Relations
Public Policy
Social Work
Public Health

By focusing on the practicalities of public service, the programme prepares individuals to become influential figures in the development and evaluation of policies that shape society at local, national, and international levels.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Local Government & Politics

Urban Public Policy

California State Government
Politics

The Legislative Process

The Presidency

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-22 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-12-02 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

115

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

180 alternative credits

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Davis, United States

Disciplines

Political Science View 1418 other Bachelors in Political Science in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

Students who are not residents of California must earn a GPA of 3.40 or higher.

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

115

Take A Free Practice Test!

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

To be competitive for freshman admission to UC Davis, prospective students must be on track to earn a high school diploma (or equivalent) and meet all UC freshman admission requirements. Our campus then reviews and assesses all applications as part of our UC Davis freshman application review process.

Freshman 1applicants are required to take the ACT with Writing or the SAT with Essay no later than December 31 of the year they apply.

International students must meet the same admission requirements and will be included in the same selection process as students from the United States.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

53472 USD / year

≈ 53472 USD / year
Out-of-State

53472 USD / year

≈ 53472 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

14202 USD / year

≈ 14202 USD / year

Living costs

Davis

United States

1100 - 1600 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Political Science - Public Service.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Davis

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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