Overview

The Political Science B.A. at University of California, Irvine (UCI) provides students with a deep understanding of how power and governance function across individual, group, and global contexts. This undergraduate programme introduces learners to diverse methodologies for gathering and interpreting information regarding political processes. By engaging with complex societal issues, students cultivate the critical thinking and communication skills necessary for professional success in various fields.

Why Political Science at University of California, Irvine (UCI)?

Students at University of California, Irvine (UCI) benefit from a curriculum that balances theoretical knowledge with practical application. The department offers unique opportunities for experiential learning, including the UCDC Internship Programme in Washington, D.C., and the University's Education Abroad Programme. High-achieving students may also apply for the departmental honours programme, which involves conducting original research and completing a senior thesis under the guidance of expert faculty members.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 56682 per year
National fee: USD 56682 per year
Local fee: USD 19080 per year

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

Syllabus

The curriculum is structured around core introductory modules followed by specialised upper-division study. Modules may include:

Political Analysis
American Government
Political Theory
International Relations
Politics Around the World
Race and Ethnicity in Political Science
Law
American Politics and Government
Comparative Politics

Careers with Political Science

Graduates of the programme are equipped with versatile skills that facilitate entry into numerous professional sectors. The training in analytical thinking and clear writing prepares students for effective performance in government, law, international organisations, and public policy. By mastering the ability to understand and influence political systems, alumni are well-positioned for roles that require sophisticated research and strategic communication in both public and private industries.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Political Science: Political Analysis

Political Science: Micropolitics

American Government

Political Theory

International Relations

Politics Around the World

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-08-21 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-12-01 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

Irvine, United States

Disciplines

Political Science View 1416 other Bachelors in Political Science in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

3.4

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

115

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

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

You must receive a 3.0 GPA (3.4 for non-California residents) or higher in the 15 required “a-g” subject courses, with no grade lower than a C.

UCI will not consider SAT or ACT scores for admission or scholarship purposes. After enrollment, exams may be used for class placement or some graduation requirements.

Personal Insight Questions (your personal insight questions should be exactly that – personal. This is your opportunity to tell us about yourself, what matters to you, your hopes, ambitions, life experiences, and inspirations. Key points about the personal insight questions include: freshman applicants choose four out of eight questions to answer, each response is limited to a maximum of 350 words. We encourage you to take your time. Be open, be reflective, and be honest. Your personal insight questions provide context for the rest of your application.)

English proficiency requirements

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

56682 USD / year

≈ 56682 USD / year
Out-of-State

56682 USD / year

≈ 56682 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

19080 USD / year

≈ 19080 USD / year

Living costs

Irvine

United States

1560 - 2585 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.

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

Irvine

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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