Overview

The Political Science programme at Portland State University provides students with the essential analytical tools to understand the nature of power and drive meaningful change in society. By exploring various political lenses, students gain a sophisticated understanding of how visions for local, national, and international communities are put into action. The curriculum is designed to be flexible, allowing learners to tailor their studies to their specific interests in governance and policy.

Why Political Science at Portland State University?

Studying in Oregon’s largest and most politically active city provides a unique advantage for students. Portland State University is situated in the heart of downtown, within walking distance of city, state, and federal offices. This prime location allows students to connect directly with professionals in law, public policy, and international justice.

The department offers a robust internship programme that bridges the gap between classroom theory and practical experience. Students have previously secured placements with the Oregon Congressional Delegation, the Governor’s Office, and various non-profit organisations. These opportunities help students build marketable skills and professional networks in a real-world political environment.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 34599 per year
National fee: USD 34599 per year
Local fee: USD 12999 per year

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

Syllabus

The curriculum is structured around four primary areas of study, ensuring a well-rounded education in the discipline. Students can choose to specialise in tracks such as International Development or Public Service. Modules may include:

American Politics
Comparative Politics
International Relations
Political Theory
Legislative Process
State and Local Politics
Research Methods

Careers with Political Science

Graduates from Portland State University are equipped with versatile skills in problem-solving, research, and critical communication. These competencies are highly valued across the public, private, and non-profit sectors. Many alumni pursue successful careers in government, social services, and educational institutions.

Common career paths for graduates include:

Policy Analyst
Legislative Assistant
Political Consultant
Intelligence Analyst
Public Relations Specialist
Political Journalist
International Assistance Staff
Legal Professional or Paralegal

The programme's strong links with alumni and local organisations provide a vital network for students entering the job market. Whether working on political campaigns or within government agencies, graduates are prepared to influence the political landscape.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

US Government

US Politics

Comparative Politics

International Politics

Political Theory

Law & Legal Studies

Women's Leadership

State and Local Politics

Race and Politics in the US

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-09-30 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-09-01 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2026-08-01 00:00:00 , National

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

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Credits

180 alternative credits

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Portland, United States

Disciplines

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

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Academic requirements

GPA

2.5

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

110

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

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PTE Academic

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IELTS

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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 have a cumulative (overall) grade point average (GPA) of at least 2.5 when converted to the U.S. 4.0 grading scale.
Meet the English Language Proficiency Requirement. You may be admitted to Portland State University and an Intensive English Language Program (IELP) pathway if you do not meet PSU's English Language Proficiency Requirement. Learn more about PSU’s English language programs.

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

34599 USD / year

≈ 34599 USD / year
Out-of-State

34599 USD / year

≈ 34599 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

12999 USD / year

≈ 12999 USD / year

Living costs

Portland

United States

1271 - 2262 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

Portland

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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