Overview

The Political Science bachelor degree at Portland State University provides students with the essential analytical tools to understand the nature of power and drive meaningful change in society. This programme encourages students to explore how political systems function and how individual action can influence local, national, and international governance.

Students can choose from a variety of perspectives to tailor their education to their specific interests. The curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking and practical understanding of the political forces that shape our world, from the domestic policies of the United States to the complex interactions of international diplomacy.

Why Political Science at Portland State University?

Studying in the heart of Oregon’s largest city provides a unique vantage point for observing public policy and social justice in action. The campus is situated within walking distance of city, state, and federal offices, allowing students to connect with professionals in law, politics, and international justice.

The university offers a robust internship programme that bridges the gap between classroom theory and professional practice. Students have previously secured placements with the Oregon Congressional Delegation, the Governor’s Office, and various non-profit organisations, gaining vital experience in the legislative process and political campaigning.

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, allowing students to specialise in fields that align with their career goals. The Bachelor of Science track specifically includes a focus on political research and analysis.

Modules may include:

American Politics
Comparative Politics
International Relations
Political Theory
Legislative Process
State and Local Politics
International Development
Public Service
Political Research

Careers with Political Science

Graduates are equipped with versatile skills in problem-solving, research, and communication that are highly sought after by employers in various sectors. The programme prepares students for leadership roles in government, business, and social services.

Common career paths for graduates include:

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

Many alumni also find success as elected officials or within political campaign staff, utilising the networking opportunities and practical experience gained during their studies at the university.

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

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

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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 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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