Overview

The Political Science programme at University of California, Merced provides students with a rigorous social scientific framework to analyse complex global issues. This curriculum focuses on the study of elections, civil liberties, and international relations to prepare graduates for diverse professional environments. By examining political systems across different countries, students gain a deep understanding of how power and policy function in the modern world.

The department emphasises an innovative approach to learning, blending traditional political theory with contemporary social science methodologies. Students are encouraged to explore the nuances of democratization, conflict, and war through critical inquiry and evidence-based analysis.

Why Political Science at University of California, Merced?

Choosing this major at University of California, Merced allows students to benefit from an interdisciplinary approach that integrates various perspectives from the social sciences. The programme is housed within the School of Social Sciences, Humanities and Arts, providing a unique environment where innovative teaching methods are prioritised. This setting fosters a deep understanding of political dynamics and encourages students to think critically about the challenges facing 21st-century society.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 53656 per year
National fee: USD 53656 per year
Local fee: USD 16054 per year

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

Syllabus

Modules may include:

American Politics
Elections
Civil Liberties
International Relations
Conflict and War
Political Systems
Democratization

Careers with Political Science

Graduates of this programme are prepared for a wide range of professional roles in government, law, and international affairs. Many alumni pursue careers as policy analysts, legislative assistants, or foreign service officers. The analytical skills developed during the course are also highly valued in corporate sectors, particularly for roles involving government relations and strategic advisory.

The degree serves as a strong foundation for those interested in becoming activists, campaign operatives, or urban policy planners. Additionally, the curriculum provides the necessary academic background for students intending to pursue further education to become attorneys or CIA analysts. Graduates often find opportunities within congressional offices, committee staffs, and various non-governmental organisations.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

American Politics

Understanding Political Controversies

Controversies in American Politics

Comparative Politics

International Relations

Global Issues

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-01-19 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-07-31 00:00:00
Starting 2027-08-26 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

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Merced, United States

Disciplines

Political Science View 1417 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

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

Other requirements

General requirements

Secondary school certificate of completion

GPA of 3.4 or above

Completion of 15 yearlong academic courses with a 3.4 GPA: 2 years of history (in place of U.S. history, history of your country), 4 years of composition and literature in language in which you are instructed, 3 years (four years recommended) of college-preparatory mathematics that include the topics covered in elementary and advanced algebra and two- and three-dimensional geometry.* (Approved integrated math courses may be used to fulfill part or all of this requirement.), 2 years of laboratory science (biology, chemistry, and/or physics) OR 2 years of integrated science , 2 years of a second language , 1 yearlong course (or 2 semesters) of visual and performing arts

Applicants must demonstrate strong abilities in reading, writing, comprehension and verbal communication in the English language

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

53656 USD / year

≈ 53656 USD / year
Out-of-State

53656 USD / year

≈ 53656 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

16054 USD / year

≈ 16054 USD / year

Living costs

Merced

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.

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

Merced

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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