Overview

The Political Science programme at the University of California, Riverside offers students a profound understanding of the fundamental political processes and institutions that shape national and cultural contexts. This curriculum focuses on the analysis of political behaviour, justice, national security, and international affairs to provide a robust academic foundation. Students engage with the complexities of political change and stability while developing critical thinking skills necessary for evaluating global political values.

The department provides a versatile educational environment where learners can pursue a general track or choose to specialise in interdisciplinary areas. These pathways allow for the integration of administrative studies, law and society, or public service into the core curriculum.

Why Political Science at the University of California, Riverside?

The University of California, Riverside provides a distinctive environment for studying politics by offering five specialised major tracks. Students can tailor their education to match specific interests, such as International Affairs or Law and Society, ensuring a personalised academic experience. The institution emphasises a multi-contextual approach, examining how political systems operate across different cultures and nations, which prepares students for a globalised workforce.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 52536 per year
National fee: USD 52536 per year
Local fee: USD 14934 per year

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

Syllabus

Modules may include:

Political Science
International Affairs
Public Service
Administrative Studies
Law and Society
Political Behaviour
National Security
Political Systems
Justice

Careers with Political Science

Graduates of this programme are prepared for a wide range of professional opportunities across multiple sectors. The analytical and research skills gained during the course are highly valued in government service, where alumni contribute to policy development and public administration. Many students also pursue successful careers in law, utilising their understanding of legal systems and societal structures.

Beyond the public sector, the degree provides a strong foundation for roles in journalism and business, where political literacy and communication skills are essential. Education is another common pathway, with graduates entering teaching or academic research. The diverse training ensures that students can transition into various industries that require a deep understanding of institutional operations and international dynamics.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Political Ideologies

American Politics

Comparative Politics

Politics of the Underdeveloped World

World Politics

Presidential Politics

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-24 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-11-30 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2026-12-01 00:00:00 , National

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

115

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TOEFL^® IBT

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Riverside, United States

Disciplines

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

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Academic requirements

GPA

You must have a GPA of 3.0 or better (3.4 for nonresidents) in the A-G courses, with no grade below a C.

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 will need your:

Test scores

Annual income (optional)

Social Security number (if you have one)

Citizenship status

Statewide student ID (optional)

Credit card (or check)

Order Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) and International English Language Testing System (IELTS) to be sent.

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

52536 USD / year

≈ 52536 USD / year
Out-of-State

52536 USD / year

≈ 52536 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

14934 USD / year

≈ 14934 USD / year

Living costs

Riverside

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

Riverside

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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