Overview

The Political Science and International Affairs programme at the University of California, Riverside provides a sophisticated understanding of how political institutions and processes function across various cultural and national landscapes. This curriculum integrates the study of political systems with a focused analysis of international relations and global security. Students explore the complexities of political behaviour and the pursuit of justice within modern societies.

By choosing this path, learners examine the fundamental ideas that shape domestic and foreign policies. The academic framework encourages critical thinking regarding political stability, change, and the evolving nature of national security.

Why Political Science and International Affairs at the University of California, Riverside?

The University of California, Riverside offers a distinctive environment where students can tailor their studies to specific interests, such as administrative studies or law and society. The department focuses on providing a broad perspective on political phenomena, ensuring that students understand both theoretical frameworks and practical applications. This versatility allows for a personalised educational experience that aligns with individual career goals.

Furthermore, the institution supports a variety of academic initiatives, including moot court and honor societies, which enhance the learning experience beyond the classroom. These opportunities allow students to apply their knowledge in competitive and collaborative settings, fostering a deeper connection to the field of international affairs and political science.

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 Processes
International Affairs
Political Systems
National Security
Political Behaviour
Justice
Political Change and Stability
Political Values

Careers with Political Science and International Affairs

Graduates of this programme are prepared for a wide range of professional opportunities in several key sectors. Many alumni pursue successful careers in government service, where they contribute to policy development and public administration. The analytical skills gained during the course are also highly valued in the legal profession and within various non-governmental organisations.

In addition to public service, the degree provides a strong foundation for roles in journalism, education, and the private business sector. The ability to analyse complex political data and understand international trends makes graduates competitive candidates for positions involving global strategy and communications. This diverse career potential ensures that students can find meaningful employment in both domestic and international arenas.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Comparative Politics or Politics of the Underdeveloped World

World Politics

Conflict Resolution

International Relations

Political Religions and Religious Politics

African 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

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

Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Riverside, United States

Disciplines

International Relations International Development Political Science View 1418 other Bachelors in Political Science in United States

Join for free or log in to access our complete career info list.

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

Need help with your student visa?

Get Visa Support

Get personalized guidance from a certified VFS Global advisor and save 20% through Studyportals.

Avoid common visa mistakes and delays
Know exactly what documents you need
Get a clear checklist tailored to your situation

In order for us to give you accurate scholarship information, we ask that you please confirm a few details and create an account with us.

Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Political Science and International Affairs.

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

Our partners