Overview

The Political Science and Public Service programme at University of California, Riverside offers a rigorous academic foundation for students interested in the intersection of governance and community action. This curriculum focuses on the analysis of political institutions and the practical application of policy within various cultural and national contexts. Students explore the complexities of political behaviour and the essential values that drive societal change.

By choosing this specific track, learners engage with the fundamental processes that shape modern administration and public life. The course is designed to foster critical thinking regarding national security, international affairs, and the pursuit of justice.

Why Political Science and Public Service at University of California, Riverside?

University of California, Riverside provides a distinctive environment for studying political systems through its dedicated Department of Political Science. The institution stands out for its focus on diverse national contexts, allowing students to analyse political phenomena from multiple perspectives. This programme is specifically tailored for those who wish to combine theoretical political knowledge with a practical public service orientation.

The department offers a supportive academic community where students can participate in specialised activities such as Moot Court or the Honor Society. These opportunities enhance the learning experience by providing practical venues to apply classroom theories. The university's commitment to research and its comprehensive library resources ensure that undergraduates have access to the tools necessary for high-level academic inquiry.

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
Political Institutions
Political Behaviour
Political Values
National Security
International Affairs
Justice
Political Change and Stability

Careers with Political Science and Public Service

Graduates of this programme are well-equipped for professional roles across a broad spectrum of industries. Many alumni pursue successful careers in government service, where they apply their understanding of administrative processes to public policy and community leadership. The analytical skills developed during the course are also highly valued in the legal profession and judicial systems.

Beyond the public sector, the degree prepares students for opportunities in journalism, education, and international business. The ability to interpret complex political data and understand global trends makes graduates competitive candidates for roles in non-governmental organisations and private consultancy. Many students also use this bachelor degree as a stepping stone for advanced graduate studies in law or political science.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

American Politics

Political Ideologies

Political Theory

Public Policy: Values, Conflict, & Politics

Administrative Politics & Theory

The Politics of India and Pakistan

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

Public Policy Political Science View 321 other Bachelors in Public Policy 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 and Public Service.

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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