Overview

The Political Science programme at Columbia University provides students with a sophisticated understanding of political institutions, processes, and behaviour across domestic and international contexts. By integrating theoretical frameworks with empirical research, the curriculum prepares undergraduates to analyse the complexities of modern governance and power dynamics. Students benefit from a diverse academic environment that emphasises critical thinking, methodological rigour, and substantive knowledge of global political systems.

Why Political Science at Columbia University?

Studying at this world-renowned institution grants students access to a distinguished faculty of leading scholars and practitioners. The department is particularly noted for its strength in four primary subfields: American politics, comparative politics, international relations, and political theory. Students have the unique opportunity to engage in high-level undergraduate research through intensive seminars and the prestigious honours thesis programme. Furthermore, the university's location in New York City provides an unparalleled backdrop for observing global political and economic processes firsthand.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 70170 per year
National fee: USD 70170 per year
Local fee: USD 70170 per year

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

Syllabus

The curriculum is designed to provide both breadth and depth, requiring students to select primary and secondary subfields for specialised study. Modules may include:

American Politics
Comparative Politics
International Politics
Political Theory
Judicial Politics
American Urban Politics
Logic of Collective Choice
Racial and Ethnic Politics
National & Contemporary World Politics

Careers with Political Science

Graduates of this programme are well-equipped for diverse professional paths and advanced academic study. The analytical and research skills developed during the degree are highly valued in sectors such as public policy, international affairs, and governmental administration. Many alumni pursue careers in law, journalism, and non-governmental organisations, or continue their education in top-tier master's and doctoral programmes. The department provides dedicated advising resources to help students navigate internships and post-graduation plans in various public service and private sector roles.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

American Politics

Comparative Politics

International Relations

Political Theory

Empirical Research Methods in Political Science

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-08 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-01-01 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

135

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TOEFL^® IBT

105

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

7.5

Prepare for Your English Test

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Manhattan, United States

Disciplines

Political Science View 1416 other Bachelors in Political Science in United States

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

135

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

105

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

7.5

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

Autobiographical information

Lists and descriptions of a student’s achievements, activities, employment and summer activities

Personal essay

An official high school transcript from all high schools attended

One high school counselor’s recommendation and school profile

The completed Mid-Year Report

SAT or ACT

Applicants may self-report their scores

English proficiency examination score (if necessary)

These recommendations must come from teachers who taught you in academic disciplines

For engineering applicants, one must come from a math or science teacher

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

70170 USD / year

≈ 70170 USD / year
Out-of-State

70170 USD / year

≈ 70170 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

70170 USD / year

≈ 70170 USD / year

Living costs

Manhattan

United States

2638 - 5751 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

Manhattan

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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