Political Science (Public Policy Focus) George Washington University

Overview

The Political Science (Public Policy Focus) at George Washington University offers an intensive curriculum designed to develop the analytical skills necessary for solving complex public policy challenges. Students engage with leading experts to explore current events and the theoretical foundations of governance within a professional academic environment.

This degree emphasises the practical application of political theory through extensive research and writing requirements. Participants are encouraged to take advantage of the university's unique position in Washington, D.C., to secure influential internships at government agencies or on Capitol Hill.

Why Political Science (Public Policy Focus) at George Washington University?

The programme is distinguished by its location in the heart of the American political landscape, providing unparalleled access to policy-making institutions. Students learn from a faculty of renowned experts who bring real-world experience from the highest levels of government and international research into the classroom.

Facilities at the Columbian College of Arts and Sciences support advanced scholarly inquiry, including a required proseminar where students produce original research. The university also maintains strong partnerships that facilitate study abroad opportunities and professional placements, ensuring graduates possess a competitive edge in the global job market.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: USD 69780 per year
• National fee: USD 69780 per year
• Local fee: USD 69780 per year

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

Syllabus

The curriculum includes foundational prerequisites and advanced 2000-level political science courses. Modules may include:

• Comparative Politics
• American Politics and Government
• International Politics
• International Affairs
• State and Urban Politics
• State and Urban Policy Problems
• Judicial Politics
• American Presidency
• Executive Branch Politics
• Legislative Politics
• Political Parties and Interest Groups
• Science, Technology, and Politics
• Issues in Domestic Public Policy
• Poverty, Welfare, and Work
• Education Policy
• U.S. Foreign Policy
• Post-Soviet Foreign Policy
• Scope and Methods of Political Science
• Visualizing and Modeling Politics
• Economics
• Intermediate Microeconomic Theory
• Business and Economic Statistics
• Statistics in Social Science

Students also complete a policy-oriented proseminar and an advanced topics course during their final years. Additional social science electives are available to broaden the scope of the degree.

Careers with Political Science (Public Policy Focus)

Graduates are well-equipped to pursue diverse professional paths in research, public affairs, and direct policy implementation. The analytical rigour of the programme prepares students for roles within government departments, non-profit organisations, and private sector consultancy firms.

Many alumni choose to continue their academic journey by enrolling in prestigious law schools or pursuing graduate studies in public policy. The focus on scholarly writing and quantitative methods ensures that students are prepared for high-level careers in legal services, international relations, and public administration.