A Passion For Politics
We are all political, and we all participate in politics—often unknowingly. Politics affects virtually every aspect of our lives, including education, jobs, housing, marriage, health care and the environment.
Understanding the nature of the institutions that structure your life is essential to making informed decisions and to participate and engage in a global society.
Through the study of political science, you will discover how political power is distributed, how different governments operate and interact, how societies are structured, and how laws are created and enforced. This knowledge and understanding is valuable for all citizens—and it’s essential for many careers today.
What is Political Science?
The study of political science helps explain the world of politics that surround all of us. In today’s rapidly changing and interconnected world—where what happens in China or the United Kingdom can affect what happens in the U.S.—a deeper understanding of political systems, events and policies is crucial.
As political beings, we all have a stake in political activities and ideas that shape our lives, and understanding these enables us to be participants—not just observers.
Student Opportunities
Political science students at Elmhurst University have the nation and the world as their laboratory, discussing topics such as American government and politics, world political systems, public policy, and law frame discussion and debate.
Participation in co-curricular opportunities like the Washington or Chicago Semesters, internships, Model U.N. and Mock Trial supplement classroom discussion of politics.
After Graduation
Elmhurst’s political science alumni go on to rewarding careers or further education.
They work in the public, private, and not-for-profit sectors. Alumni become active participants in the political process, whether as citizens, or in the legislative, executive, or judicial branches. Many go to law school, earning a J.D., or graduate school to earn a master’s degree or Ph.D. in political science or public administration.