Political Science B.A / Minor
Study how power works, and learn to use it to make a difference.
Political science is the study of power in society, at the local, national, and international levels. At Manhattan University, you will learn to analyze political events and institutions, intern across New York City and beyond, and build the research, writing, and analytical skills that lead to careers in government, law, nonprofits, business, media, and education. Choose the B.A. or the minor, with a path toward law or graduate study.
This program is part of History, Political Science and International Studies
The Manhattan Advantage
Why Study Political Science at Manhattan University?
Studying political science prepares you to play a more effective role as a citizen of a democracy and of the world, and to better understand other people and their ideas. At Manhattan University, you will learn to analyze complex situations, solve problems, research issues, work collaboratively, and speak and write effectively. You will develop a real understanding of how political systems work and how to act effectively within them, graduating ready for careers in public service, politics, law, business, journalism, and education, or for graduate and professional study.
Degree Program Options
Choose Your Degree Path in Political Science
Political Science at Manhattan University is offered as a Bachelor of Arts and as a minor, with accelerated pathways for students who want to continue into law or business.
Bachelor of Arts in Political Science
The B.A. requires 30 credits (10 courses), including gateway courses in American government, comparative politics, research methods, global issues, and political theory; three upper-level courses; a senior seminar; and an elective or internship. Students choose courses across American government, international relations, comparative politics, and political theory.
Accelerated Pathways to Law and Business
Qualified students can pursue an accelerated law degree through the 3+3 partnership with St. John's University School of Law, or combine the major with a BA/MBA through the O'Malley School of Business.
Academics
Curriculum & Courses
The political science curriculum builds from gateway courses across the four fields of the discipline through upper-level study and an original senior research project. Course titles below are drawn from the Manhattan University academic catalog and shown in alphabetical order.
To view the whole curriculum, please visit Manhattan University's academic catalog.
- American Political Thought
- Comparative Politics
- Constitutional Law: Civil Liberties
- Constitutional Law: Governmental Powers
- Environmental Politics
- Global Issues
- Human Rights
- International Relations
- Introduction to Political Theory
- Model United Nations
- Power in the City
- Research Methods in Political Science
- The United States Congress
- The United States Presidency
- United States Government and Politics
- United States Parties, Public Opinion and Elections
- Wall Street
Minor in Political Science
A 15-credit sequence open to students in all schools, built from an introductory course, United States Government and Politics, one additional gateway course, and two more political science courses. It complements nearly any major.
Hands-On Opportunities
Political science majors use New York City as a political classroom. Our students intern with elected officials and agencies across the city, learning by doing in the offices where policy is made. Faculty and alumni open doors to outstanding placements, and students have interned at the White House, the offices of Senators Schumer and Gillibrand, the U.S. Attorney's Office, several District Attorney's offices, law firms, lobbying firms, and NGOs active at the United Nations.
Representative NYC placements:
- New York City Council
- State Assembly and State Senate
- MTA
- NYC Planning Department
- Parks Department
- Housing Department
- Law offices and District Attorney's offices
- Nonprofits advocating for housing, child care, women's rights, and the environment
Beyond New York City: You can earn university credit while interning in Washington, D.C. or Albany through our partnership programs, and our students have traveled internationally with programs to the Czech Republic, London, and the Galápagos Islands. Department-sponsored field trips to Washington, D.C., Albany, and Philadelphia let you meet elected officials and tour historic and political sites.
Model United Nations
The Political Science Department runs an award-winning Model United Nations program, offered as a spring class or as an extracurricular activity in the fall. Our team competes at the National Model UN Conference every spring and at a conference in Washington, D.C. or abroad each fall, where students simulate the work of the UN at the international level. The program is led by Dr. Pam Chasek, who has directed it since 1997 and received the Judy K. Eaton Service Award from the National Model UN organization.
As part of this hands-on experience, you will:
- Gain expertise on a country by representing its views throughout the conference
- Meet thousands of students from around the world in a collaborative setting
- Negotiate resolutions addressing regional conflicts, peacekeeping, human rights, the concerns of women and children, economic and social development, and the environment
Get Involved: Student clubs and organizations of particular interest to political science majors include:
- Student Government
- Leadership Development
- Model UN
- JustPeace
- St. Thomas More Law Society
- Pi Sigma Alpha Honor Society
Why Study in New York City
New York City is one of the world's richest settings for the study of human behavior. From hospitals, clinics, and schools to research institutions, social-service agencies, technology firms, and corporate offices, the city offers psychology students direct access to the full range of settings where psychological knowledge is applied. Manhattan University students pursue internships, field placements, and research opportunities across the city, gaining real-world experience that strengthens their skills and builds the professional network needed to launch a career or enter graduate study. Studying minutes from Manhattan, you learn psychology not only in the classroom but in one of the most dynamic human environments in the world.
Potential Careers
A psychology degree opens doors across many fields. Graduates are prepared to advance into graduate study in psychology or a related area, or to pursue careers that draw on strong analytical, research, and communication skills.
- Campaign Manager
- Diplomat or Foreign Service Officer
- Government Affairs Specialist
- Intelligence Analyst
- Journalist
- Lawyer
- Legislative Aide
- Lobbyist
- Nonprofit Program Manager
- Policy Analyst
- Political Scientist
- High School Teacher
- Public Relations Specialist
- Urban and Regional Planner
Meet Our Faculty
Our faculty are scholars and practitioners who bring deep expertise and extensive professional networks to the classroom. They mentor students through research, connect them with internships across New York City and beyond, and guide independent projects, including funded Jasper Summer Scholar research. Get to know the faculty who will teach and mentor you.
History, Political Science and International Studies Faculty
The Kakos School of Arts and Sciences
The Kakos School of Arts and Sciences is the largest of Manhattan University's three schools, offering 33 undergraduate majors, six graduate programs, and six combined degrees across the humanities, natural and social sciences, and professional fields. Grounded in the University's Lasallian Catholic mission and located near the heart of New York City, the School pairs rigorous academics with small classes, close faculty mentorship, and real-world experience throughout the five boroughs and beyond. With strong pre-law and pre-health advising and a focus on ethical, engaged scholarship, Kakos graduates leave prepared to lead, and the University ranks in the top 3% nationally for salary impact (Wall Street Journal, 2026), evidence of where that preparation leads.
Program Costs & Financial Aid
Manhattan University is committed to making a high-quality, career-focused education accessible and affordable. Through a combination of competitive tuition, robust financial aid, and our Jasper Guarantee, students and families can plan their education with confidence. The Jasper Guarantee locks your tuition rate for all four years—ensuring financial stability and eliminating unexpected increases as you work toward your degree.
More than 90% of Manhattan University students receive some form of financial assistance, including merit scholarships, grants, and need-based aid, significantly reducing the overall cost of attendance.
- View Tuition & Fees
- Explore Financial Aid
- Learn More About Scholarships
- Learn About the Jasper Guarantee
A Manhattan University education is an investment in your future, and we are dedicated to helping you access the resources that make it possible.
A Smarter Investment in Your Future
Jasper Guarantee
At Manhattan University, every undergraduate student is protected by the Jasper Guarantee, which locks your tuition rate for all four years, ensuring clarity, stability, and peace of mind as you plan your education. This promise reflects our commitment to affordability and to supporting students and families throughout their academic journey.
Admissions Information for Manhattan University
Start Your Journey in Psychology
Applying to Manhattan University is designed to be clear and accessible. Review the requirements below to take the next step toward your degree.
Requirements:
- Application & transcript
- SAT/ACT optional
- Personal statement
- Letter(s) of recommendation
Deadlines:
- Early Action: November 15
- Regular Decision: February 1
Admission and Application Process
International Students:
Support available for visas, documentation, and English-language assessments.
Prepare for the Real World
At Manhattan University, your education is built around who you are and where you want to go. Whether you’re ready to apply or just starting to explore, take the next step when you’re ready — we’re here to help.