The University of Massachusetts Amherst (UMass Amherst) is a prestigious public research university that offers a comprehensive and rigorous undergraduate degree program in Political Science. Located in the heart of the Pioneer Valley, UMass Amherst provides students with a unique blend of academic excellence, research opportunities, and real-world experiences that prepare them for successful careers in politics, government, law, and other related fields. With a strong faculty-to-student ratio and a diverse range of course offerings, the Department of Political Science at UMass Amherst is an ideal choice for students seeking a well-rounded education in political science.
Academic Excellence and Research Opportunities
The Department of Political Science at UMass Amherst is home to a distinguished faculty of scholars who are renowned for their research and teaching expertise. The department offers a wide range of undergraduate courses that cover various subfields of political science, including American politics, comparative politics, international relations, political theory, and public policy. Students can choose from over 40 courses, including introductory surveys, advanced seminars, and specialized courses that focus on topics such as elections, political parties, interest groups, and human rights. The department also offers a variety of research opportunities, including undergraduate research assistantships, honors theses, and independent study projects, which allow students to work closely with faculty members and develop their research skills.
Faculty Expertise and Specializations
The faculty in the Department of Political Science at UMass Amherst are experts in their respective fields and have published numerous books, articles, and research papers on a wide range of topics. Some of the faculty specializations include American politics, with a focus on elections, political parties, and interest groups; comparative politics, with a focus on democratization, authoritarianism, and political economy; and international relations, with a focus on global governance, human rights, and international security. The faculty also have a strong commitment to teaching and mentoring, and many have received awards for their teaching excellence and dedication to undergraduate education.
| Faculty Specialization | Course Offerings |
|---|---|
| American Politics | Introduction to American Politics, American Political Parties, Interest Groups and Lobbying |
| Comparative Politics | Introduction to Comparative Politics, Democratization and Authoritarianism, Political Economy of Development |
| International Relations | Introduction to International Relations, Global Governance, Human Rights and International Law |
Career Opportunities and Alumni Network
Graduates of the undergraduate political science program at UMass Amherst have gone on to pursue successful careers in a wide range of fields, including politics, government, law, journalism, and non-profit management. The department has a strong alumni network that provides students with opportunities for networking, mentorship, and career advancement. Many alumni have gone on to work in prominent organizations such as the U.S. Congress, the White House, the State Department, and non-profit organizations such as the American Civil Liberties Union and the National Democratic Institute.
Career Paths and Salary Ranges
Some of the common career paths for graduates of the undergraduate political science program at UMass Amherst include policy analyst, with a median salary range of 60,000-80,000; legislative aide, with a median salary range of 40,000-60,000; and non-profit professional, with a median salary range of 50,000-70,000. The department also offers a variety of resources and support services to help students prepare for graduate school and law school, including LSAT preparation courses and graduate school advising.
- Policymakers and analysts in government agencies and non-profit organizations
- Legislative aides and staff members in Congress and state legislatures
- Journalists and reporters covering politics and government
- Lawyers and advocates in private practice and public interest law firms
- International development professionals working in NGOs and government agencies
What are the admission requirements for the undergraduate political science program at UMass Amherst?
+The admission requirements for the undergraduate political science program at UMass Amherst include a minimum GPA of 3.0, completion of high school courses in social science and English, and submission of SAT or ACT scores. The department also recommends that applicants take advanced courses in social science, history, and English, and that they participate in extracurricular activities such as debate, model UN, and volunteer work.
What are the career opportunities for graduates of the undergraduate political science program at UMass Amherst?
+Graduates of the undergraduate political science program at UMass Amherst have gone on to pursue successful careers in a wide range of fields, including politics, government, law, journalism, and non-profit management. The department has a strong alumni network that provides students with opportunities for networking, mentorship, and career advancement.
What are the research opportunities available to undergraduate students in the Department of Political Science at UMass Amherst?
+The Department of Political Science at UMass Amherst offers a variety of research opportunities to undergraduate students, including undergraduate research assistantships, honors theses, and independent study projects. Students can work closely with faculty members on research projects, present their research at conferences, and publish their work in academic journals.
