How do I ...

• declare the major or minor?
  
  
• declare a double, combined or special major?
  
  
• get or change a major adviser?
  
  
• fulfill the requirements?
  
  
• learn about grants and awards?
  
  
• get study-abroad approval and credit?
  
  
• get transfer credit?
  
  
• get summer school approval and credit?
  
  
• get Advanced Placement credit?
  
  
• get credit for an internship?
  
  
• do an independent study project?
  
  
• get into a colloquium?
  
  
• get into a senior seminar?
  
  
• get a recommendation for graduate school or a job?

PROGRAM INFORMATION

• Advisers
  
• Awards and Honors
  
• Course Approval Request
  
• Credit

• Degree Requirements for Political Science
  

• General Education Requirements
  (Note: this Provost Office page will open in its own window. In order to return to this page, simply close the new window.)
  
• Honor Code
  (Note: this Dean of Studies page will open in its own window. In order to return to this page, simply close the new window.)
  
• Majoring in Political Science
  
• Progress Report [in PDF]
  Use this form to track your courses for the Political Science major.
  
• Studying Abroad
  
• Types of majors

• Colloquia:
  
  Schedules and Application Form

  Senior Research Seminars:
  

  Schedule and Application Form
  

  Requirements and Due Dates

  Explanation of "Y" grades

The purpose of the study of political science is to develop understanding of the basic political institutions and processes in human society. This understanding involves analysis and evaluation of political systems and public policies in the context of the challenges they face and the changes they undergo. The major is designed to equip you to play an effective role as citizen in a democratic political order, to participate more actively in political life as public or party official, civil servant, lawyer, or political commentator, or to undertake graduate training in political science in preparation for a career in college teaching. If you are interested in a public service career, please inquire about the two five-year joint-degree programs at Columbia University's School of International and Public Affairs (SIPA): the Graduate Program in Public Policy and Administration (MPA) and the Masters of International Affairs Program (MIA).