Political science gives you the power to answer fundamental questions that go to the heart of the human experience while encouraging independent thought, respect, and interest in current affairs.
You’ll study critical issues such as war and peace, social justice, international affairs, environmental challenges, poverty and racism, and the struggles of oppressed peoples. With a degree in political science, you'll be prepared to become a leader in your community as legislative aids, policy advisors, campaign managers, nonprofit leaders, educators, public relations specialists, consultants, lobbyists, or go on to pre-law.
Meet your moment and join nationally known programs in indigenous politics, international human rights, and inner-city community development. You’ll explore timely and hot-button issues at home with local and state politics or go further to have an international impact with our popular Middle Eastern Studies and study abroad programs in Germany, China, and South Korea.
You’ll find ample opportunity to explore innovative community engagement programs while receiving real-world, hands-on experience in a variety of professional and community settings. Our small class sizes connect you with high-quality mentorship from exceptional faculty who prepare you for informed and creative activism. With these newfound opportunities, you’ll make an impact that can change power structures and pursue the common good.
Make Connections
Forming connections within the Political Science Department is important for your academic and professional development. Pi Sigma Alpha is the National Honor Society for Political Science, and provides a great deal of professional development opportunities for students. Connections formed in Pi Sigma Alpha extend beyond the classroom, allowing for cooperation and networking with classmates, teachers, and advisors.
Studying political science offers a thorough understanding of governmental structures, political leadership, and public policy. It helps you develop critical thinking abilities required to analyze complicated political situations and understand motivation behind political decisions and actions.
Political science is about curiosity. We explore what we don't know about political institutions and ideologies, and challenge our thinking to develop broader perspectives. You'll learn how to use scientific methods to investigate political events, allowing you to add new insights and perspectives to the field.
The Political Science Department creates diversity and invites students from various backgrounds to attend and study in our program. We recognize the importance of differing view points, and the value of engaging in dialogue when view points differ. This dialogue generates well-rounded students able to address the interests and concerns of many communities.
Our undergraduate advisor, Bassem Hassan, is available to help students navigate their academic and career options in the subjects of political science. Whether you're looking for advice on course options, internship possibilities, or graduate school preparation, our advisor is here to help you on your journey at CU Denver.
Inclusion is our value
CU Denver is home to one of the most diverse student populations in Colorado.
- Join your choice of 100+ student groups and organizations which support your identity and interests
- Your department and faculty are committed to the pursuit of equity and inclusion in the classroom, lab, and beyond
- Learn more at our Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Find your people
Campus can feel like a huge place. We help you find your people by offering the experience of a more traditional, small liberal arts program—for a fraction of the cost. We offer a variety of clubs and networking opportunities.
See Your Future
Learning to think critically about my own political assumptions and receiving support for political and civic engagement forever enriched my life.
—Stephen Polk
Assistant Professor, Naropa, 2008