Political Science Degree (B.A.), International Studies, Interdisciplinary Option

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Empowering Future Leaders in Politics, Policy, and Global Affairs

Earn a versatile and globally focused political science degree with the Political Science, International Studies, Interdisciplinary, B.A. at Westfield State University. This program is designed for students interested in international relations, diplomacy, global development, and public policy. The curriculum blends core political science courses with specialized international studies coursework to build strong analytical, research, and communication skills. Students explore topics like American government, political theory, comparative criminal justice, international economics, and global cultural issues. With flexible elective options and a focus on global engagement, this international studies major prepares graduates for careers in government, law, nonprofit organizations, international business, and beyond. Internship opportunities are encouraged and can count toward the major, offering hands-on experience in real-world settings. Whether you're planning for graduate school or a global career, Westfield State’s Political Science and International Studies program provides the academic foundation and career readiness you need to thrive.

Program Highlights

  • Global focus through interdisciplinary coursework
  • Hands-on learning with internship opportunities
  • Explore world issues like justice, economics, and culture
  • Build skills in research, analysis, and communication

Become a Voice for Global Change

Take the next step—earn your degree in Political Science and International Studies.

Where Global Perspectives Meet Career-Ready Skills

  • Three students engaged in discussion while seated together in a classroom.

    Global Learning Through Interdisciplinary Study

    This program combines core political science education with courses in economics, history, sociology, and global studies to provide a well-rounded understanding of international systems and global issues. You’ll examine how politics, culture, and economics intersect on a global scale.

  • Faculty member speaking at a podium during a campus lecture with a group of attendees seated in chairs.

    Engage with Diverse Perspectives and Contemporary Issues

    The program encourages critical engagement with political theories and current global challenges such as climate change, social justice, and international security. Through dynamic coursework and discussions, students gain a deeper understanding of complex world affairs from multiple viewpoints.

  • Diplomat for the US Department of State, New England visits Westfield State University to talk to students about opportunities at the State Department.

    Internship Opportunities That Build Real-World Skills

    Students are encouraged to participate in internships with government agencies, nonprofit organizations, international institutions, or law offices. These hands-on experiences allow you to apply classroom knowledge to real-world settings and build a professional network.

Program Details

Learning Outcomes
  • Students will demonstrate critical political thinking, reading, writing and speaking skills.
  • Students will identify and articulate an ideological stance.
  • Students will demonstrate the ability to evaluate the qualitative and quantitative political research of others, and conduct their own political research.

What Can You Do With a Political Science Degree (B.A.), International Studies, Interdisciplinary Option?

A Bachelor of Arts in Political Science – International Studies, Interdisciplinary Option prepares graduates for careers and graduate programs that involve global awareness, cross-cultural competence, international relations, and policy analysis. Here's what you can do with it:

  • Foreign Service Officer
  • International NGO Coordinator
  • Policy Analyst
  • Legislative Aide
  • Program Officer
  • Peace Corps Volunteer
  • Global Communications Manager
  • International Student Advisor
  • Study Abroad Program Coordinator
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Ready to learn more?

Course Requirements

Requirements for the Political Science Major

39 total credits are required to fulfill this major's requirements, as defined below:

  • 12 credits of Political Science Core courses 
  • 12 credits within the chosen concentration
  • 15 credits of additional Political Science electives

Students pursuing the Interdisciplinary Options for  and  concentrations should expect to complete 18 credits within their concentration, and 9 credits of elective coursework.

Students transferring in coursework from other schools must complete a minimum of 18 credits in Political Science at Westfield State University.

The Department of Political Science encourages students to participate in internships. Students may apply up to 6 Internship credits toward the 39 credit major.

  • 3 of these Internship credits may be applied to the concentration.
  • Up to 3 of these Internship credits may be applied toward the 18-credit minor.

For details about Political Science Internship credits, please click here to view the department's Internship manual, or contact the department.

Required Major Core Courses (12 credits)

  • Required Major Courses
  • Students must select one of the following political theory courses:
  • (Additional theory courses may qualify with department chair approval)

Required Electives (9-15 credits)

Students must complete 15 credits of additional Political Science coursework.

Students pursuing the Interdisciplinary Options for  or  concentrations should expect to complete 9 credits in this area.

International Studies, Interdisciplinary Option Concentration (18 credits)

In addition to the four required courses under , choose two courses (6 credits) from the list below (other advanced language courses may be substituted with permission of the department chair.)

  •  Additional courses may count with department chair approval.
Additional Graduation Requirements

All students must meet the  and complete a general education or common core of studies, distributed among the different academic areas as detailed in  or .

Get Big School Features with Small School Advantages

We offer high-quality academics, unique learning opportunities, and a gorgeous campus—and we have small classes, accessible faculty, and one-on-one support. 

You'll join fellow motivated students ready to make the most of the college experience through active participation. Become part of a caring and committed community that understands and embraces the bridge between academic study and civic responsibility.

  • 92%+

    of faculty hold doctorates

  • 700+

    internship opportunities

  • Study abroad

    in 35+ countries 

Learn from Experienced Faculty in Small Classes

Students in Westfield State University’s political science major program are led by a group of accomplished faculty with diverse backgrounds in law, public administration, international relations, political theory, and more. Each faculty member is dedicated to keeping up to date with current trends in the discipline through active participation in professional development, publication, and conference attendance and presentations. And, with small class sizes, students in the Political Science BA program will be able to interact closely with and learn from these experienced faculty. 

Faculty directory 

Political science students smiling with faculty at an academic awards ceremony.

Earn Two Degrees in Less Time

Westfield State University offers an Early Entry Master of Public Administration, Policy, and Civic Engagement program for outstanding undergraduates. Earn your bachelor’s and master’s degrees in just 5 years! Enroll in graduate-level courses during your senior year, with 6 credits counting toward both degrees. Develop essential skills in Public Administration and choose from concentrations like Criminal Justice Administration, Nonprofit Management, and Public Management. Become a leader in government and non-profit organizations with an MPA from WSU.

The Political Science Department also offers pre-law advising for those interested in attending law school. One of our department’s faculty serves as advisor to Westfield States’ 3+3 program with UMass Law School. Once enrolled in this program, students may complete a BA and JD degrees in six years, instead of seven years needed when following a regular path of college and law school.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to submit SAT/ACT scores or an essay when I apply?

Westfield State University does not require an application essay, SAT and/or ACT scores, or letters of recommendation (except for special program admissions).   

All first-year applicants are reviewed for admission based on their high school record. First-year applicants must meet the established by the in order to qualify for admission to a state university. 

Learn more about the application process and admissions here.

How much does Westfield State University cost?

Westfield State University offers a comprehensive university experience at an affordable cost—with many options for financial aid. ¿Û¿Û´«Ã½ our Cost and Aid page to learn more. 

Will I receive academic support?

We’re invested in your success. Whether you need a little help adjusting to college, study strategies, tutoring, or disability services, the team at the Academic Achievement Department is ready to help. Our mission is to provide you with the tools to explore academic opportunities as well as to plot strategies for continued growth. 

Learn more about our student support services here.

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Political Science Degree (B.A.), International Studies, Interdisciplinary Option