Department of Political ScienceAcademics
About the Department
Educating Leaders, Activists, and Informed Citizens
The Political Science Department at Gustavus Adolphus College helps you develop an understanding of political processes and government institutions so you are prepared to participate in what's happening in your local community, or on the other side of the world, as a leader, activist, and informed citizen. Plus, the skills you'll learn in your Political Science classes—writing, research, critical thinking, creative problem-solving, and the ability to collaborate with others—are exactly what employers are looking for.
From the Gustavus Hill to Capitol Hill
As a Political Science student at Gustavus, you're part of a community of motivated students, award-winning faculty, and alums eager to help you grow. Located in beautiful Saint Peter, MN, the county seat, the Gustavus Adolphus campus gives you a fun and supportive place to study with proximity to big-city activities and internships. You're minutes away from the medium-sized city of Mankato and an hour from the dynamic Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul. From here, you can pursue research, internships, or studying in Washington, D.C. or internationally.
Discover your path:
Majors, Minors, and Related Programs
Students in the Department may pursue a major or minor in Political Science or an honors major in Political Science with opportunities to specialize in topics ranging from international relations to local government to law. The faculty has a long history of working closely with students to help connect coursework to career goals in politics and law, graduate studies, business, nonprofit advocacy, and more.
Related Programs
Flexibility to Pursue More than One Interest
The Gustavus Political Science program is flexible and a launching pad directly into a meaningful career or the best graduate and law schools. If you are focused on a specific area of politics, you can customize your course selection around your interests. Plus, you can complement your studies with a double major or minor in another discipline such as Environmental Studies; African/African Diaspora Studies; Peace, Justice, and Conflict Studies; or Gender, Women, and Sexuality Studies.
Opportunities in Political Science
Build Strong Relationships, Skills, and Connections
Students from the Political Science Department are some of the most active on campus, from student government and political organizing to leading student clubs and volunteering. You are encouraged to expand your learning both on and off campus.
Explore Opportunities in Political Science
- Internships — Earn credit and gain experience working onsite in local, national, and even international government, law, or political organizations.
- Student Clubs — Take action now, build relationships, and develop skills you'll need for the future
- Study Away — From the Washington Internship Institute to international study abroad, Gustavus Political Science students have a wealth of opportunity to grow off campus
- Research — Contribute to faculty research to build your skill set, pursue an area of interest, and improve your resume
- Alumni Network — Benefit from the strong relationship Gusties have with their alma mater by accessing career and internship opportunities they provide to students in our Department
- Christenson Lecture — A bi-annual campus event, this lecture series brings in thought leaders in politics and law to discuss contemporary issues
Gusties
will
Shine
Meet the students and faculty in Gustavus's Political Science Department! They are inquisitive, active, and engaged in the classroom and their communities. Learn more about their unique paths and how they make a difference as academics, professionals, and citizens.
Regina Olono Vidales ’22
Political Science Major
“From zero public speaking experience to the commencement podium, serving on Student Senate changed the trajectory of Vidales’ life: I Found a Voice.” “If you don’t speak up for what you want, it’s not going to happen. So you have to speak up for the things that you care about.” When Vidales started at Gustavus, […]
Keep in Touch with the Department of Political Science
The Political Science Department equips you for your future through intellectual challenge, mentorship, and experiential learning. In addition, you can be involved across campus in fine arts, athletics, student government, and student clubs. You can make a positive difference as a globally minded, informed citizen.
Contact Political Science
Email: politicalscience@gustavus.eduPhone: 507-933-7550
Old Main, 202A
800 West College Avenue
Saint Peter, MN 56082