College of Arts & Sciences Political Science

Political Science Home

Education for Today's Leaders 

The Department of Political Science at The U is among the most nationally prominent programs in the country.  We take pride not only in our high national ranking and our award-winning faculty, but also in the fact that our students frequently earn some of the nation's most prestigious scholarships for continued studies. 

Our approach to education is distinguished by close faculty mentoring, a challenging program of study, practical experience and sponsorship of numerous seminars, lectures and conferences. We're large enough to provide diversity in course offerings and viewpoints, but small enough to provide excellent opportunities to become acquainted with faculty members and fellow students. 

We have two primary goals:
  1. preparing students for careers in law, politics, government, and the mass media, as well as for public-related positions in the private sector, and; 
  2. preparing students for responsible citizenship, intelligent voting, and informed participation in public affairs.

We offer:

  • B.A. and B.S. in Political Science
  • Double major with Criminal Justice
  • M.A. in Political Science
  • M.P.A. (Master of Public Administration)
  • M.S.A.S. (Master of Science in Administrative Studies)
  • Ph.D. in Political Science (American Political Institutions/Public Policy and Administration) 

If you are looking for a career with leadership, public-related and high-profile opportunities, we encourage you to seriously consider the Department of Political Science at The University of South Dakota.  

William D. Richardson, Chair
Political Science
College of Arts and Sciences
Dakota Hall 103