B.A. in Political Science

Entry Requirements for International Students

1. Academic Requirements: Prospective undergraduate students are required to demonstrate a strong academic background. The University of Arizona looks for a percentage ranging from 60% to 70% in the students' previous academic records. 

2. English Language Proficiency: 

   • IELTS (International English Language Testing System): A minimum overall score of 6.5 is required, with no individual band score falling below 6.
      
   • TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): Applicants should achieve a minimum overall score of 79 on the TOEFL iBT (Internet-based Test).
      
   • PTE (Pearson Test of English): The university requires a minimum overall score of 53 in the PTE Academic.
      
   • DET (Duolingo English Test): Prospective students must attain a minimum overall score of 105 in the Duolingo English Test.

The University of Arizona offers a range of scholarships and financial aid opportunities for international students to support their academic journey. These scholarships are designed to recognize and reward outstanding academic achievements, leadership potential, and diverse backgrounds. 

1. Global Wildcat Scholarship: The Global Wildcat Scholarship is a merit-based scholarship available to incoming international undergraduate students. It provides partial tuition waivers for up to four years of study. Selection is based on academic excellence, leadership qualities, and contributions to the community.

2. International Tuition Awards: The International Tuition Awards are merit-based scholarships offered to international undergraduate and graduate students. These awards provide partial tuition waivers and are renewable for multiple years. Eligibility is based on academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, and potential to contribute to the university community.

3. International Student Tuition Discount: The University of Arizona offers a tuition discount to international students from select countries. The discount reduces the out-of-state tuition rate to a more affordable level, making it more accessible for international students to pursue their education at the university.

4. Graduate College Fellowships: The Graduate College at the University of Arizona offers several fellowship programs for international graduate students. These fellowships provide financial support for tuition and living expenses. The eligibility criteria and award amounts vary depending on the specific fellowship program.

5. College-Specific Scholarships: Various colleges and departments within the University of Arizona offer scholarships specifically tailored to international students in their respective fields of study. These scholarships may be based on academic achievement, research interests, or professional goals. Students can inquire with their specific college or department for available scholarship opportunities.

6. External Scholarships: The University of Arizona encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities. There are numerous scholarships provided by organizations, governments, and foundations that international students can apply for. The university's scholarship office can provide guidance and resources to help students identify and apply for external scholarships.

It is important for international students to note that scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines may vary. 

A B.A. in Political Science from the University of Arizona opens doors to a diverse range of impactful career paths. Graduates are well-prepared to navigate the complexities of the political landscape, whether shaping policies, influencing public opinion, or contributing to social change. The program's emphasis on critical thinking, research skills, and practical experience equips graduates for success in various sectors where a nuanced understanding of politics is invaluable.

1. Public Policy Analyst: Graduates can pursue careers as public policy analysts, working for government agencies, think tanks, or research institutions. They analyze policies, assess their impact, and contribute to the development of effective public policies at local, state, or national levels.

2. Political Consultant: With a deep understanding of political processes, graduates can become political consultants, offering strategic advice to candidates, parties, or advocacy groups. They may work on political campaigns, providing insights into messaging, voter outreach, and campaign strategy.

3. Government Affairs Specialist: Graduates may choose careers as government affairs specialists, representing organizations in their interactions with government entities. They monitor legislative developments, advocate for policy positions, and navigate the regulatory landscape on behalf of businesses, nonprofits, or interest groups.

4. International Relations Specialist: Those interested in global affairs can pursue roles as international relations specialists. They may work for diplomatic missions, international organizations, or NGOs, contributing to diplomatic efforts, conflict resolution, or global development initiatives.

5. Legislative Assistant: Graduates can work as legislative assistants, supporting elected officials in their legislative duties. They research policy issues, draft legislation, and assist with constituent communication, playing a crucial role in the legislative process.

6. Political Journalist: With strong communication skills and a keen understanding of politics, graduates can enter the field of political journalism. They may work for newspapers, online publications, or broadcast media, reporting on political events, conducting interviews, and analyzing policy developments.

7. Nonprofit Advocacy: Graduates can contribute to social change by working in nonprofit organizations focused on advocacy. They may address issues such as human rights, environmental conservation, or social justice, playing a key role in advancing organizational missions.

8. Intelligence Analyst: Those interested in national security and intelligence can pursue careers as intelligence analysts. They may work for government agencies, analyzing information to assess security threats, inform policymakers, and contribute to national security efforts.

9. Corporate Social Responsibility Manager: Graduates can work in corporate social responsibility, ensuring that organizations operate ethically and contribute positively to society. They may develop and implement initiatives related to sustainability, community engagement, and ethical business practices.

10. Community Organizer: Graduates committed to grassroots advocacy and community empowerment can become community organizers. They work with local communities to address social issues, mobilize support, and advocate for positive change at the community level.

11. Political Science Educator: Some graduates choose to enter the field of education, becoming political science educators. They may teach at high schools, colleges, or universities, inspiring the next generation with a deep understanding of political systems and processes.

12. Legal Assistant/Paralegal: Graduates may work in legal settings as legal assistants or paralegals. Their knowledge of political systems and law equips them to support attorneys in legal research, document preparation, and case management.