B.F.A. in Architectural Design
James Madison University, located in Harrisonburg, Virginia, is renowned for its commit...
B.A. in Political Science
Harrisonburg, Virginia
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
James Madison University (JMU) offers a dynamic Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Political Science program designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of political systems, processes, and institutions. This program equips students with analytical, critical thinking, and communication skills essential for careers in politics, government, law, international relations, and public service. With a focus on both theory and practice, the B.A. in Political Science program at JMU prepares students to navigate complex political landscapes and contribute to positive change in their communities and the world.
Curriculum: The curriculum of JMU's B.A. in Political Science program is designed to cover a wide range of topics relevant to the study of politics and government. Courses may include political theory, comparative politics, international relations, American government, public policy analysis, research methods, and constitutional law. Students also have the opportunity to choose elective courses based on their interests, such as environmental politics, human rights, political communication, or public administration.
Research Focus: JMU's B.A. in Political Science program emphasizes research skills development to empower students to critically analyze political phenomena, conduct empirical research, and contribute to scholarly discourse. Through research-focused coursework, independent studies, and faculty-guided research projects, students learn how to formulate research questions, collect and analyze data, and communicate research findings effectively. This research focus prepares students for graduate studies and careers that require strong analytical and research skills.
Industry Engagement: JMU fosters strong connections between the B.A. in Political Science program and various industries where political knowledge and expertise are valued. Students have opportunities for internships, externships, and experiential learning experiences in government agencies, non-profit organizations, advocacy groups, political campaigns, and law firms. These industry engagements provide students with practical experience, networking opportunities, and insights into potential career paths in politics, law, public policy, and international affairs.
Global Perspective: In today's interconnected world, understanding global political dynamics and international relations is essential for political science professionals. JMU's B.A. in Political Science program integrates a global perspective into its curriculum by examining international political systems, diplomacy, global governance, and contemporary global issues. Students have opportunities to study abroad, participate in Model United Nations simulations, engage with international scholars, and explore global political challenges through coursework and experiential learning activities.
Location
Harrisonburg, Virginia
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 30152
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Requirements: Prospective undergraduate students are required to have a minimum academic achievement of 80% or above in their previous educational qualifications.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS Requirement: An overall IELTS score of 6.5 is required.
- TOEFL Requirement: A minimum overall score of 80 is often required.
- PTE Requirement: A minimum overall score of 58 is often required.
- DET Requirement: A DET score of 105 is required.
- SAT Requirement: A SAT score of 500 is required.
Students must provide:
- academic marksheets & transcripts
- letters of recommendation
- a personal statement - SOP
- passport
- other supporting documents as required by the university.
It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.
James Madison University (JMU) recognizes the importance of supporting international students in their pursuit of higher education and offers various scholarship opportunities to facilitate their academic journey.
International Undergraduate Merit Scholarships: JMU provides merit-based scholarships for outstanding international undergraduate students. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievements, leadership qualities, and extracurricular involvement. Eligible students are automatically considered during the admission process.
International Diversity Scholarships: To promote cultural diversity on campus, JMU offers International Diversity Scholarships. These scholarships aim to attract students from different backgrounds, fostering a global perspective within the university community. Eligibility criteria include a demonstrated diversity and inclusion.
College-Specific Scholarships: Various colleges within JMU may offer scholarships tailored to specific academic disciplines. International students pursuing degrees in fields such as business, science, engineering, or the arts may have access to college-specific scholarship opportunities.
Global Engagement Scholarships: JMU encourages international students to actively engage with the global community. Global Engagement Scholarships are awarded to students who demonstrate a promoting cross-cultural understanding through activities such as international events, community service, and leadership roles.
Graduates of James Madison University's Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Political Science program have a wide range of career opportunities available to them.
Policy Analyst: Graduates can pursue careers as policy analysts, working for government agencies, think tanks, or research institutions. They analyze public policies, evaluate their impact, and provide recommendations to policymakers on issues such as healthcare, education, environmental regulation, and social welfare.
Legislative Assistant: Graduates may work as legislative assistants for elected officials at the local, state, or federal level. They research legislative proposals, draft policy briefs, prepare speeches and testimony, and liaise with constituents and interest groups to inform policymaking decisions.
Government Affairs Specialist: Graduates can pursue careers in government affairs, advocating for the interests of corporations, non-profit organizations, or advocacy groups. They monitor legislative developments, build relationships with policymakers, and influence public policy decisions through lobbying, grassroots organizing, and coalition-building efforts.
Campaign Manager: Graduates with an interest in electoral politics can work as campaign managers for political candidates or parties. They oversee campaign operations, develop campaign strategies, manage staff and volunteers, coordinate fundraising efforts, and engage with voters to mobilize support and win elections.
Public Relations Specialist: Graduates may work as public relations specialists for government agencies, political organizations, or advocacy groups. They develop communication strategies, craft messages, manage media relations, and shape public perception of political issues and candidates.
International Relations Specialist: Graduates interested in global affairs can pursue careers in international relations, working for government agencies, international organizations, or multinational corporations. They analyze geopolitical trends, negotiate treaties and agreements, and promote diplomacy and cooperation on international issues such as peace and security, human rights, and economic development.
Attorney/Legal Advisor: Graduates with a B.A. in Political Science can pursue careers in law by attending law school and becoming attorneys or legal advisors. They may specialize in areas such as constitutional law, administrative law, international law, or public interest law, representing clients in legal proceedings or providing legal advice on regulatory compliance and policy matters.
Non-profit Manager: Graduates can work as non-profit managers or directors for organizations that focus on social justice, advocacy, or community development. They oversee program operations, manage fundraising and grant-writing efforts, and advocate for policy change on issues such as civil rights, environmental protection, or poverty alleviation.
