B.S. in Political Science

Entry Requirements for Undergraduate programs

1. Academic Qualifications: International students applying for undergraduate programs at NAU are required to have a minimum academic achievement of 75% or above in their previous educational qualifications.

2. English Language Proficiency:

   • IELTS: Overall score of 6.5 with no individual band score less than 6.
   • TOEFL iBT: Overall score of 70 or higher.
   • DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 95.
   • PTE: Overall PTE score required is 56.

Score reporting is required.

To support their academic pursuits, NAU offers various scholarships and financial aid options. These scholarships recognize outstanding academic achievements, leadership qualities, and contributions to the community. International students are encouraged to explore the available scholarships to help ease the financial burden of studying in the United States. 

1. Global Achievement Award: This scholarship is available to incoming international undergraduate students and is based on academic merit. The Global Achievement Award provides partial tuition waivers, making quality education more affordable for deserving international students.

2. International Excellence Award: The International Excellence Award is a competitive scholarship available to outstanding international students who have demonstrated exceptional academic achievements. Recipients of this scholarship receive a substantial tuition reduction.

3. Into NAU Scholarships: Into NAU is a pathway program for international students, and it offers several merit-based scholarships for students entering NAU through the program. These scholarships recognize academic excellence and leadership potential.

4. Phi Theta Kappa Scholarship: This scholarship is available to transfer students who are members of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society. It offers financial assistance to eligible international transfer students pursuing their bachelor's degree at NAU.

5. Diversity Scholarships: NAU values diversity and offers several scholarships that promote inclusivity and support underrepresented international students. These scholarships aim to foster a diverse and inclusive campus community.

6. Athletic Scholarships: Talented student-athletes have the opportunity to receive athletic scholarships, which are awarded based on athletic performance, skills, and potential to contribute to NAU's athletic teams.

7. Departmental Scholarships: Various academic departments at NAU offer scholarships to international students based on specific academic achievements and majors. Students are encouraged to inquire with their respective departments for available opportunities.

8. Graduate Assistantships: International graduate students may have the chance to secure graduate assistantships, which provide financial support and valuable professional experience through research, teaching, or administrative roles.

9. External Scholarships: NAU encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities available through organizations, governments, and foundations that provide financial support for studying in the United States.

Application Process and Deadlines: Each scholarship has specific eligibility criteria, application requirements, and deadlines.

Graduates of the B.S. in Political Science program at Northern Arizona University have diverse career opportunities in government, law, international relations, nonprofit organizations, education, media, and beyond. Their analytical skills, research abilities, and understanding of political processes make them valuable contributors to various sectors, shaping policy, advocating for change, and promoting civic engagement and democracy.

1. Government and Public Service Careers: Graduates of the B.S. in Political Science program are well-suited for careers in government at the local, state, and federal levels. They can pursue roles such as legislative aides, policy analysts, political consultants, campaign managers, and public affairs specialists. Government agencies, legislative bodies, and executive offices often seek individuals with a strong understanding of political processes and public policy to help shape laws, regulations, and public programs.

2. Law and Legal Services: Many political science graduates choose to pursue careers in law. With a solid foundation in political theory, constitutional law, and legal analysis, graduates can pursue further education in law school and become attorneys specializing in areas such as civil rights, criminal justice, environmental law, or international law. Political science graduates may also work as paralegals, legal assistants, or legal researchers in law firms, corporations, nonprofit organizations, or government agencies.

3. International Relations and Diplomacy: The B.S. in Political Science program prepares students for careers in international relations and diplomacy. Graduates may work for government agencies, international organizations, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), or multinational corporations, focusing on issues such as global governance, conflict resolution, human rights, international development, and diplomacy. They may pursue roles as diplomats, foreign service officers, international affairs specialists, or global policy analysts.

4. Nonprofit and Advocacy Organizations: Political science graduates often find rewarding careers in nonprofit organizations and advocacy groups that work on social, environmental, and political issues. They may advocate for specific causes, conduct research and policy analysis, organize grassroots campaigns, or engage in community outreach and education. Career options include roles such as program coordinators, advocacy directors, community organizers, and policy researchers in organizations focused on civil rights, environmental conservation, social justice, and public health.

5. Education and Academia: Some graduates of the B.S. in Political Science program pursue careers in education and academia. They may work as high school civics or social studies teachers, college instructors, or academic researchers. With advanced degrees, they can pursue tenure-track faculty positions at colleges and universities, conducting research, publishing scholarly articles, and teaching courses in political science, public policy, or related fields.

6. Media and Journalism: Political science graduates with strong communication skills may pursue careers in media and journalism. They may work as political reporters, correspondents, editors, or analysts for newspapers, magazines, television networks, online media outlets, or radio stations. They play a vital role in informing the public about political developments, analyzing policy issues, and fostering informed civic engagement.