Explore political systems while gaining experience in real-world settings, with opportunities in the state’s seat of government just steps from campus. From preparing for a career in law, public administration or politics to mastering in-demand skills for a variety of roles, our program offers the benefits of faculty expertise and university resources.
Nationally Ranked
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Top 100
Political Science
USC’s Department of Political Science ranks among the nation’s top 100 programs for both undergraduate and graduate study.
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800+ / 100+
Undergraduate and Graduate Students
USC’s Political Science department includes more than 800 undergraduate majors and more than 100 graduate students.
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Academics
Courses in political theory, public policy and governance develop critical thinking and leadership skills.
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Research
Explore our six fields of inquiry: American politics, comparative politics, international relations, political theory, public law and quantitative research.
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Beyond the Classroom
Get hands-on experience that sets you apart through internships in state agencies, political campaigns, judicial bodies and global policymaking.
USC MPA
The Master of Public Administration program prepares you for careers in government, nonprofits and the private sector. You'll gain skills in policy analysis, budgeting and management while earning real experience in our state capital.
Explore the MPA programPolitical science provides a way to explore human behavior, the systems we create, and their effects on the world, incorporating aspects from anthropology, economics, history, law, sociology and psychology. At USC, we have faculty working in all major political science sub-fields, offering students a more comprehensive understanding of the discipline.
Department News
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Natalie Letsa brings global perspective to USC
Natalie Letsa offers expertise in African politics, authoritarianism and questions of justice and equity in her teaching and research.
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Expert on political comms and democracy
Katie Searles, an expert in political communication, joins USC’s Department of Political Science to share her research on media, democracy, and mentoring future scholars.
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Former Columbia mayor ready for White House gig
Former Columbia mayor and two-time Gamecock graduate Steve Benjamin has been appointed Director of the White House Office of Public Engagement, bringing his leadership and commitment to community voices to the national stage.
