BS Political Science at University of Idaho

Programme overview

Earning your degree in political science provides you with a comprehensive understanding of government systems, political behavior and policy formulation at both the domestic and international level. You will develop critical thinking, research and analytical skills, preparing you for roles in public policy, law and advocacy.

Faculty: College of Letters, Arts and Social Sciences | Department: Department of Politics and Philosophy | Duration: 4 years, 120 credits | Study mode: full-time | Location: Moscow, ID, United States

What you will study

The degree totals 120 credits. Required courses listed in the catalogue include POLS 1101 American National Government; POLS 2350 Political Research Methods and Approaches; POLS 4900 Senior Experience (Requires Senior standing or 24 credit hours in political science.); ENGL 1101 Writing and Rhetoric I; POLS 1000 First-Year Experience ( First Year Experience ); ENGL 1102 Writing and Rhetoric II.

Career pathways

Through studying political theories, governance and legal frameworks, you will be equipped to influence public decision-making and pursue careers in public administration, diplomacy or political consulting. Related occupations listed for this programme include Regulatory Affairs Managers; Compliance Managers; Loss Prevention Managers; Chief Executives; Chief Sustainability Officers; Legislators.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

University-level admission applies to all undergraduate majors (no separate programme application): first-year applicants with a cumulative unweighted high-school GPA of 3.00 or higher are automatically considered and test scores are not required; applicants with a GPA of 2.60-2.99 must submit ACT or SAT scores or opt in to the Vandal Gateway Program; Idaho residents scoring 3 or higher on both the ISAT Math and Literacy tests are eligible regardless of GPA.

Entry terms: fall (August start), spring (January start) and summer (mid-May start). Fall 2027 applications are open and the university admits on a rolling basis.

First-year applicants apply through the University of Idaho application or the Common App. The application fee is $50 (nonrefundable) and is not required for Idaho residents. ACT or SAT scores are requested where available; first-year students with a cumulative unweighted GPA of 3.00 or higher are automatically considered and test scores are not required.

International undergraduate applicants: rolling admission with no hard deadline; apply at least three months before the start date. Last day to apply: fall May 1, spring Oct. 1, summer March 1. The application fee is $50 USD, paid by credit or debit card in the application portal.

Law (JD): apply through the LSAC portal; the Fall 2027 application opens Sept. 1, 2026 and the final deadline is June 30, 2027. The application fee is $50 (waived through Jan. 15, 2027).

Apply through the official page: https://www.uidaho.edu/admissions-apply/first-year-students

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