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Social Sciences

Political Science

Bachelor of Arts (BA)

 

Students currently enrolled in the undergraduate political science major can complete degrees in their major. However, as of Fall 2023 we are no longer accepting students into this program.

Study the systems of government that shape people’s lives.

Debate the uses—and misuses—of power. Gain an understanding of how government policies are made and implemented. As a political science major, become fluent in political issues and movements and examine political theory, history, and context. You'll graduate prepared for meaningful careers in business, law, education, journalism, government, communications, and nongovernmental organizations (NGOs).

Our smaller class sizes mean that your viewpoint will be heard as you share your ideas and build on existing theory. And, with our reimagined general education curriculum, you’ll take courses from across different disciplines, connect your learning to the world around you, and graduate ready to work on the most pressing social issues of our time.

Immerse yourself in the professional world of policy making, government processes, and community organizing during two internships in the Greater Boston area. You'll gain hands on experience and make the connections that will launch your career as you intern in places like the Massachusetts State House, Edward Kennedy Institute, Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office, Senator Elizabeth Warren’s Office, and many more.

Construct compelling arguments about the causes of, and solutions to, political problems. Approach research from both a behavioral and a scientific perspective. And analyze governance at the local, national, and global levels and assess its impact on the public. You'll hone your ability to write and speak with precision and refine your critical-thinking skills in discussions with faculty and classmates.

You’ll emerge from our Political Science program with expertise in governmental structures and processes, methods for evaluating policy, strategies for exercising power, and conceptual tools for analyzing political events and outcomes. 

Undergraduate Program Inquiry Form

Program Structure

Full-time or part-time on-campus program

120 Credits
Thinking about transferring here?

Log in to Transferology, add the courses you've taken, and see how they'll transfer to Lesley University.

Craft Creative Combinations
As a Political Science major, you can pursue a second major or one of our 45+ minors—in art & design or a liberal arts subject—to expand your career opportunities.

Forge your own path with a creative combination:
Gain Skills & Expertise
Here's a taste of what you could do in our Political Science major.
students interacting in classroom

Small College, Big University

Within the dynamic environment of a larger university, you'll receive the personalized education of a small liberal arts college of 1,300 students. You'll learn from our highly specialized faculty who are passionate experts in the social sciences and beyond—from child homelessness to social work, human services, political science, and more.

Elizabeth Shugart

Elizabeth Shugart ’19

Elizabeth's commitment to social justice reflects the heart of Lesley’s mission. In addition to being Executive Chair of the Campus Activities Board, Elizabeth has worked as a Communications Intern for State Senator Patricia Jehlen and as a campaign associate at the Blue-Lab group. They are “a political incubator that is revolutionizing progressive political campaigns and the next generation of candidates and campaigners” who work “to lower the barrier of entry for first-time, minority, and female candidates.” Elizabeth volunteered for Blue-Lab because she thought it was important to be working to redress our dire political situation. Political Science Professor Illuzzi adds, “Elizabeth is an exceptional student whose priority is not on grades-for-grades-sake but rather how she can best work to promote greater justice in an unjust world."

Careers
Jobs You Could Have
Demand for political science majors is projected to increase by over five percent in the next ten years in a wide range of industries, including:
Careers
Where You Could Work
Graduates of political science programs pursue a wide range of careers across a variety of industries. Top employers of graduates include:
$109,060
Average salary for political science professionals in Massachusetts
Massachusetts is the fourth highest paying state in the country for political science occupations. From communications and consulting to political strategy, research, advocacy, and more, the program will prepare you for important work across a range of industries (Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2019).
doble campus during the fall

Cambridge is our campus. Boston is our neighbor.

Whether you're pursuing social work, political science, or another major in the social sciences, you'll take classes on our three beautiful Cambridge campuses. You'll discover the Cambridge and Boston area—a dynamic hub of professional opportunity, service work, culture, and fun few other cities can match. And, you'll build your résumé and make connections through internships as you take advantage of the rich resources in Massachusetts, home to 20,000+ nonprofits.

Faculty

Approximate cost, before financial aid, for one year of study in this undergraduate program.
Political Science
Housing Options
Compare the cost of the program for students who live on campus in a residence hall with the cost for commuter students.
  • Tuition
    Fall Tuition
    $15,945
    Spring Tuition
    $15,945
  • Fees
    Software Fee
    $200
    Fall Comprehensive Fee
    $445
    Spring Comprehensive Fee
    $445
  • Room & Board
    Fall Health and Wellness Fee
    $445
    Spring Health and Wellness Fee
    $445
    Fall Room (double, triple, or quad room)
    $5,740
    Spring Room (double, triple, or quad room)
    $5,740
    Fall Meal Plan
    $3,790
    Spring Meal Plan
    $3,790
    Housing Deposit (one-time fee)
    $300
  • Total cost before financial aid
Estimated Cost

Merit Scholarships & Financial Aid

It’s our goal at Lesley to break down financial barriers so that students who want to learn here, can learn here. That’s why we offer generous, customized aid packages for students based on their individual needs. In fact, more than 98% of our full-time undergraduate students receive some form of financial aid. Learn more about Financial Aid & Scholarships.

Tuition & Fees

Other fees may apply. Review all undergraduate tuition and fees, and what they cover.

Tuition and fees are subject to change each year, effective June 1.

Housing Options
Compare the cost of the program for students who live on campus in a residence hall with the cost for commuter students.
  • Tuition
    Fall Tuition
    $15,945
    Spring Tuition
    $15,945
  • Fees
    Software Fee
    $200
    Fall Comprehensive Fee
    $445
    Spring Comprehensive Fee
    $445
  • Room & Board
    Fall Health and Wellness Fee
    $445
    Spring Health and Wellness Fee
    $445
    Fall Room (double, triple, or quad room)
    $5,740
    Spring Room (double, triple, or quad room)
    $5,740
    Fall Meal Plan
    $3,790
    Spring Meal Plan
    $3,790
    Housing Deposit (one-time fee)
    $300
  • Total cost before financial aid
Estimated Cost

Merit Scholarships & Financial Aid

It’s our goal at Lesley to break down financial barriers so that students who want to learn here, can learn here. That’s why we offer generous, customized aid packages for students based on their individual needs. In fact, more than 98% of our full-time undergraduate students receive some form of financial aid. Learn more about Financial Aid & Scholarships.

Tuition & Fees

Other fees may apply. Review all undergraduate tuition and fees, and what they cover.

Tuition and fees are subject to change each year, effective June 1.

Apply Now

Ready to get started? We're here to make the application process as smooth as possible. Just answer a few quick questions, and get your customized application guide.

Approximate cost, before financial aid, for one year of study in this undergraduate program. Tuition and fees are for the 2023-2024 academic year.
Use our step-by-step guide to apply for federal, state, and university funding. Scholarships, grants, Work-Study, and loans. It’s all right here.

Next steps to apply

Ready to get started? We're here to make the application process as smooth as possible. Just answer a few quick questions, and get your customized application guide.