Academic school/college: College of Arts and Sciences, Department of Political Science. This four-year program offers both a Bachelor of Arts (BA) and a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Political Science, allowing students to tailor their degree to their interests. The core curriculum provides an in-depth understanding of how power, politics, and people converge, covering political theory, international and national politics, and policy. Students develop critical thinking, analytical, writing, and communication skills essential for understanding the forces that shape our world. The BA option typically includes a foreign language requirement, benefiting students interested in international affairs or foreign service. The BS option substitutes the foreign language requirement with a stronger focus on statistics, data, and mathematical literacy, preparing students for data-driven political analysis and research. Both degrees offer opportunities for real-world experience through research, internships in legislative offices, government, or public policy organizations, and interactions with elected officials, scholars, and activists. The program encourages students to build their career around building a better world.

Career options for graduates are broad and impactful across various sectors. Graduates are well-prepared for roles in law, public service, government (local, state, federal), political campaigns, non-profit organizations, international affairs, business, journalism, and social activism. The BA particularly suits careers in foreign service, policy-making, and communications. The BS is ideal for roles in data analysis, management consulting, research, and positions requiring strong quantitative skills in both public and private sectors. The university's strong emphasis on student research involvement and real-world experience, through internships and collaborations, enhances career readiness. Graduates have gone on to law school, graduate programs (e.g., in public policy), and held positions as legislative advisors and in communications.

The University of Oregon is a leading public research university and Oregon's only member of the exclusive Association of American Universities (AAU), signifying its commitment to top-tier research and academic excellence. It boasts high levels of student research involvement, providing opportunities to work alongside world-renowned faculty who engage in groundbreaking research. The university offers an unbeatable quality of life in Eugene, a consistently ranked top 50 "college town" on the West Coast, known for its vibrant community, outdoor activities, and progressive atmosphere. The College of Arts and Sciences serves as the intellectual hub, with nearly 800 faculty members covering a wide range of disciplines, fostering a diverse and rich learning environment.