Political Science explores systematic approaches to understanding politics. Students may choose to take a general approach to the subject or pursue a concentration in the sub-fields of American politics, comparative politics, international relations or political theory. In addition students may select a world region for an area studies concentration. The Political Science Department's course offerings span the discipline of political science, from American political institutions, to the politics of world regions, the emergence of a new international order, and recent and ancient political ideas. The Department's curriculum is divided into the four standard fields of American politics, comparative politics, international relations, and political theories. There are also other opportunities for study in political processes of elections and communications and public policy.
The minimum total course units for graduation in this major is 32. Double majors may entail more course units.
A minimum of 9 course units in Political Science is required, of which 6 must be taken in the Political Science Department at the University of Pennsylvania (includes Washington, DC Semester). See Major Program Booklet for Transfer and AP credit restrictions.