University of St. Thomas - Houston Political Science major in political science building Government impacts almost everything around us, from the condition of the roads we travel to the signal for our smartphones. Studying political science will give you a deeper understanding of how government operates, and the skills to influence it for the better. From public policy to justice, local issues to international relations, political science is the key to understanding what Aristotle called the affairs of the people.

The Political Science degree is offered through the Center for International Studies, the longest-running center of its kind in Houston. The Center empowers you with knowledge and prepares you for a dynamic spectrum of global careers, from advocacy to commerce, diplomacy and public service.
Meet Some Political Science Alumni

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Cameron Waldner (2006) B.A. Political Science Community Recovery Director American Red Cross, Houston, TX

"The quality of education at UST is far superior to other universities I considered. It was excellent preparation for a career in public service."

Cameron Waldner (2006) B.A. Political Science

Community Recovery Director
American Red Cross, Houston, TX

Cassie McGarvey (2003) B.A. Political Science, Phil. Minor (Honors) Partner Sanders McGarvey LLP, Houston, TX

"UST really teaches you how to network and maintain connections with people. This was foundational to getting where I am now."

Cassie McGarvey (2003) B.A. Poli. Sci., Phil. Minor (Honors)

Partner
Sanders McGarvey LLP, Houston, TX

Jesse Bounds (2005) B.A. Political Science, Intl. Studies Director of Innovation City of Houston

"The strong liberal arts education at UST is future-proof. It teaches you how to be a leader, think critically and communicate well."

Jesse Bounds (2005) B.A. Political Science, Intl. Studies

Director of Innovation
City of Houston

Theresa Heard (2008) B.A. Political Science Office Manager HCC Veterans Academy, Houston, TX

"Learning about servant leadership at UST guided me in supporting others with their goals and making a difference in the larger community."

Theresa Heard (2008) B.A. Political Science

Office Manager
HCC Veterans Academy, Houston, TX
Pre-Law Track: Direct Path to Law School

Dr. Jon Taylor teaches a Political Science class at the University of St. Thomas - HoustonExcited to get into law school and become a lawyer? Law schools set high admission standards, and competition can be tough.

The Pre-Law Track at UST sets you up for success, ensuring you meet every requirement for applying to law school. Combine the Political Science major with the Pre-Law Track to complete all the prerequisites for your application to any Texas law school.

Pre-Law Track
Your SuccessYour Success
90% Accepted To Law or Grad School UST Political Science undergrads Source: Political Science Department, 2018 90% Accepted To Law or Grad School UST Political Science undergrads Source: Political Science Department, 2018
90%
Accepted To Law or Grad School

UST POLITICAL SCIENCE UNDERGRADS

Source: Political Science Department, 2018

$115,110 Annual Median Salary for political scientists in U.S. Source: BLS, 2017 $115,110 Annual Median Salary for political scientists in U.S. Source: BLS, 2017
$115,110
Annual Median Salary

FOR POLITICAL SCIENTISTS IN U.S.

Source: BLS, 2017

90% Courses taught by Ph.D. Faculty Source: Political Science Department, 2018 90% Courses taught by Ph.D. Faculty Source: Political Science Department, 2018
90%
Courses taught by Ph.D. Faculty

Source: Political Science Department, 2018
Forge a Better Future

University of St. Thomas - Houston student in Political Science library​Few social sciences offer as many career opportunities as political science. Political science is the most versatile of the social sciences, encompassing a wide range of fields, from politics and government to economics and law to history, sociology and psychology. Many UST Political Science graduates go on to rewarding careers in law, government and education. Alumni are now serving as:

  • Congressional leaders
  • Federal and state judges
  • College professors
  • Business executives
  • Community leaders
Jesse Bounds, University of St. Thomas - Houston Political Science graduate

Employers care about character, intelligence and work ethic. No university is better at developing these qualities than UST.

Jesse Bounds Director of Innovation, City of Houston | B.A. Political Science & International Studies, 2005

Why UST?Why UST?

University of St. Thomas - Houston Mock Trial teamGet hands-on experience debating issues in the role of an attorney, in the Mock Trial program. Compete on a team against other universities and achieve honors that will set you apart for future opportunities. While learning about the judicial system, you’ll develop critical thinking, speaking and debate skills.

The UST Mock Trial team is a rising star, soaring higher in competition every year!
Study Abroad
University of St. Thomas - Houston students on Rome study abroad trip

Gain valuable insight into another culture by studying abroad. Recent study abroad destinations include China and Costa Rica. Other popular locations are Ireland, England, Italy, Spain, France, Greece, Israel, Czech Republic and Jamaica.

Student Govt.
University of St. Thomas - Houston student government members

Strengthen your leadership skills by participating in the UST Student Government Association or the Pi Sigma Alpha Political Science Honor Society. These activities will help you stand out when you apply for jobs after graduation.

Public Service
University of St. Thomas - Houston Political Science student in Crooker Center

Serve the public good, as so many of our graduates are doing. Alumna Cassie McGarvey, partner at Sanders McGarvey LLP, is part of Houston Volunteer Lawyers, the pro bono legal aid arm of the Houston Bar Association.
Developing Minds & Leaders Through Faith

University of St. Thomas - Houston students walk in front of Chapel of St. BasilBold ethical leadership is essential to a brighter future for society. The UST core curriculum revolves around Catholic values of respect for diverse perspectives, a rigorous critical approach and a vibrant community built on understanding and acceptance.

With these principles, we can grow to our full potential, academically and spiritually. UST Political Science graduates are driving positive transformation in how governments fulfill the needs of communities at every level.
faculty

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Dr. Hans Stockton Associate Vice President, International Relations & Engagement
Dr. Hans Stockton
Associate Vice President, International Relations & Engagement
Dr. Kevin Stuart Director of the Center for Faith and Culture; Interim Director for Catholic Studies and MPPA program; Assistant Professor of Political Science
Dr. Kevin Stuart
Director of the Center for Faith and Culture; Interim Director for Catholic Studies and MPPA program; Assistant Professor of Political Science
Christopher Wolfe, Assistant Professor
Dr. Chris Wolfe
Assistant Professor
Dr. Rick Young Associate Professor Pre-Law Advisor
Dr. Rick Young
Associate Professor Pre-Law Advisor
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