Political Science

Political Science: Major

Holy Cross students who major in political science gain in-depth understanding of the American political system, other political regimes, the international system, and political philosophy. In uniformly small classes, students also improve their critical and analytical skills and competence in oral and written expression.

Political science is one of Holy Cross’ most popular majors. The major is rigorously structured so as to ensure breadth as well as depth, with courses required in each of the discipline’s four subfields. Department faculty conceive the most fundamental purpose of the major as helping students to become thoughtful, well-informed, and ethical citizens of a constitutional, self-governing republic. Political science majors have gone on to successful careers in local, state, and federal government, academia,  law, journalism, business, high-school teaching, nonprofit organizations, the armed forces, and the priesthood. 

Program Highlights

Students majoring in political science take courses in four main areas:
 
  • American government
  • political philosophy
  • comparative politics
  • international relations
students and a professor in a class
Subfields

Learn more about the political science department’s four subfields.

students in a classroom with a powerpoint
Charles Carroll Program

The program brings guest lecturers to campus, funds a sophomore seminar and provides paid summer research internships.

Group of students in Washington DC
Washington Semester Program

Many political science majors spend a semester working, studying, and conducting research in Washington, D.C.

Political Science News

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Holy Cross Bestows 2021 Sanctae Crucis Awards
When asked about their 2021 Sanctae Crucis Award ahead of the virtual celebration on May 4, 2021, each honoree offered a variation of the above. In every interview, they expressed surprise and humility, citing the family, friends, colleagues and fellow …
Rudy Antoncic '22 is sworn in remotely as a U.S. Federal Government Pathways intern.
Holy Cross Students Continue Experiential Learning in a Remote Semester
Undeterred by the pandemic, nearly 50 students this spring found fulfilling experiential learning opportunities through the College's J.D. Power Center and other programs
wide angle shot of commencement. Photo by Matt Wright
Holy Cross Celebrates 175th Commencement
Holy Cross announced 748 bachelor of arts degree candidates at its 175th commencement held in person this morning on the College’s Fitton Field. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield, a career diplomat and Representative of the United States of America to the United …