Program Overview

Bachelor of Arts Degree in Political Science with Specialization in Courts, Justice and Politics

The Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science with a specialization in Courts, Justice and Politics at Oakland University offers a comprehensive education that combines rigorous academics with focused professional development. This program provides practical and affordable preparation for careers in law, government, policy analysis, reform advocacy, and other professions related to political science.

Program Overview

The courts, justice and politics specialization of Oakland University's political science degree features outstanding academic training and advanced opportunities for undergraduate research. Students have extensive opportunities to gain hands-on experience in legislatures, courts, advocacy organizations, and other real-world settings. The program is designed to give students a competitive edge that can translate into professional success, whether they are bound for the workforce, law school, a graduate political science degree, or another career destination.

The Oakland University Advantage

Oakland University's political science degree offers high-quality, career-focused instruction at a comparatively low cost. The institution's long tradition of civic engagement adds significant value to the political science degree, enabling students to connect on campus and in the community with professionals who are active in the legal, judicial, and political systems.

Key Features of the Program

• Immersive Real-World Experience: Students enjoy superior opportunities to gain first-hand experience in the political science program. Most students complete at least one internship that closely aligns with their career goals.
• Development of Graduate-Level Research Skills: Political science majors routinely collaborate with faculty on research, often gaining co-authorship credit and presenting at academic conferences.
• Learning from High-Caliber Faculty: The political science degree is led by accomplished scholars and practitioners, including many who have earned national recognition for their research.
• Exploration of Career Options: The program's flexible course requirements enable students to learn about various possible careers, including strong preparation for careers in nonprofit advocacy, public service, government administration, or policy analysis.
• Dynamic Student Community: The political science department is among the most active on campus, with a student population that has won national recognition for high voter participation.

Career Opportunities

The courts, justice and politics specialization of Oakland's political science degree offers excellent preparation for particular types of jobs in political science. Graduates routinely go into the workforce in jobs related to public policy analysis, political advocacy, consulting, community organizing, and other forms of civic involvement. Many also go on to law school, gaining admission to prestigious institutions.

Employers of Recent Graduates

• U.S. Department of State
• Social Security Administration
• Office of Governor Rick Snyder
• City of Detroit
• City of Ferndale
• Rocket Fiber
• National Diversity Council
• AmeriCorps
• Peace Corps
• Americans for Prosperity
• JP Morgan Chase
• Kelly Services
• Fiat USA
• Quicken Loans
• Comerica Bank
• Oakland County Circuit Court

Program Requirements

To earn the political science degree with specialization in courts, justice and politics, students begin with an introductory course and a core cluster that covers data analysis, research processes, and world politics or comparative politics. The program includes required courses in political thought and law, plus a minimum of three elective courses. Political science electives focus on subjects such as Congress and the legislative processes, the judicial process, constitutional law, civil rights, gender discrimination, international law, and comparative/international politics.

Political Science Major: What You'll Learn

The political science degree culminates in an advanced seminar and capstone project that showcases students' skills in research, writing, and critical analysis.

Related Programs

For students unsure if the political science degree is right for them, Oakland University offers other undergraduate programs to consider, including:

• Bachelor of Arts in International Relations
• Bachelor of Arts in History
• Bachelor of Science in Public Administration and Public Policy

Current Internships

A wide range of internships are available to political science majors, offering hands-on experience in various fields related to political science, including government, advocacy, law, and public policy. Examples of current internships include positions in government agencies, non-profit organizations, legal offices, and private companies.