College has been described as the best time in people’s lives. It’s where many of us find ourselves and figure out who we are. Part of this discovery lies in determining what course of study you’d like to take. Maybe with the recent election, you are wondering more and more if political science is the right course for you.
Maybe you’ve already been taking classes and want to learn more. While there are many universities out there that offer extensive political science degrees, you want to find the one that fits you best.
Private vs. Public Universities
The basic difference between private and public universities lies in the way the institutions are funded. State funds are generally used to financially support public universities, making them affordable for a broader range of students. Private universities do not receive public funding which means that they rely on money from tuition and contributions to run their programs. In the US, private universities may be associated with the idea of providing a more rigorous education for students, but this is a misconception. Many public universities offer an excellent learning environment and should not be discounted when choosing an institution of higher learning.
Here is a list of 10 schools, both private and public, that have impressive political science programs:
10. Columbia University
In the late 1800’s Columbia University began its Political Science Department. It is credited with being the first of its kind, according to their website. The faculty at Columbia University consists of the best in the field who are dedicated to their teachings and students. Because of this, you won’t be disappointed in the education you receive here. These professors are experienced and know what they’re talking about.
Columbia also offers a graduate program with courses ranging from American politics to methodology. Many famous political figures studied at Columbia University. Theodore Roosevelt, the 26th President of the United States of America, studied Law here.
Click here for more information on their graduate programs.
9. University of Washington
Another university to consider when studying political science is the University of Washington. They believe in hands- on learning. According to their website, they provide their students with many opportunities including sponsorship of undergraduate research fellows and long-standing connections to internship programs in DC. Students who study here will find themselves with an extensive education in politics and policies of the US and other countries.
They offer a Ph.D. program so that you can continue your education and train more in your field. A great benefit of this university is that they allow students to be flexible in their concentrations and give them the experience to continue to succeed once they have graduated. Students may go on to careers as professors or elected officials while others take their knowledge and apply it to other areas, such as business. Christine Charbonneau, president of Planned Parenthood of the Great Northwest and Hawaiian Islands was awarded the Distinguished Alumni Award of 2015.
8. Princeton University
Princeton University’s Department of Politics is another great option for those of you looking into an Ivy League education. According to their website, they are “one of the largest and most intellectually diverse political science programs in the world”. Students will learn all they can and get the most possible attention and help due to the fact that class sizes are kept small. You will find a helpful staff at Princeton as long as you’re ready to work hard.
Princeton’s graduate program has recently expanded, according to their website. You’ll find training that will direct benefit you and teach you what you need to know to make an exciting professional career out of your degree. On US News & World Report‘s ranking, Princeton is number 2 for best political science graduate school. If that’s not enough to convince you, Former First Lady Michelle Obama is a graduate of Princeton University.
