Political Science (B.A./B.S.)
The political science program at ODU focuses on the study of the state, government, and politics in the domestic and international realms. It is designed to give students an essential core of knowledge, and to develop their critical thinking and analytical skills. Students have the opportunity to study American politics, Virginia state and local politics, public law, international relations, and comparative politics. Both the B.A. and B.S. degrees are offered. The B.A. emphasizes complementary preparation in a foreign language through the intermediate level. The B.S. emphasizes development of quantitative research and data analysis skills.
Political Science (B.A./B.S.)
Description
What is Political Science at ODU like?
The political science program at ODU focuses on the study of the state, government, and politics in the domestic and international realms. It is designed to give students an essential core of knowledge, and to develop their critical thinking and analytical skills. Students have the opportunity to study American politics, Virginia state and local politics, public law, international relations, and comparative politics. Both the B.A. and B.S. degrees are offered. The B.A. emphasizes complementary preparation in a foreign language through the intermediate level. The B.S. emphasizes development of quantitative research and data analysis skills.
Program Highlights
What makes Political Science at ODU unique?
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Faculty and student achievements are nationally and internationally recognized
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Pre-law advising available to political science and other students from across the University
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Internship and practicum credit can be earned by students upon attaining junior status
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Students who complete the program are eligible for admission to graduate and law school or direct entry to the job market
Careers
What are some careers in this field?
Check out these ideas from ODU Career Development Services and the Occupational Information Network (O*NET). A median salary is the midpoint of what people typically earn—half of those surveyed earned above the median salary, and half earned below.
Political Scientists
$112,030
MEDIAN SALARY
Study the origin, development, and operation of political systems. May study topics, such as public opinion, political decision-making, and ideology. May analyze the structure and operation of governments, as well as various political entities. May conduct public opinion surveys, analyze election results, or analyze public documents.
Reporters and Correspondents
$51,550
MEDIAN SALARY
Collect and analyze facts about newsworthy events by interview, investigation, or observation. Report and write stories for newspaper, news magazine, radio, or television.
Legislators
$46,350
MEDIAN SALARY
Develop, introduce or enact laws and statutes at the local, tribal, State, or Federal level. Includes only workers in elected positions.
Employers
Graduates from this major have gone to work at
City of Norfolk Department of Economic Development, City of Virginia Beach City Council, City of Virginia Beach Police Department, Embassy of Ethiopia in Washington, DC, Old Dominion University
Courses
What are some courses offered in Political Science at ODU?
POLS 100S:
Introduction to International Politics
This course provides a basic introduction to the study of international politics. It considers some of the more prominent theoretical perspectives in the discipline and examines the major political, economic, social and environmental issues presently facing the global community. The course prepares students for advanced study in international politics.
POLS 101S:
Introduction to American Politics
This course introduces students to the political processes and the institutions of American politics. The course examines American political culture, gender and minority rights, citizen participation, national institutions, public policy, and foreign and defense policy.
POLS 301W:
Introduction to Public Law
Introduces the student to the American legal system through an examination of its institutions, practitioners, and processes. A general survey of constitutional law, administrative law, civil and criminal law, and selected topics of substantive and procedural dimensions of the court system. This is a writing intensive course. Prerequisites: POLS 101S and a grade of C or better in ENGL 211C or ENGL 221C or ENGL 231C.
Requirements
What are the requirements to apply for Political Science at ODU?
Students entering the BA,BS program in Political Science should meet the minimum university admission requirements (Undergraduate Admission)
The program offers both the Bachelors of Arts (B.A.) and Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degrees in Political Science.
The Bachelors of Arts requires a total of 36 credit hours in political science, including three introductory courses and a course in research methods. B.A. students also earn 24 elective credit hours (usually eight additional courses) in political science. Their general education requirements include language study through the intermediate level (202).
The Bachelors of Science in Political Science requires a total of 36 credit hours in political science, including three introductory courses, research methods, and quantitative methods. B.S. students also earn 21 elective hours (usually seven additional courses) in political science. Their general education requirements include language study through the introductory level (102), and elementary statistics.
Cost
Tuition and Fees
Estimated rates for the 2022-23 academic year. Rates are subject to change. Anyone that is not a current Virginia resident will be charged non-resident rates. That includes international students.
Virginia Resident
Per Credit:
$ 374
Non-Resident
Per Credit:
$ 1,039
Active Duty Military Rate
Per Credit:
$ 250
Technology Delivered Courses Outside Virginia and/or the United States
Per Credit:
$ 407
Ways to Save
Here are a few ways for you to save on the cost of attending ODU. For more information visit University Student Financial aid
Next Steps
I like this program. What are the next steps?
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Contact
Need help applying?
Meet Your Enrollment Team
Our enrollment coordinators are ready to help you through the admissions process.
Professor & Chair
Name:
Dr. Jonathan Leib
Location:
7002 BATTEN ARTS & LETTERS, NORFOLK, VA, 23529
Email:
Office:
757-683-3841
Undergraduate Admissions
Location:
1004 Rollins Hall, Norfolk, VA 23529
Phone Office:
757-683-3685
Fax:
757-683-3255
Email:
admissions@odu.edu
International Admissions
Location:
2101 Dragas Hall, Norfolk, VA 23529
Phone Office:
757-683-3701
Fax:
757-683-3651
Email:
intladm@odu.edu
Transfer
I like this program and want to transfer. What are my next steps?
At ODU, we understand that as a transfer student you have unique needs that require a wide array of campus resources. The Center for Advising Administration and Academic Partnerships aims to create a transfer inclusive culture that supports the successful transition, engagement, and academic achievement of transfer students. The services and programs offered to you as a Monarch are endless so take advantage of every opportunity. Even before you set foot on campus, we encourage you to Explore, Experience, and Engage! Visit our Transfer Students page for more information.
Related Programs
What other options does ODU have?
How would you like to complete your program?
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