Why Study Political Science at K?
Learn how to make systematic change, evaluate policy, and be a more conscientious citizen by studying political science at Kalamazoo College.
The political science curriculum at K utilizes philosophical, historical, and comparative analysis to examine governments, political movements, politics, and policies. Notably, in small classes, you will have the chance to evaluate events and policies by diving into relevant case studies and political theory. By the time you graduate, you will be well-versed and prepared for a lifetime of engagement in the ever-changing political world.
As a political science student, you will explore the broad fields of U.S., comparative, and international politics and political theory in classes such as Race Law and U.S. Policy; Politics of Latin America; International Law and Organization; and Feminist Political Theories—to name a few. These courses, in addition to the completion of your Senior Integrated Thesis, will give you the skills you need to critically assess, create, and implement policy.
Studying political science at K sets the foundation for future graduate and professional study, as well as opens the door to an assortment of careers in public service, nongovernmental employment, civic engagement, and political activism at the local, state, national, and international levels. Notably, alumni have had successful careers in law, consulting, advocacy, journalism, and government.
What can you do with a political science degree?
Below are some of the careers, employers, and graduate schools of our political science alumni.
Careers
- Attorney
- Political Consultant
- Paralegal
- Legislative Assistant
- Campaign Manager
Employers
- Amnesty International
- Michigan Immigrant Rights Center
- United States Senate
- Nike
- Farmworker Legal Services of Michigan
Graduate Schools
- University of Michigan
- Michigan State University
- Yale University
- George Washington University
- University of Chicago
Meet the Current Departmental Student Advisor
Hollis Masterson: (he/him/his)
Majors: Political Science and History
Study Abroad: University of Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
Best Adjective to Describe You: Attentive
What is the best thing about being part of this department?
The accessibility of professors. I have been able to meet with multiple professors during office hours or after class to discuss material, contemporary political affairs associated with their field of study, or SIP conversations and have never been disappointed. Not only do these conversations yield a lot of educational value, they can also challenge any and all pre-conceived notions you may have towards an event, theory, or prominent political figure. The professors of the Political Science Department, much like the other departments of Kalamazoo College, are not trying to force you to think a certain way, they are merely giving you the tools to develop your own beliefs.
What drew you to the department?
The discussions amongst students in the classroom have been some of the most intriguing conversations I have taken part in during my college experience. The students and professors are incredibly passionate about their conceptualizations of the many fields of study found within the department while also being willing to accept challenges towards their beliefs. The professors in particular are all incredibly knowledgeable in their areas of focus and can serve as means of enlightenment from the classroom to office hours.
What is your favorite thing about K?
The number of opportunities both on and off campus that are available. These can not only help with your future career but also connect you with like minded individuals. It’s ok to stay within the “K Bubble” if you so choose but there is also a whole network of possibilities not only in the surrounding area of Kalamazoo but also the world and a number of individuals on campus can help you achieve those possibilities
How have you taken advantage of the flexible curriculum or experienced breadth in your education?
In addition to my Political Science Major, I am also a History Major and through that department I have taken courses on Africa, East Asia, and Latin America. I have also utilized the open curriculum to take one course each term (including study abroad) not associated with either of my Majors. These include several Music courses, Indigenous Studies courses, a Philosophy course, and a Critical Ethnic Studies course. All have done well to increase my overall knowledge as well as create a stronger appreciation for each area of study.
What is your Senior Integrated Project (SIP)?
I will be looking for examples of colonial legacy found within contemporary Filipino Foreign Policy by looking back at Spanish Colonial Foreign Policy in regard to security and the South China Sea.
What are your career aspirations/next steps after K?
I am looking at hopefully acquiring a Fulbright Scholarship to return to Australia to acquire a Master’s Degree in International Affairs and then from there possibly pursuing a career in the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) or civic government in the states of Victoria and New South Wales.