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
Ryan Sanborn
(he/him)
Major: Political Science
Minor/Concentration: History and American Studies
Study Abroad: London, England
Best Adjectives to Describe You: Friendly, Upbeat, Competitive
What is the best thing about being part of this department?
An incredible, brilliant faculty and impressive, passionate students meet inside engaging classes
What drew you to the department?
I knew I wanted to be a Political Science major before I attended K, but the kindness and passion of the faculty made me want to spend as much time as I could within the Political Science department.
What is your favorite thing about K?
I love the close bonds with students and faculty. The close-knit and kind support network has truly allowed me to succeed during my years here.
How have you taken advantage of the flexible curriculum or experienced breadth in your education?
The open curriculum has allowed me to take many more WGS courses than I would have otherwise, allowing me to explore a topic I am now very interested in.
What is your Senior Integrated Project (SIP)?
Beyond The 2024 Election: U.S Foreign Policy and Shifting Arab-American Partisanship in Southeast Michigan
What are your career aspirations/next steps after K?
I plan to attend Law School and obtain a JD.