Major Minor
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
Claire McCall (She/Her/Hers)
Major: Political Science
Minor: English
Concentration: American Studies
What is the best thing about being part of this department?
The constant real-world application of subject matter and incredible class discussions.
What has been your favorite class at K? Why?
My favorite class at K was Constitutional Law which I took during the spring term of my sophomore year with Dr. Berry. While taking this class, the draft opinion on Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization was leaked. The outcome of such an opinion was then constitutionally analyzed by politicians, reporters, and citizens alike. Being able to write and talk about the details of the impending decision in correct constitutional law terms was exciting and important. The class was the clearest example to me of school lessons being applied to matters of the real world.
What experiential education opportunities have you participated in?
After studying abroad in Athens, Greece during the fall/winter terms, I held an internship with the Michigan House of Representatives where I focused on constituent outreach initiatives. I have been a part of multiple local campaigns as a social media director, organizer, and canvasser. On campus, I have held positions in KCCSR [student government] and K Dems (which is currently not meeting, though I hope it will begin again). My sophomore year, I was a Peer Leader and I will return to the new and improved position as a First Year Experience Mentor this fall!
What is your Senior Integrated Project (SIP)?
My SIP focuses on the effect book bans have on the social and political atmosphere in Florida. Specifically researching how such literary restrictions either bolster or silence voters—falls under political behavioral analysis.
What are your career aspirations/next steps after K?
My current career aspiration is to become a political journalist. I love to write and I enjoy keeping up with what affects people politically. Journalism can capture both of those interests! I have always been interested in law, too, and think at some point I would like to go to law school.