Political Science and Public Affairs Department
Have you ever wondered why countries go to war? Why people vote the way they do? Whether the Mass Media are truly “biased"? Or why the Supreme Court decides cases the way it does? If so, the study of political science and public affairs may be for you.
When you enroll in our undergraduate and graduate academic programs—the NASPAA accredited MPA Program among them—you won’t find yourself regurgitating lecture information, you’ll be researching and applying your knowledge to real-world social and political problems on a local, national, and global scale. Still not convinced?
Want to know more? Contact our Department Head.
Degree Programs
Choose between a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) and a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree or
complement your studies with a minor in political science. These offerings are organized
around the traditional sub-fields of political science: American politics, international
relations, comparative politics, and political theory.
Learn more about the major and minor requirements
The Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) program offers courses in fields such as World Languages,
Politics, Culture, and Globalization.
More information
Western’s NASPAA-accredited MPA Program (taught at our Biltmore Park location) is
your first stop on the way to a career in public service. The program integrates public
affairs theory and practice to improve the managerial, analytical, and communication
skills of students.
Discover more about the curriculum and opportunities provided in the MPA program
Additional Information
We are fortunate to have three endowed undergraduate scholarships, two graduate scholarships, and many awards that are available to our students.
Larger list of special opportunities available to our majors
Get Involved
More opportunities for involvement:
- Political Science Club
- International Studies Club
- NC Student Legislature at WCU
- Model United Nations
- College Democrats
- College Republicans
