Why study POSCIR?

Why study Political Science and International Relations?

 

Politics is part of everyday life, from elections to global challenges. At UD, you’ll explore how governments, organizations, and people shape the world, and how identities like race, gender, and nationality influence political life.
 

Programs That Fit Your Goals

  • Majors: Political Science, International Relations, Political Science Education

  • Minors: Political Science, Political Communication, Politics and Social Justice and Legal Studies (popular with pre-law students)
  • Interdisciplinary 4+1 programComplete your bachelor's degree and a master's program in just five years

Our courses cover American Politics, Comparative Politics, Law & Political Theory, and International Relations. You’ll also find Honors, research, service learning, and study abroad opportunities to enrich your education.

STUDENT SPOTLIGHTS

Finnley DiBenedetto
Finnley is a junior political science major in the Political Science and International Relations department

Assistantship Spotlight: Finnley DiBenedetto

Being an undergraduate research assistant is a phenomenal opportunity, and these students play important roles in the progress and success of all varieties of projects. 

Read more about Finnley

Annie McTaggart
Annie McTaggart is a senior in the Political Science and International Relations department.

Assistantship Spotlight: Annie McTaggart

Undergraduate teaching assistant Annie McTaggart shares how leading discussions and reviews in Introduction to Global Politics bridged students and deepened her learning.

Read more about Annie

Alex Keating
Alex Keating is a senior international relations major in the Political Science and International Relations department.

Ambassador Spotlight: Alex Keating

University of Delaware student ambassador Alex Keating shares how outreach, Decision Day events and World Scholars shaped her experience.
 

Read more about Alex

Our students know how to make the most of the opportunities in the department. Listen to Laura O’Connor, class of 2025, talk about her time as a legislative fellow.

Listen to Laura O’Connor, class of 2025, talk about her time as a legislative fellow. : https://capture.udel.edu/media/1_tt9fv4op/

Career Paths

A degree in Political Science or International Relations opens doors across public and private sectors. Graduates work in:

  • Government & Policy: legislative analyst, foreign service officer, federal/state/local agencies

  • Law & Advocacy: paralegal, lobbyist assistant, campaign staff

  • Global Business & Communication: trade specialist, interpreter, PR coordinator, international business analyst

  • Media & Education: journalist, language instructor, teacher

Pro Tip: Connect with UD’s Career Services Center for job listings, internships, and interview prep.

 

Get Connected

Already a major? Meet with your faculty advisor to plan your path and make the most of your UD experience. Questions? Email us at poscir-info@udel.edu or visit the department office at 347 Smith Hall.

Faculty Spotlight

Dr. Erin Cassese 

Meet University of Delaware political psychologist Erin Cassese. Explore her teaching, student research, and insights on gender, campaigns, and voter behavior.

Read more about Erin Cassese

 During this 2024 installment of the Carter Lecture Series, Dr. Cassese spoke about her recent research on the representation of female candidates in congressional elections.
During the 2024 installment of the Carter Lecture Series, Dr. Cassese spoke about her recent research on the representation of female candidates in congressional elections.