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 program: Complete 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
2026 Student Award Ceremony
The Department of Political Science and International Relations recognized student achievements, scholarships, research and experiential learning awards.
Assistantship Spotlight: Jackson Hamilton
Political science major Jackson Hamilton is helping UD professor Erin Cassese develop The Politics of Sport, a new undergraduate course.
Dolan Award Supports Alexa Webber’s Path to Public Law
Dolan Award recipient Alexa Webber shares how her UD experiences shaped her interest in public law and her plans to pursue a legal career.
Truman Scholar
Political science and public policy double major Mirabella Troncoso receives a prestigious scholarship for aspiring public service leaders.
Study Abroad Spotlight: Reva Sathe
Student Reva Sathe shares how studying abroad in Paris built global awareness, cultural insight and confidence.
2026 Goldwater Scholars
Political science student Kathleen Higgins is among five UD students named 2026 Goldwater Scholars for excellence in research.
Ambassador Spotlight: Alex Keating
Student ambassador Alex Keating shares how outreach, Decision Day events and World Scholars shaped her experience.
Explore past spotlights
Internship Spotlight: Scarlet Wohlman
April 15, 2026 | Written by: Caroline Schenk, Graduate Student
University of Delaware student Scarlet Wohlman discusses her IPA internship, civic education research and advice for students seeking internships.
Study Abroad Spotlight: Reva Sathe
April 15, 2026 | Written by: Caroline Schenk, Graduate Student
University of Delaware student Reva Sathe shares how studying abroad in Paris built global awareness, cultural insight and confidence.
Assistantship Spotlight: Annie McTaggart
August 25, 2025 | Written by: Caroline Schenk, Graduate Student
Annie McTaggart reflects on serving as an undergraduate teaching assistant for Introduction to Global Politics and the skills she gained.
Assistantship Spotlight: Finnley DiBenedetto
August 25, 2025 | Written by: Caroline Schenk, Graduate Student
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.
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 SpotlightS
Dr. Benjamin Garcia-Holgado
UD political science professor Benjamin Garcia-Holgado discusses his research on democratic stability, erosion and the importance of defending liberal democracy.
Dr. Erin Cassese
Meet University of Delaware political psychologist Erin Cassese. Explore her teaching, student research, and insights on gender, campaigns, and voter behavior.
