From interning at the White House to running for political office, Simpson College prepares you for many challenges. Political science courses are designed to provide students with a basic understanding of the political institutions and public policies of the Unites States and other nations. The aim is for students to gain an appreciation for social justice and the political process and to become fully aware and active citizens. The department provides majors in political science and international relations as well as a pre-law program. The skills acquired in political science classes are particularly appropriate for those students planning careers in teaching, public service, journalism, politics and the legal profession.

• There are numerous opportunities for students to get involved on campus: Student Government Association, Model United Nations, Rock the Vote, New Voters Project, Pre-law Society, College Democrats, College Republicans and Political Action Coalition.

• Political figures who recently have been on campus include Al Gore, George W. Bush, Hillary Rohdam Clinton, Elizabeth Dole, John Edwards and John Kerry.

• Recent graduate schools: University of Iowa, University of Wyoming, Marquette University, Hamline University, University of California-Berkeley, University of Illinois and Rutgers University.

Recent jobs and internships
The White House; Iowa State Attorney General's Office; Iowa State Legislature; Polk County Juvenile Courts; director of field operations, John Kerry campaign; Senator Grassley’s Office; the American Civil Liberties Union and various interest groups.

“The classes in political science are geared to welcome the intense debate of issues and foster political awareness in students. My professors have taught me that my opinions can change the world.”

Michael Schrodt
Altoona, Iowa

Learn more about the Political Science Department.