Political science programs at liberal arts colleges?

As someone interested in politics and governance, I'm hoping to find a liberal arts college with a strong political science program. I’d love to hear about schools with good faculty and political activities on campus that stand out in this field.

Sure, great question! Political Science is a popular major at many liberal arts colleges, and there are numerous fantastic programs across the U.S. where you can study this field extensively.

1. Williams College: Known for academic rigor and a high-quality faculty, Williams College's political science department offers courses in American Politics, Comparative Politics, International Relations, Political Theory, and Public Law. It also provides opportunities for interdisciplinary studies, combining politics with environmental science, economics, history, etc. The school's Purple PAC, a student-run Super PAC, and the "Williams in Washington" program are examples of active political engagement on and off campus.

2. Amherst College: With a broad curriculum that covers several subdisciplines in political science, this college is another fantastic institution to consider. Many students are politically active, and there are various politics-related events periodically. Its renowned Law, Jurisprudence, and Social Thought (LJST) program allows students to analyze law from a liberal arts perspective, taking into account historical, cultural, philosophical, and empirical approaches.

3. Swarthmore College: The college is known for its Honors Program in Political Science. Humanities and social science subjects, including political science, are prominent here. The faculty are known for their research and teaching prowess. As a college in a swing state and close to Washington D.C., it provides ample opportunities for political engagement.

4. Pomona College: The political science department at Pomona boasts strong relationships with well-recognized research and policy institutions. The college promotes active political participation among its students.

Ensure to thoroughly research each of these colleges to see which aligns best with your educational goals and personal preferences. Additionally, remember to pay attention to the faculty of these programs—ideally, they will be accomplished researchers or experts in their respective fields. Getting to know them can provide substantial growth opportunities both during and after your college years. Lastly, consider opportunities for internships, research work, or other types of experiential learning, as these experiences are incredibly beneficial for political science students.