Politically Focused Schools in Pennsylvania

Hi! I'm a junior considering pursuing political science, but I want to stay in Pennsylvania. What are the best colleges in PA for this field? A strong program with good networking opportunities would be ideal.

There are several colleges in Pennsylvania known for their strong political science programs. Here's a sampling of them:

1. University of Pennsylvania (UPenn): Both globally recognized and located in Philadelphia, UPenn's political science program is highly renowned. What makes UPenn standout is its on-campus resources like the Perry World House which is an international affairs think tank.

2. Swarthmore College: Known for its rigorous academics, Swarthmore has a highly-regarded political science program. Additionally, it's a part of the Quaker Consortium, which means you're also able to take classes at UPenn.

3. Dickinson College: Dickinson emphasizes global education, and political science is one of their most popular majors. With its proximity to the state's capital, Harrisburg, there are many opportunities for internships and other hands-on learning experiences.

4. Penn State University: Aside from providing, a strong curriculum, PSU's political science department encourages students to participate in internships and study abroad programs to get real-world experience.

5. Haverford College: Haverford is another college with a strong political science program. It's also a part of the Quaker Consortium, which provides access to classes at UPenn.

It's important to note that rankings can fluctuate and the "best" school for you may not necessarily be the highest ranked one. Consider the extracurricular opportunities, internship availability, and the overall culture and feel of the campus alongside the strength of the academic program. After all, you'll be spending at least four years there. It's important to feel at home!