I'm planning on doing a double major in political science and economics. What are the best colleges for pursuing this kind of interdisciplinary study? Are there any schools known for strong programs in both areas?
Sounds like you have a clear plan for your academic future. To answer your question, several schools come to mind for a strong political science and economics double major.
1. Harvard University: Harvard is renowned for both its economics and political science (Government) programs. Its economics program is one of the strongest in the country and it has produced multiple Nobel laureates. The Government department includes the study of international and U.S. politics and political theory.
2. Stanford University: Stanford has very strong programs in both political science and economics. Conveniently, Stanford's political science program offers a subfield of study specifically in Political Economy, examining the relationship between politics and economics.
3. University of Chicago: UChicago's economics program is legendary (home of the Chicago School of Economics), and its political science program also is very strong, focusing on the scientific study of politics.
4. MIT: Though better-known for its science and engineering programs, MIT has very strong programs in both economics and political science.
5. Yale University: Yale's economics program is extremely strong, and its political science department is known for its focus on both domestic and international governance.
6. UC Berkeley: Berkeley is known nationally for the strength of both its economics and political science programs. For an in-state student, it's particularly desirable with a more reasonable price tag.
These are just a few examples, many other schools like Columbia University, Princeton University, and the University of Michigan have top-notch economics and political science programs. Remember to also consider other aspects beyond academic strength in your decision, such as the overall campus culture, financial affordability, location, size of the school, and the opportunities available for internships or research in your field of interest.
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