Five polisci students in front of the Social Sciences building

Department of Political Science

Explore power, change, and justice. UMN Political Science empowers students to analyze issues, challenge perspectives, and shape the world through research and leadership.

Undergraduate

Graduate

Equity & Diversity

The Art of the Possible

Political Science Colloquia

One of our greatest strengths is our thriving intellectual community. We host several colloquia where graduate students, faculty, and internationally renowned visiting scholars can share their research.

Colloquia

Recent News

Superb Political Science Spring 2026 Classes

Learn more about the superb classes being offered by the Department of Political Science for spring 2026!

Caitlyn Barrett Explores the Psychological Roots of Political Participation Gap

Graduate student Caitlyn Barrett’s research reveals how early life and class shape political participation, bridging psychology and political science to explain inequality.

Student Spotlight: Veronica Broskovetz

Meet Veronica Broskovetz, a junior majoring in political science.

Trump's 'alarming' and 'incoherent' stand on nuclear testing

Professor Mark Bell discusses the confusion caused by Trump's statement and what shift it could signal in policy.

The legal and political questions surrounding Trump's deployment of National Guard troops

Professor Ron Krebs discusses what's at stake—legally, politically, and for the U.S. tradition of keeping the military out of domestic affairs.

Upcoming Events

Online

November 20, 2025

Give to Department of Political Science Internships

This Give to the Max Day, support political science students hoping to gain critical professional experience through various internships, from government to law to nonprofit.