Undergraduate Programs


What better time to be studying democracy, equality, justice and the role of government? Faculty members in The University of Toledo Political Science degree program covers all of these issues and more in class and their research.

UToledo Political Science majors are well-prepared for careers in government, law, teaching and public service. Many graduates work for nonprofits in Ohio or around the world. Students also frequently go on to work in politics, either on campaigns or as legislative staff.

Political Science is a popular major for UToledo’s pre-law students. Our bachelor’s degree program offers students the option to specialize in legal studies.

Top Reasons to Study Political science at UToledo

  1. Innovative Inside/Out Prison Exchange program.
    This one-of-a-kind course is a perennial favorite. UToledo undergraduates attend class with incarcerated students at the Toledo Correctional Institution. Class subjects vary, but the Department of Political Science and Public Administration often offers courses in the program.
  2. Focus on your interests.
    UToledo’s undergraduate advisors want to get to know you so they can help you create a program to fit your passions and goals. We offer a comprehensive political science program that is strong in public policy, international politics, and law and politics. Political science is a great pre-law major.
  3. Outstanding faculty with diverse specialties.
    Our eight Political Science faculty members have research and scholarly interests ranging from American political institutions and Latin American politics to international relations and law and society. These full-time faculty members teach almost all of our courses and supervise student research.
  4. State-of-the-art technology.
    UToledo Political Science majors use a computer lab equipped with leading statistical research software.
  5. Add a minor in World Cultures.
    This minor in the Department of World Languages and Cultures can enhance any program of study. We live in an increasingly diverse country and can benefit personally and professionally from knowing more about other cultures. The program explores intercultural communication, traditions, how people conduct business and more.

 

What jobs can I get with a political science degree?

UToledo graduates find work in government, law firms, political campaigns, community organizations, international development agencies and other areas of public service.

Our alumni have worked as:

  • Campaign manager for former Toledo mayor Michael Collins
  • City manager
  • Conflicts analyst, law firm of Drinker, Biddle and Reath LLP
  • Grants administrator, Toledo Lucas County Homelessness Board
  • Leadership assistant, Institute for Social Policy and Understanding
  • Legislative assistant
  • Labor organizer
  • Park ranger, National Park Service, U.S. Department of the Interior
  • Student diversity leadership conference facilitator, National Association of Independent Schools
UToledo alumni of the Political Science program go on to graduate school in public administration, business, history, education, geography, political science and public affairs.
 

UToledo Political Science majors also have been accepted to such law schools as:

  • Cornell
  • Harvard
  • Michigan State
  • Ohio State
  • University of Chicago
  • University of Michigan
  • Washington University in St. Louis
 

Hands-On Learning Opportunities

At UToledo, we take you beyond the textbooks and the four walls of a classroom. These real-world experiences are what help our graduates gain professional skills and land jobs.

Internships

Many UToledo Political Science students work with state and local government officials, the state legislature, or with The Washington Center in Washington, DC. Other students intern locally with the city of Toledo and area nonprofit organizations.

Internships help you:

  • Gain practical experience
  • Build your resume
  • Refine your skills
  • Cultivate contacts

Internships often lead to full-time jobs after graduation!

Research

UToledo is known for its undergraduate research opportunities. Start as early as your freshman year. Work with faculty who enjoy collaborating with students.

99
undergraduates received research funding (2022)
21,000+
hours spent by undergraduates on research

Our Office of Undergraduate Research can:

  • Connect you to faculty mentors and projects
  • Help you find funding
  • Help you present your research at conferences and other events

Study Abroad

Travel, experience new cultures and meet new people — all while earning college credit.

UToledo's Education Abroad Office can help you find the perfect opportunity. You can apply for grants, scholarships and financial aid to help fund study abroad.

  • Semester at Sea
  • Short-term, summer and faculty-led trips
  • Direct exchange programs with other universities
  • Teach English abroad
  • Global health program (med student clerkships)
  • Rocket Kids (work with youth around the world)

Rocket Kids Semester

The Rocket Kids program offers University students a fall, spring or summer semester internship providing recreational programming to U.S. military youth while experiencing the world in locations such as Germany, Italy, Belgium and The Netherlands.

Rocket Kids interns will gain practical experience in programming, leadership, health and wellness, creative arts, performing arts, cultural and literary arts, team and individual sports, adventure and outdoor recreation and STEM education.

Learn more

On-campus and Part-time Jobs

  • Learn skills that prepare you for a career after graduation.
  • Build your resume.
  • Earn money.

If you want to work, there are plenty of opportunities on campus and at businesses near campus. If you demonstrate financial need, you may qualify for the federal work-study program.

Student Organizations

Our most successful students get involved.

UToledo has 400+ student organizations that will help you:

  • Make friends.
  • Build your resume.
  • Network.
  • Be a leader.
  • Serve your community.
  • Have fun!

Tuition and Scholarships

Most new students don't pay full price. 94% of new UToledo students receive scholarships or other state and federal aid.

Keep in mind: Your cost will vary by college, program and a host of other options. This is the average amount full-time students pay per year.

A group of University of Toledo graduates at commencement
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Tuition and Fees

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Room and Meal Plan


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per year

How to pay for collegeInternational Student - How to Pay for College

Honors College

The Jesup Scott Honors College at The University of Toledo offer our best and brightest the resources and opportunities needed to unlock your fullest potential. Whether you aspire following graduation to cure disease, innovate technology, advance statecraft, redefine markets, or express creatively, together we can fuel vibrant and promising tomorrows.

Honors students come from a variety of countries, backgrounds and cultures. While we may bond over a tough class, our differences make us blossom.

Honors students talking with an Honors professor on the steps of the Toledo Museum of Art

Benefits of Honors

The Honors College is a community of academically gifted students from all majors on campus. Students take unique Honors classes taught by dedicated Honors faculty and complete an Honors thesis or capstone project in their major, earning the Honors medallion at graduation within their normal program of study. Honors students are challenged to think more deeply and broadly about what they learn. With special academic, cultural, and professional development opportunities, their education extends beyond the classroom.

Honors students can also choose exclusive housing in the Honors Academic Village or the historic McKinnon, Scott and Tucker Halls.

Explore more about what the Honors College can offer you as a budding professional, inquisitive scholar, and engaged person.

 

 

 

 

 

Visit Campus

A campus visit is the best way to figure out if UToledo is a great fit for you.

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Last Updated: 3/8/24