Undergraduate Program

Tricia-Marie Closs, political science major, is a recent graduate of UNH. Back in 2001, Tricia-Marie watched the tragedy of 9/11 unfold on television. “I was home schooled so I saw it live,” recalls Closs. That’s when her interest in international security and strategy crystallized. “I knew from the beginning at UNH that I wanted to major in political science,” says Closs. In the summer before her senior year, she interned in Washington, D.C. “Most of my work was through NEMA—the National Emergency Management Association,” says Closs. “I attended a lot of Congressional hearings, both House and Senate, and wrote detailed memos—about 10 pages each—for NEMA’s director of government relations.” Closs, who has a minor in Russian, plans to go to graduate school in international affairs. But first she wants to work on a presidential campaign. “Everyone I’ve talked to has said it’s an experience not to be missed,” says Closs. She is also interested in starting a foundation to advocate for research on cancers that affect women. “My mom passed away two years ago from ovarian cancer and this would be one way to honor her,” says Closs, who has already written a blueprint for it.

The study of government and politics, to which the courses and seminars of the Department of Political Science are devoted, includes the development of knowledge of political behavior by individuals and groups as well as knowledge about governments: their nature and functions; their problems and behavior; and their interactions-at the national and international levels and at the local, state, and regional levels.

Much of the learning offered by the Department of Political Science can also be regarded as essential for good citizenship, since political knowledge helps to explain the formal and informal institutions by which we are governed and the forces which lead to policy decisions, and also seeks to clarify the issues and principles that encourage people toward political involvement. It contributes to the store of knowledge necessary for informed citizenship. In addition, such learning is especially valuable to students planning to enter local or national government or other public service, including the Foreign Service, and it will be of great help to those who intend to study law and enter the legal profession. For teaching, particularly at the college level, and for many types of government service, graduate work may be indispensable. An undergraduate major in political science will provide a helpful foundation for any further study of politics and related fields in the social sciences and humanities. Such an emphasis will also be valuable for students seeking careers in journalism, international organizations, and the public affairs and administrative aspects of labor, financial, and business organizations.

Please use the links at the right to explore the political science major, minor, and other opportunities in the Department.