Political Science | College of Liberal Arts and Sciences

Political Science students sitting on lawn of Pentacrest in front of Schaeffer Hall studying

Preparing tomorrow's leaders

A versatile set of skills to apply to a wide range of careers in politics, government, and beyond.

Why Iowa?

A degree in political science or international relations at Iowa is your start to a rewarding career that makes an impact in the world.

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Build a foundation

A degree in political science or international relations from the University of Iowa is your start to an enjoyable and rewarding career that makes a difference in people’s lives.

Build a foundation

students in political science class at MacBride

Expand your horizons

Learn by doing–work closely with faculty to develop critical skills in research and teaching.

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Learn from experts

Learn from the best–our faculty are experienced leaders and committed teachers and researchers.

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See yourself here

At Iowa, you’ll sharpen your research expertise and develop the leadership skills to influence policy, institutions, and democratic practice.

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"The University of Iowa has prepared me for my future by teaching me what professionalism is and a way to navigate life and have a balance between work life, school, and friendships."

– Andrea Longstreet, political science major

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Build knowledge. Conduct research. Create new work. Stand out among your peers. You're going places, and it all starts here.

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~ 9,000

Alumni

20 +

Graduate students

2025 data

400 +

Political science majors

2025 data

70 +

International relations majors

2025 data

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Shop for University of Iowa Department of Political Science swag and merch in our online store.

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News and announcements

Brian Lai selected for the 2026 Hubbard-Walder Award

Wednesday, April 1, 2026

Office of the Executive Vice President and Provost

Brian Lai is an associate professor of Political Science who was selected for the 2026 Hubbard-Walder Award.

Hawkeye Poll Examines Americans' Trust in News from Traditional and Social Media Sources

Friday, March 27, 2026

Hawkeye Poll

Results from a recent University of Iowa Hawkeye Poll on Americans' Trust in News from Traditional and Social Media Sources.

Hawkeye Poll Examines How Americans Use Artificial Intelligence in the Digital Age

Tuesday, March 3, 2026

Hawkeye Poll

Results from a recent University of Iowa Hawkeye Poll on How Americans Use Artificial Intelligence in the Digital Age.

Events

The Future of Democracy in Post-Election Bangladesh: A conversation with Dr. Rezwana Karim Snigdha

Thursday, April 9, 2026 5:00pm to 6:15pm

Virtual

Political transitions often bring both opportunity and uncertainty. On April 9, join the University of Iowa (UI) South Asian Studies Program, an International Programs affinity group, for the chance to examine those dynamics during a virtual conversation on the future of democracy in Bangladesh.

Trivia Night @ the Museum

Wednesday, April 15, 2026 6:00pm to 8:00pm

Old Capitol Museum

The very popular Trivia Night @ the Museum inside the historic Senate Chamber at the Old Capitol Museum is back!

Conflict and Resolution — An Obermann Wide Lens Event

Wednesday, May 6, 2026 4:00pm to 5:30pm

Iowa Memorial Union (IMU)

In a world shaped by tension, disagreement, and change, conflict surrounds us, from moments of personal friction to struggles within communities and across nations. It surfaces in our institutions, our relationships, and the stories we tell about ourselves and others. How do conflicts take shape and persist? How are they influenced by power, perspective, and history? Can conflict be generative? What forms might resolution take? How do we begin that process?

This Wide Lens event brings together...

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