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

"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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students in political science class at MacBride

~ 9,000

Alumni
Poli Sci classroom

20 +

Graduate students

2025 data

400 +

Political science majors

2025 data

Political Science class discussion

70 +

International relations majors

2025 data

Group of University of Iowa students.

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News and announcements

Thomas Knudsen and President Barbara Wilson at 2026 Finkbine Dinner

Political science student Thomas Knudsen honored at Finkbine Dinner

Wednesday, April 8, 2026
Thomas Knudsen, a political science student in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, was recognized at the Finkbine Dinner for his leadership, academic excellence, and impact through civic and campus engagement.
Brian Lai news

Brian Lai selected for the 2026 Hubbard-Walder Award

Wednesday, April 1, 2026
Brian Lai is an associate professor of Political Science who was selected for the 2026 Hubbard-Walder Award.
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Hawkeye Poll Examines Americans' Trust in News from Traditional and Social Media Sources

Friday, March 27, 2026
Results from a recent University of Iowa Hawkeye Poll on Americans' Trust in News from Traditional and Social Media Sources.
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Hawkeye Poll Examines How Americans Use Artificial Intelligence in the Digital Age

Tuesday, March 3, 2026
Results from a recent University of Iowa Hawkeye Poll on How Americans Use Artificial Intelligence in the Digital Age.
Sarah Guilfoyle

Sarah Guilfoyle selected for Dare to Discover Campaign

Thursday, February 12, 2026
Sarah Guilfoyle is an undergraduate student in Political Science who was selected for the Dare to Discover Campaign. Her banner can be seen throughout downtown Iowa City.
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Hawkeye Poll Examines American’s Perceptions of the Effects of Trump’s Executive Orders

Friday, January 30, 2026
Results from a recent University of Iowa Hawkeye Poll on American’s Perceptions of the Effects of Trump’s Executive Orders.

Brody DeBettignies selected for 2025-2026 Graduate Teaching Fellowship

Thursday, January 29, 2026
Brody DeBettignies is a PhD candidate in Political Science. He received his BA in Political Science and Religious Studies and an MA in Political Science from the University of Iowa.
Leila Assadi

Political Science student promotes international understanding through campus leadership

Wednesday, November 5, 2025
Leila Assadi, a UI undergraduate student double majoring in economics and political science with minors in international business and political risk analysis is the recipient of the 2025 Global Student Award, exemplifies what it means to be a globally minded Hawkeye.
LaSpisa-Chase

Chase LaSpisa selected for CSSI 2025-2026 Dissertation Completion Program

Thursday, October 30, 2025
PhD candidate Chase LaSpisa was selected for the Center for Social Science Innovation (CSSI) 2025-2026 Dissertation Completion Program (DCP).
Brenda Ramirez

Graduate spotlight: Brenda Ramirez

Wednesday, May 7, 2025
Brenda Ramirez became interested in working in politics during a high school internship with her state representative.

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