Politics – sometimes engaging, sometimes exasperating – is the way people come together to govern collectively.

At UMaine’s Political Science department, you’ll learn from professors who do cutting-edge research and also care deeply about teaching and advising students. Some faculty focus on fundamental ideas about politics, going back thousands of years to contemporary times.  Others examine the operations of politics and government today in the U.S. and around the world.

Our faculty foster an open and stimulating intellectual atmosphere that promotes the free exchange of ideas in the classroom and beyond.  Our students and faculty come together to discuss political films, watch candidate debates, and talk about politics.

Our faculty are recognized internationally for their expertise and frequently share their views with the public through Maine, national, and international media.

And whether it’s an internship in Washington, DC, the Maine State Legislature, or involvement in the community through engaged policy research, our students learn outside of the classroom.  Our graduates follow varied career paths, with many practicing law, running non-profit organizations, and serving in and affecting government.

Learn more about majoring in political science and the opportunities and advantages of doing so at the University of Maine.