Department of Political Science

Political science is the empirical and theoretical study of systems of governance and power, political attitudes and behavior, and public policy and law, both abroad and in the United States. The Department of Political Science teaches students the critical thinking, analytical, and communicative skills needed for understanding how governments and politics function in contemporary and historical contexts. Alumni of the department work in fields related to government, public administration, business, law, and policy research and advocacy.

Major Courses

Faculty Highlights

Bowie & student publish on U.S. Supreme Court decision

Jennifer Bowie, professor of political science, along with Kaitlyn O'Leary, '23, published "Jones v. Hendrix on Habeas Corpus” in SCOTUS 2023 Major Decisions and Developments of the US Supreme Court.

Datta awarded at Colloquy

Monti Datta, associate professor of political science, received the 2025 Distinguished Educator Award from the University of Richmond at Colloquy.

Joireman awarded at Colloquy

Sandra Joireman, Weinstein Chair of International Studies, received the 2025 Distinguished Scholarship Award from the University of Richmond at Colloquy.

Pribble awarded at Colloquy

Jenny Pribble, professor of political science and global studies, received the 2025 Distinguished Scholarship Award from the University of Richmond at Colloquy.

Scholarship Repository Readership

The University of Richmond's Scholarship Repository shares faculty publications with a world-wide audience. The map below shows where articles from political science faculty are being read around the globe.

Feature Stories

UR Now: Student Experience

Diving into Richmond’s First-Year Seminars

Small classes, passionate professors, and skill-building exercises form the premise of this foundational program.

Senior Jack DeKorte standing by the U.S. House of Representatives seal

Prioritizing the public in public service

An internship in a congressional district office gives senior an appreciation for the complexities of governing.

UR Now: University News

Student curators reveal a new piece for the Harnett Museum of Art

A New York City art acquisition trip yields a new campus treasure — a photograph by artist Martine Gutierrez.

Student Scholars

University of Richmond Senior Devin Morgan Named Newman Civic Fellow for Commitment to Public Service and Community Engagement

Morgan, a political science major with a minor in environmental studies, has devoted a large part of his undergraduate experience to civic initiatives.