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College of Social Sciences and Public Policy
Engaging Today's World, Producing Tomorrow's Leaders, Since 1973
Learn more about how the Future is Made in Bellamy
Welcome to the Department of Political Science
We are nationally ranked with over 1,300 majors, offering courses in American Politics, International Relations, Comparative Politics, and Public Policy. Learn more about our undergraduate majors here!
Meet the FSU Political Science Job Candidates!
Learn more about our graduating Ph.D. Candidates and their future aspirations.
Interested in our Masters of Applied American Politics & Policy (MAAPP) program?
MAAPP is a top national master’s program providing practical career training in an intellectually challenging environment for those passionate about the political process. Established in 2001, MAAPP has over 500 graduates who hold prominent positions in Florida and national politics.
Give back to the department
Our department relies on the generous support of alumni and friends to provide the best learning and research environment for our students and faculty. Gifts to the Department of Political Science’s General Development Fund support a variety of student, faculty, and outreach activities and are crucial to our department’s teaching and research mission. Thank you for your generous and continued support!
Represent the Garnet and Gold at the Florida Capitol
Florida State University students can gain meaningful experience at the Capitol through the FSU Legislative Internship Program. Together, the Governmental Relations Office and the Political Science Department secure internship placements and conduct training workshops to ensure these students are prepared for their roles as legislative interns.
Join the Research Intensive Bachelor's Certificate Program
The Research Intensive Bachelor’s Certificate (RIBC) Program in Political Science is a small-group educational experience for students who wish to gain high-caliber research skills and practical experience working in an academic research environment. Students must complete 12 hours of research-oriented classes and internships to earn the Research Intensive Program Certificate.
Nationally Ranked | Award Winning Faculty | Experiential Learning
Our department offers baccalaureate and graduate instruction in American Politics, International Relations, Comparative Politics, and Public Policy. In addition, our Applied Master’s degree program in American Politics and Policy (MAAPP) allows for professional training towards careers in political campaigning, fundraising, lobbying, legislative affairs, and active participation within all levels of government.
The award-winning faculty of the Department of Political Science frequently publishes articles in the top journals of the discipline, and provides rigorous instruction in many fields of political expertise. Our graduate students undertaking doctoral research generally take positions at research universities, liberal arts teaching colleges, and research and policy organizations in the public and private sector.
Our Programs and Resources
In New Book, Professor Ryan Owens Explores the Impact of Cognitive Aging on Federal Judges
December 5, 2024
Professor of Political Science and Director of the Florida Institute for Governance and Civics, Ryan Owens, Ph.D., recently published a book that explores the impact of cognitive aging on federal judges. Dr. Owens co-authored Cognitive Aging and the Federal Circuit Courts: How Senescence Influences the Law an …
COSSPP Welcomes Ryan Sonntag as New Associate Director of Development
November 22, 2024
The College of Social Sciences and Public Policy is pleased to announce that Ryan Sonntag has joined our team as our new Associate Director of Development. …
COSSPP Celebrates Fall 2024 Graduates at Commencement Day Celebration
November 8, 2024
The College of Social Sciences and Public Policy invites our Fall 2024 graduates and their families and friends to join us for a come-and-go reception in Bellamy’s First Floor Atrium on the morning of Friday, December 13, from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m., the day of Commencement! …