Political Science at Amherst College promotes humanistic perspectives, critical thinking, and scientific scales as essential tools for understanding politics.
Most Political Science courses do not have prerequisites. Political science courses address topics such as power, justice, democracy and authoritarianism, social movements, law and society, rights, political economy, parties, conflict, violence and war, international cooperation, migration, political development and change, race and ethnic politics, institutions, political behavior and identity. We welcome students from across the college who are interested in these issues.
Students considering majoring in Political Science should look at the About the Major page and are encouraged to speak with the department chair. We do not require a single course prior to declaring a Political Science Major, though we encourage students to take three courses in the Department before declaring.