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Political Science

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Major or Minor in

Political Science

Politics structure our society and inform our everyday choices. Linfield political science majors explore questions of power, inequality and justice and develop a dynamic skill set that enables them to adapt to a changing workplace. Political science is a close-knit department that challenges you to discover your own special talents and use them to make a positive difference in your life and in the lives of others.

Visit the Political Science Department

As a political science major at Linfield

you might take:

Introduction to American Politics

Grapple with questions about how our national government is supposed to work and how it does work. (POLS 201)

Great Political Thinkers

Machiavelli, Plato, and Baldwin will guide you to a richer comprehension of the world. (POLS 220)

January Term in Washington, D.C.

Learn how Washington works from the inside: visit key institutions, attend briefings with members of the media, and conduct a research project. (POLS 450)

Studying political science at Linfield

Beyond the classroom

  • Develop persuasive communication skills through public debates led by faculty mentors and experience student debaters.

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  • Internships provide invaluable hands-on experience and further develop your professional skills. Some companies where political science majors at Linfield have found internship opportunities include US Senator Merkley's office, US Rep Kurt Schrader's office and Beer Co-op in CapeTown, South Africa.

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  • Join the work-study student team in the Department of Political Science and help plan events that engage the whole campus community in thoughtful conversations on current issues.

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  • Participate in collaborative research projects with our expert faculty.

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  • Gain different global perspectives – social, cultural, political and economic – while studying abroad at one of Linfield's partner institutions.

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Request more information

Have questions about studying political science at Linfield? Reach out! We'd love to connect with you.

Portrait of Professor Patrick Cottrell
Patrick Cottrell
Professor and Department Chair
Walker Hall
503-883-2477
pcottre@linfield.edu