The Department of Political Science, Law and International Studies is where you can gain the knowledge and skills to navigate today鈥檚 global landscape. Explore the ethics and structures that shape political systems and human behavior. Whether engaging in the justice system, local government or addressing global challenges at the UN, this department cultivates critical thinking, leadership and civic responsibility.
A political science degree helps you understand how people live, work and make policy together. You'll build essential knowledge in and around government and politics, from cooperation to conflict, and prepare for leadership in public policy and the community.
Studying law at the Pacific sets you up for success with exclusive programs that offer a direct path to a J.D. and hands-on professional preparation. Here鈥檚 what to explore:
The Pacific Legal Advantage program offers high-achieving students from any major a selective pre-law track with hands-on experience, mentorship and early exposure to the legal profession.
The pre-law minor is open to students in any major on Pacific's Stockton campus and offers an introduction to U.S. law and the workings of the courts. It's designed to provide valuable preparation for law school or other careers in the legal profession.
Pacific undergraduates who qualify can also secure automatic admission to McGeorge School of Law through the McGeorge Promise. This pathway waives the LSAT requirement for students with a 3.8 GPA and a clear record, streamlining the path to a JD.
Pacific鈥檚 international relations degree opens the door to global perspectives through immersive, interdisciplinary learning. You鈥檒l gain the tools to excel in industry, government, non-profits, and education. This degree is often paired with existing studies or with second majors or minors and is enriched by transformative study abroad experiences.
Pacific offers a BA in Political Science with a concentration in criminal justice, which prepares you for careers in reform, law, government and public service. Career paths include policy analysis, law, forensics, corrections, wildlife enforcement, victim advocacy and social work.
Learn more about criminal justice
The dual BA/Master of Public Policy (MPP) degree at McGeorge School of Law prepares students to shape meaningful change through policy analysis, design and implementation. As a full-time student, you can finish the program in just two years (four years as a part-time student).
Washington Semester Internship Program
Spend a semester in Washington, D.C. through the Washington Semester program, where classes, seminars and internships immerse you in the nation鈥檚 capital. Gain hands-on experience at government agencies, political organizations, media outlets, embassies and nonprofits while building connections that shape your future.
Professor Keith Smith explains what sets Pacific鈥檚 Bachelor of Arts in Political Science/Master鈥檚 in Public Policy program apart, from its accelerated pathway to our prime campus locations in Stockton, the San Joaquin County seat and Sacramento, California鈥檚 state capital.
100 Wendell Phillips Center
3601 Pacific Avenue
Stockton, CA 95211
