Political Science
October 28, 2025 2025-11-19 0:14Political Science
Political Science at Rocky Mountain College
Rocky Mountain College’s Political Science program prepares you to think deeply and critically about the world around you. Here, you’ll study government, public policy, and political theory while honing research, argumentation, and communication skills that open doors to a broad range of careers and advanced study.
Our students and faculty are passionate about asking big questions—about justice, power, representation, conflict, and change. Small classes foster debate, careful reading, and discussion, whether you’re examining local politics in Montana or the complexities of global terrorism and revolution. You’ll graduate a more informed citizen and a more adaptable, analytical thinker.
Why Choose Political Science at Rocky
Studying political science at RMC means more than memorizing institutions or names; it’s about understanding how change happens and what makes societies thrive—or struggle. Our flexible program gives you access to inspiring faculty, personalized mentorship, and plenty of room to double major or minor.
You’ll also have opportunities for internships, independent research, or study away experiences that give context to your classroom learning.Your courses emphasize close reading, nuanced analysis, and the ability to write and speak persuasively. These skills translate to leadership in the public or private sector, nonprofit organizations, law, government, and beyond.
$73K
average annual pay for Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science in Montana according to ZipRecruiter
Major and Minor Learning Outcomes
Political Science majors and minors will:
- Analyze and critically evaluate major political issues and historical events
- Demonstrate familiarity with landmark theories, thinkers, and traditions in the field
- Develop independent, research-driven arguments on complex political questions
- Ask meaningful, significant historical questions
- Use and synthesize evidence from a variety of scholarly sources
- Communicate effectively in writing and oral presentation
99%
of students receive scholarships or grants
88%
of students are placed in internships
Coursework and Requirements
As a political science major, you’ll study foundational topics in political science, American government, and the history of political and social thought. From there, you’ll choose coursework in American, European, and world history, plus advanced seminars in subjects such as global terrorism, revolution, or modernity.
You’ll have freedom to focus on what most excites you—domestic or international politics, theory, public policy, or issues like Indigenous resistance, contemporary movements, or environmental change. Elective hours let you pursue related fields in history, law, or social research.
Information
Majors:
Political Science
Minors:
Political Science
Political Science (Government Education)
Pre-Law
Faculty
Timothy Lehman, Ph.D.
Laura Vinson, PhD
Jenifer Parks, Ph.D.
- Contact
- Call: (406) 657-1026
- Text: (406) 606-6440
- Email: admissions@rocky.edu
Course highlights include:
Courses like Mass Movements and Global Terrorism challenge you to analyze threats and ideologies shaping the modern world. In Revolutions and Revolutionaries, you’ll study why and how political upheavals happen, and what makes them succeed or fail.
The Crisis of Modernity and History of Political and Social Thought lead you through the biggest theoretical debates of the last centuries. Meanwhile, classes like American National, State, and Local Government and Introduction to Political Science build a practical foundation for understanding civic life, leadership, and institutions.
Explore Areas in Political Science
Bachelor of Arts in Political Science
Deepen your understanding of politics, government, and power—at local, national, and global levels. This major prepares you to think critically about institutions and movements, analyze primary and secondary sources, and communicate insightfully about political change.
Career Pathways:
Journalism/media, Research and teaching, Political consulting or campaign work Graduate study in politics, history, public policy, or international affairs
Minor in Political Science
Sharpen your analytical and communication skills for any career by adding a Political Science minor. You’ll interpret events, evaluate evidence, and argue persuasively—plus gain a deeper perspective on public issues.
Pair With:
History: for research, policy, or education roles
Psychology or Sociology: for careers in public service, advocacy, or consulting
Business or Economics: for leadership or regulatory work
Communication Studies: for media, law, or public relations pathways
Minor in Political Science (Government) Education
This minor is for students planning to teach government or civics at the secondary level. You’ll study foundational political science topics, relevant electives, and complete education courses for grades 5–12 licensure.
Career Pathways: Middle or high school government/social studies teacher, Civic education coordinator
Minor in Pre-Law
A focused path for students planning to attend law school. Coursework is built around argumentation, analysis, logic, and understanding of legal systems and political institutions. This minor complements majors in Psychology, Education, Business, Political Science, and more.
Career & Graduate School Ready
RMC political science graduates are prepared for impactful careers in law, public policy, government service, nonprofit leadership, teaching, journalism, and consulting. Alumni have found success in law school, graduate programs, political consulting, government bureaus, advocacy organizations, and community development work.
Field Experience and Mentorship
Strong student-faculty relationships mean you’ll get personalized guidance for internships, research, or leadership opportunities. Classes encourage open dialogue and debate, and you’ll develop the confidence to lead, persuade, and create change. Faculty mentors help you carve out a path to your chosen profession—whether that’s working in government, attending law school, or engaging in community activism.
Information
Majors:
Political Science
Minors:
Political Science
Political Science (Government Education)
Pre-Law
Faculty
Timothy Lehman, Ph.D.
Laura Vinson, PhD
Jenifer Parks, Ph.D.
- Contact
- Call: (406) 657-1026
- Text: (406) 606-6440
- Email: admissions@rocky.edu
Connect and Learn More
Ready to inspire the next generation?
