The Department of Political Science and Public Affairs at Western Carolina is a comprehensive department, offering an undergraduate major in political science, a focus in pre-law, a minor in International Studies, opportunities for students who also want to teach secondary school, and a graduate program in public affairs (MPA).

 We also partner with the Public Policy Institute and the Local Government Program Training Program, two excellent resources available through our programs to provide useful exposure that will round out your undergraduate, social sciences, or Master of Public Affairs (MPA) degree from Western Carolina. In addition, your degree in political science provides career opportunities in a variety of enterprises across the United States and around the globe.
 
 If you are an alumnus, please contact us—we’d love to hear from you.

If you’re considering political science as your major and would like more information, please contact Interim Department Head Chris Cooper. If you're considering the MPA program please contact MPA Director Roger Hartley.