The UMass Amherst Political Science major prepares students like you to become members of a reflective and active citizenry capable of sharing power and responsibility in a contemporary democracy. Our majors study political life at scales from the local to the global and in a variety of contexts, for example in elections, social movements, power relations, markets, political culture, ideas, and war.
Every semester, we offer dozens of courses taught by our diverse, award-winning faculty. Our flexible curriculum allows you to choose courses based on your interests, and classes include topics such as American politics, law and policy, international relations, political theory, and politics in other parts of the world. We offer the opportunity for students to engage with each other and our faculty in smaller upper-level seminars of 25-30 students restricted to our majors, creating a liberal arts environment within a big flagship research institution.
Prospective Student Virtual Drop-In Hours with Regine Spector, Undergraduate Program Director
No appointment necessary; just use this Drop-In Hours Zoom Link.
Mondays from 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm EST on the following dates:
- March 30, 2026
- April 6, 2026
- April 13, 2026
- April 20, 2026
- April 27, 2026
Regine Spector, Undergraduate Program Director is also available to set up individual meetings by emailing @email.
Adrian Grace, Director of Undergraduate Advising is available for individual meetings (phone, Zoom, or in-person) by emailing @email. Please give 2-3 days advance notice.
Political Science Major