Political Science Major
Political Science at Westmont: think deeply and critically about political life
The Department of Political Science invites students to study politics in the broader
context of the Christian liberal arts. At Westmont, students of political science
acquire core competencies in the theory and practice of politics across the discipline,
including the subfields of political theory, international relations, and American
politics. Throughout the major, students are challenged to think, read, and write
broadly and well on topics such as democracy, justice, and war. Beyond this, we seek
to cultivate citizens and scholars whose understanding and affections reflect Christian
theology and practice, who are attuned to interconnections with other disciplines,
and who have a posture to work faithfully for justice and the common good in a world
characterized by political, social, cultural, religious, and economic pluralism.
A place in which faithfulness can be lived out.
Alumni Stories
Tyler Castle ’12, earned a bachelor’s degree in political science and—most importantly—a Spring Sing title while at Westmont. A former John Jay Institute fellow and intern for Rep. Bill Huizenga (R-MI), he began as a values and capitalism intern at the American Enterprise Institute (AEI), a public policy research organization in Washington, D.C., and was later promoted to director of academic programs at AEI.
David Dry ’14, a political science graduate, has built a career at the intersection of politics and public policy. After serving as a legislative assistant and campaign staffer on Capitol Hill, he earned a master’s degree in public policy from Pepperdine University. He now helps clients navigate legislation at the local, state, and federal levels.
Olivia Reichwald ’21, named Outstanding Graduate in Political Science at Westmont, is now pursuing her Juris Doctor at Harvard Law School.
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Experiential Learning Opportunities
Internships: All Political Science majors complete an internship course, with opportunities at the local, state, and federal levels and across public and private sectors. Students have interned with non-profits, law offices, think tanks, members of Congress—even the White House.
Class Simulations: Upper-division courses on Congress, Constitutional Law, and International Organizations and Law include significant simulation components. You might play the part of a congressional party whip trying to reform health care; or issue a decision on religious freedom as the chief justice of the U.S. Supreme Court in a mock trial; or you might travel to New York City as part of our award-winning Model United Nations delegation.
Off-Campus Programs: Political science majors expand their global education through a range of off-campus opportunities, including semester-long programs in Mexico, Europe, and beyond, plus a variety of Mayterm offerings.
Sample Schedule
Lower-Division Courses
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Upper-Division Courses
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Lower-Division Courses
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Upper-Division Courses
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Lower-Division Courses
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Upper-Division Courses
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Lower-Division Courses
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Upper-Division Courses
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Westmont at the NMUN in New York City 2026
Eighteen students from the POL 112: International Organizations and Law course traveled to New York City to represent Slovakia at the National Model United Nations conference, joining nearly 3,000 peers from around the world. Throughout the week, students engaged complex global issues—from nuclear weapons to sustainable transportation, demonstrating thoughtful collaboration, diplomacy, and the strength of their liberal arts education.
Their preparation and professionalism stood out, with several delegates receiving recognition from peers for their character and effectiveness in committee sessions. Four students, Chaz Keith, Samson Rakhshani, Emily Lindblad, and Rahel Kebede earned awards for outstanding position papers, highlighting their academic excellence. The trip also included a visit to the United Nations General Assembly Hall and time exploring New York City, making for a memorable and impactful learning experience.
You Just Have to See it for Yourself
Envision your future at Westmont’s stunning campus, where the environment fuels creativity and personal growth.