About the Program
The study of government spans the full range of political behavior and institutions, from the beliefs of ordinary citizens to relationships between nations. You develop awareness of the moral and ethical implications of political action. Courses in the program fall into one of political science's four broad subfields: American politics, comparative politics, international politics and political theory. Themes such as justice and representation, war and peace, race, ethnicity and gender and sexuality cut across multiple courses.
Path of Study
Rankings
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# 3Best College for Political Science VirginiaNiche 2025
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# 30Best College for Public Policy in the U.S.Niche 2025
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Top 20Top U.S. Undergraduate Institutions to Study International RelationsForeign Policy Magazine 2024
Applied Learning
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Courses
Choose from courses including Game Theory and Politics (GOVT 310), International Law (GOVT 326), The Presidency (GOVT 371) and Political Behavior (GOVT 374).*
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Research
Collaborate with faculty and the Global Research Institute on a wide variety of meaningful, multi-year research projects.
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Washington Center
Learn about government and network in the nation's capital. W&M's Washington Center hosts winter, summer and semester programs.
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Pre-Law Advising
Prepare for the law school application process through workshops for juniors and seniors. The Legal Scholars Program provides comprehensive support to low-income or first-generation students.
Hear from a Student
"I am in an international relations research lab that studies how the use of negative language and dehumanizing terms affects the reception of immigrants in European countries. I reached out to the professor to join the lab because I loved what they were doing. W&M professors are so easy to talk to, and the shared curiosity about modern-day problems leads to a collaborative atmosphere that benefits both the students and the faculty." — Matthew Rodenberg '25, government and philosophy double major, pre-law track from Williamsburg, Virginia
Outcomes
Government alumni hold leadership positions in government, corporations, nonprofit organizations, the legal profession and education, as well as other professional fields. The close relationships developed between students and faculty result in the continued involvement of our alumni in the department and with our current undergraduates.
Notable Alumni
Read these W&M news stories about a few of our accomplished graduates.
Talk to Us
Want to learn more? Our current students and faculty want to connect with you.
Department of Government
Contact Us
- Get an inside look: Contact a current government major
- Ask the faculty: Contact the Department of Government
Courses Disclaimer
*Courses listed are examples. Course availability changes each semester.
