Best Political Science Colleges in California
California, often referred to as the Golden State, is not just known for its golden beaches, tech giants, and film industry but also for its outstanding educational institutions. California offers some of the best political science programs for students passionate about the world of politics, governance, and public policy.
Stanford University
Information About Political Science Programs
Stanford’s political science department offers programs that delve into international relations, political theory, and American politics. Their faculty members are renowned for their research and global impact.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range
The annual cost is roughly $53,529, with an enrollment of around 16,000 students. The SAT range for admitted students typically falls between 1420-1570.
Pomona College
Information About Political Science Programs
Pomona College offers a comprehensive political science program focusing on critical thinking, global politics, and research skills.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range
The annual cost stands at about $52,780. Pomona enrolls roughly 1,700 students with an SAT range of 1410-1570.
University of California – Los Angeles (UCLA)
Information About Political Science Programs
UCLA’s political science department provides courses in American politics, international relations, comparative politics, and political theory.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range
In-state annual tuition is about $13,239. UCLA enrolls over 44,000 students, and the SAT range for admissions is typically 1330-1530.
University of Southern California (USC)
Information About Political Science Programs
USC boasts programs encompassing global politics, public policy, and political theory. The faculty members are renowned for their research and publications.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range
The average annual cost is approximately $58,195. USC has an enrollment of around 48,500 students. The SAT score range for admissions is 1350-1530.
University of California – Berkeley
Information About Political Science Programs
UC Berkeley’s political science program is renowned globally, offering courses in various areas, from international relations to public law and policy.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range
For in-state students, the annual tuition is around $14,253. UC Berkeley enrolls approximately 43,200 students. The typical SAT range is 1330-1530.
University of California – San Diego (UCSD)
Information About Political Science Programs
UCSD provides a comprehensive curriculum that covers international politics, political theory, and comparative politics.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range
The in-state annual tuition fee is approximately $14,451. UCSD has an enrollment of about 37,800 students. The SAT range is typically 1300-1510.
Pitzer College
Information About Political Science Programs
Pitzer’s political studies program focuses on global politics, environmental policy, and human rights.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range
The annual cost is around $56,018, with an enrollment of 1,100 students. The SAT range for admitted students is usually 1310-1480.
Scripps College
Information About Political Science Programs
Scripps offers a political science program that covers American politics, international relations, and political theory.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range
The annual cost stands at about $57,188. The enrollment is approximately 1,000 students, and the SAT score range is 1340-1500.
Claremont McKenna College
Information About Political Science Programs
This institution is renowned for its political science program, which emphasizes leadership, governance, and international relations.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range
The average annual cost is $56,475. Around 1,300 students enroll here, and the SAT range for accepted students is 1420-1560.
University of California – Davis (UC Davis)
Information About Political Science Programs
UC Davis offers an extensive political science program that includes courses on comparative politics, international relations, and public policy.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range
For in-state students, the annual cost is approximately $14,495. UC Davis enrolls around 38,300 students. The SAT score range for admissions is 1230-1480.
Best Political Science Colleges in Three Other States
Best Political Science Colleges in Oregon
Oregon State University, University of Oregon, and Reed College stand out for their excellent political science programs emphasizing theory and practical exposure.
Best Political Science Colleges in New York
Columbia University, New York University, and Cornell University are among the top institutions in New York, renowned for their world-class political science departments.
Best Political Science Colleges in Nevada
University of Nevada, Reno, and the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, are recognized for their political science programs that touch upon American politics, international relations, and policy-making.
How a High SAT Score Improves Chances of College Acceptance
A high SAT score can significantly enhance a student’s chance of acceptance to top-tier universities. Such scores are often seen as an indicator of a student’s academic capability and preparedness for rigorous college-level courses. Especially for competitive programs like political science at esteemed institutions, a high SAT score can help differentiate candidates, affirming the student’s dedication, aptitude, and potential for success in the program.
California’s rich tapestry of institutions, from large public universities to intimate liberal arts colleges, ensures that students interested in political science have varied and top-quality options. This state’s political diversity and global influence offer students a unique backdrop against which to study this dynamic field.
