Bachelor's Program in Political Science
Program ambassador
My name is Sinem and I started studying Political Science with a minor in Sociology in the fall semester 2023. If you have any questions about studying, I’ll be happy to answer them.
Why I chose this program
The program in Political Science is very versatile because it looks at a variety of topics. During my studies I mainly focus on finding explanations for political behavior (such as voting behavior or political attitudes), analyzing different political systems (for example party systems and forms of government) as well as understanding international relations. I establish theories and hypotheses—that is assumptions about the correlations I expect to discover. Then I try to validate these empirically, usually on the basis of survey data or data gathered over the course of several decades.
If you want to know why some people tend to vote for populist parties, why a world with nuclear weapons is(n’t) a safe world, and why people in the USA show very different voting behaviors, the program in Political Science is just the thing for you.
Studying at the University of Mannheim
What's special about the program?
The classes in Political Science are relatively small. Therefore, courses have a good student-to-teacher ratio, which makes for a pleasant and supportive learning environment. At the University of Mannheim, we receive a first-class education in statistics, acquiring knowledge we would not gain at other universities. The teachers are leading international political scientists and therefore ensure that the courses are of excellent quality. If you plan to spend a semester abroad, you get to choose from a list of partner universities all around the world. Apart from the subject-specific advantages, we also benefit from the great support the dean's office provides. The contact persons there are ready to help you with any matters concerning your program, a semester abroad, and internship opportunities. That is why the social sciences at the University of Mannheim are at the very top of the prestigious CHE ranking. As there are several social research institutes in Mannheim, research and teaching are closely linked. That way we benefit from both the practical relevance of our program and the plenty opportunities we get for applying our knowledge as research assistants or interns.
Extracurricular activities
As a student in Mannheim you will also be able to enjoy a rich student life: from the wide-ranging sports program to culture and music to the legendary open air Schneckenhof parties taking place every Thursday during the summer months. If you would like to do voluntary work, you can join one or more of over 50 student organizations, political student groups, and the departmental student committee.
After graduation
Further study
Of course you can also do a master's, for example the University of Mannheim’s program in Political Science, which is exclusively taught in English. With a master’s degree, you can go on to pursue a doctorate and start an academic career.
Career opportunities
After graduation we have plenty career opportunities. Many political scientists go into market and opinion research, public relations or journalism. Graduates may also enter the worlds of international organizations and associations, public administrations, and consultancies. The internship office and the internship database support students in the search for internships and entry positions on the job market.
What you need to know
Competences
Mathematics and English: Thinking about these two subjects shouldn’t make your hair stand on end. As the focus is on statistics, it is useful to have a basic understanding of mathematics—but don’t worry, it’s not rocket science. You should also be able to read and understand English texts because around 90 percent of the literature is in English and, as the university is very international, some courses are held in English.
Endless reading! Throughout your studies, you will have to read a great number of texts. Reading should therefore bring you (at least some) joy.
Clichés
Political scientists discuss a lot. This cliché is quite right. As the classes are small we get many opportunities to discuss politics. If you like participating in debates, the wide range of seminars and the small share of lectures is perfect for you. Only teacher-centered teaching? Not here!
Further information
Do you want to learn more about the program in Political Science at the University of Mannheim?
Then have a look at the program descriptions:
Would you like to start your studies at the University of Mannheim?
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