Student Experience
Hands-on politics, a building of our own and a community that shows up – discover what makes Political Science at UofL exceptional.
Political Science Student Life
Political science students are hard to miss at UofL. They punch above their weight in Student Government Association representation and lead campus organizations from Young Democrats and College Republicans to Model UN and Model EU. Days move between Ford Hall – our department's own building – and the city itself, where Louisville's nonprofits, courts and Metro government sit minutes from campus, ready to turn coursework into experience. The calendar has its traditions, too: the ice cream social outside Ford Hall every August (doubling as a voter registration drive) and Spring Fete on reading day, when the department celebrates its graduating seniors and grad students. Through it all, faculty who know your name keep the community close and the doors open.
Academic Opportunities
Beyond the Classroom
Politics is a team sport, and our students find their team fast. Here's how they plug in:
Pi Sigma Alpha Honor Society
The only national honor society for undergraduates in political science and government. Our chapter offers scholarships, officer positions, special events and the chance to publish your research in the Pi Sigma Alpha quarterly journal. Eligibility: political science majors with at least 60 credit hours and a 3.0 cumulative GPA.
United Nations Association / Model UN
Coordinated by department chair Dr. Tricia Gray, this program sends students to participate as delegates in a regional Model UN.
Campus leadership
Our students are highly active in Student Government Association, Young Democrats, College Republicans, Model EU and other student-led groups.
Research Opportunities
Our faculty's research concentrates in two broad fields – and students are invited into both. In American politics, faculty tackle key questions of contemporary U.S. democracy: political polarization, public opinion, conspiracy theories and misinformation, race and politics and constitutional law. In comparative politics, research spans the globe – Latin America, East Asia, South Asia, Africa, Russia and beyond – on themes from democratization and gender and political representation to foreign policy and international relations. The Center for Asian Democracy supports faculty and student research on democratization across Asia and connects the department to scholars worldwide.
My time in the Political Science Department has shaped both my character and career goals. I've learned to think critically, communicate effectively, and engage with complex issues. The coursework and mentorship have challenged me to grow as a leader and inspired me to pursue a life of public service with confidence and purpose.
Support Services
From Campus Leader to National Impact
Ready to follow in the footsteps of senators, Supreme Court justices and Kentucky Secretary of State Michael Adams? Explore Political Science at the University of Louisville — where Fulbright and Truman Scholars are made, pre-law preparation is strong, and graduates go on to shape policy, practice law, and lead organizations at every level of society.