Political Science

B.A. Degree with a major in Political Science

Shape the Future. Lead the Change.

The University of Maine at Farmington (UMF) Political Science program offers chances to connect with political leaders and community organizations at national, state, and regional levels. Students will understand governance, politics, and social science methods while fostering respect for diverse political and cultural perspectives. It encourages critical thinking and aims to develop citizen scholars who are independent thinkers motivated to engage respectfully with different opinions.

Students in the program are active campus leaders, organizing events, attending conferences, and participating in educational trips to Washington, D.C. The program emphasizes personalized guidance, with faculty working closely with each student to tailor their education based on individual interests, strengths, and career goals.

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Governor Janet Mills posing for a picture holding a UMF beaver sticker
Governor Janet Mills posing for a picture holding a UMF beaver sticker

What You’ll Learn

At UMF, you’ll explore how governments, institutions, and societies function while developing skills to analyze issues, conduct research, and communicate effectively.

You’ll develop skills in:

  • Political research and analysis
  • Understanding government and public policy
  • Evaluating evidence and arguments
  • Writing, discussion, and presentation
  • Engaging with diverse perspectives

The guests who come to our Political Science classes range from State legislators and local officials to noted attorneys, to U.S. Senators and Congresspeople, from across the political spectrum. You’ll get to meet these public servants, ask probing questions, and make great contacts. These valuable connections have helped our students go on to run for school boards, state legislature, and other offices.

Explore Courses and Requirements

Why Choose UMF?

An affordable, personalized education that helps you find your path and achieve your goals.

Small Classes, Big Opportunities

Learn in a close-knit community where small classes and personalized mentorship help you grow academically, personally, and professionally.
Student Success

Affordability & Quality

Earn a high-quality liberal arts education at one of the most affordable public universities in the Northeast.
Costs & Financial Aid

Career Readiness

Graduate ready for what’s next through internships, field experiences, mentorship, and hands-on learning that connect classroom knowledge with real-world experience.
Career Success
Senator Angus King posing for a picture with a student

Careers & Further Study

A Political Science degree from UMF prepares you for careers in government, law, public policy, nonprofit organizations, journalism, business, and more. Graduates also pursue law school and graduate programs in fields such as government, political science, international relations, and economics.

UMF’s Pre-Law Program helps students build the critical thinking, writing, research, and communication skills needed for success in law school and beyond. Or the 3+3 Accelerated Pre-Law Program allows qualified students to earn a bachelor’s degree from UMF and a law degree from the University of Maine School of Law in six years instead of seven.

Pre-Law 3+3 Pre-Law Pathway

Internship & Research Opportunities

At UMF, Political Science students gain real-world experience through internships with political parties, state government, and Congress, building valuable skills and connections. Alumni have landed impressive roles, including positions at the Nuclear Regulatory Commission and the White House.

Expand Your Skills with a Minor

A Political Science minor allows students from any major to explore government, politics, public policy, and the systems that shape our society while developing valuable research, analytical, and communication skills.

Students majoring in Political Science can also pair their degree with complementary minor options such as Legal Studies, History, International and Global Studies, Economics, and Anthropology to broaden their expertise and career preparation.

Explore Minor Programs
I had the pleasure to intern in the office of U.S. Senator Angus King this spring. Working with constituents, being a part of crafting legislation, and having the opportunity to work alongside Senator King was an amazing experience. I was brought onto the Senator’s healthcare team and learned so many valuable skills which I’ll continue to benefit from throughout my journey.
Tiana James
Political Science major
Two students smiling in front of a presentation screen that says

Maine Policy Scholars

Each year, the Maine Policy Scholars Program selects one student from each Maine campus for a yearlong research experience on a pressing state policy issue. Working with faculty and policy experts, Scholars develop research-driven recommendations, culminating in an executive summary and presentation. Participants receive a $5,000 scholarship and up to $1,000 in research support.

2025–2026 Scholar Carolyn Kinney (Political Science & Pre-Med) presented her policy recommendations on how the state can help more small businesses provide health insurance to their employees today as part of Symposium Day.

2026–2027 Scholar Trinity Slate (Anthropology & Political Science) will be focusing on Maine policy toward improving rural transportation options.

Learn from Faculty Across the Social Sciences

At UMF, you’ll dive deep into Political Science while also taking classes with professors in related social science fields like anthropology, geography, and history — giving you a broader understanding of the world around you.
Questions? Ask a Professor!
James Melcher
James Melcher

Professor of Political Science

About James
Linda Beck
Linda Beck

Professor of Political Science

About Linda
Scott Erb
Scott Erb

Professor of Political Science

About Scott
Michael Schoeppner
Michael Schoeppner

Associate Professor of History,

About Michael
Matthew McCourt
Matthew McCourt

Associate Professor of Geography

About Matthew
Brad Dearden
Brad Dearden

Associate Professor of Geography and Environmental Planning

About Brad
Lucas Kellett
Lucas Kellett

Associate Professor of Anthropology

About Lucas
Nicole Coffey Kellett
Nicole Coffey Kellett

Professor of Anthropology

About Nicole

Contact Us to Get Started!

Office of Admissions
246 Main Street
Farmington, Maine USA 04938
umfadmit@maine.edu
207.778.7050
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