Political Science

B.A. Degree with a major in Political Science

Shape the Future. Lead the Change. Study Political Science at UMF

UMF’s Political Science program offers chances to connect with political leaders and community organizations at national, state, and regional levels.

The Political Science program at UMF helps students 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.

Questions? Ask a Professor

Save more than $5,500 per year in tuition.

Through the NEBHE Tuition Break program, students from Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont receive a $5,670 tuition discount on all UMF degree programs.

Learn More

Guest Lecturers

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.

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.

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.

Here’s where some of our students have recently interned:

• U.S. Sen. Angus King, Washington DC
• U.S. Sen. Susan Collins, Washington DC
• American Bar Assoc, Washington, DC: Civil Rights & Social Justice section
• Maine GOP Headquarters, Bangor
• Maine Indigent Defense Center, Portland
• 7 Lakes Alliance, Belgrade Lakes
• Sanders, Hanstein, Carey & Perry Law Office, Farmington
• MaineHealth, Portland
• The Borgen Project, Tacom, WA
• Maine People’s Alliance, Portland
• Ranked Choice Voting Resource Center, NC
• Town of Union, Maine

Senator Angus King posing for a picture with a student

Law School & Beyond

Graduates of our Political Science program often go on to attend some of the finest law schools in the country. Many others go on to graduate school in fields such as government, political science, international relations, and economics.

Students who major in Political Science at Farmington are job-ready for a range of careers. Some pursue a career in politics, working in Augusta or Washington, D.C., in government or for elected officials. Some have gone on to become elected officials themselves. Others become journalists, work for non-governmental organizations, or pursue a career in business or with non-profit organizations.

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

Contact Us to Get Started!

Office of Admissions
246 Main Street
Farmington, Maine USA 04938-1994

Apply Now! Email Admissions Call Us