The discipline is organized into four main areas of study, or subfields. The subfield of American Politics focuses on party politics, elections, the branches of government, state and local government, public policy, social movements, and other political and governmental issues in the United States. The subfield of comparative politics looks at similar issues in countries outside the United States, and tries to discern how differences in culture, levels of development, social structures, and forms of government influence the ways in which politics are conducted around the world. The subfield of international relations studies the relationships among states in the international system, and also looks at international institutions, transnational organizations, and the role of norms and law in international affairs. The subfield of political theory focuses on normative issues such as justice and legitimacy in politics, both through the study of the history of political thought and by seeking to make original contributions to thinking on classic problems.

A major in Political Science provides a good foundation for work or advanced study in many fields. As part of a liberal arts education that enhances skills in analytical reading, research, analysis, and writing, Political Science makes students good candidates for a job in almost any area, including business, finance, consulting, government work, the foreign service, and teaching. As a preparation for graduate education, Political Science is a good credential for those who plan to apply to law school, business school, schools of social work, schools of education, schools of international affairs -– and of course, to graduate programs in political science itself, or other social sciences.