B.A. Political Studies header-img

B.A. Political Studies

Overview

DEVELOPING WISDOM. ESTABLISHING CONVICTIONS. PRODUCING LEADERS.

Majoring in Political Studies at the Master’s University equips believers not only for productive careers in law, politics, or business but also for responsible citizenship. Through a biblical framework, professors teach small classes on the theory and philosophy of civilizations. This major also allows students the opportunity to participate in a semester-long internship in Washington D.C. allowing them a front-row seat to the inner workings of the government and opportunities for networking. Because justice, law, and government originate with God, it is best to study God’s purpose for those institutions at an institution where the Bible is preached without shame or compromise.

The Department of History & Political Studies acknowledges that God is sovereign in human affairs of the past, present, and future. With that foundational truth, students are aided in developing Christian philosophies of history and politics as parts of an overarching biblically-based worldview.

When pursuing a Political Studies degree from our Christian university, students choose from three available emphases: American Politics, Constitutional Law, or Political Theory.

  • • Graduates have been accepted into 13 of the top 20 law schools, including 7 of the top 10
  • • Small class sizes allow for close teacher-student mentorship and a high level of scholarship.
  • • All class material is evaluated within a biblical framework, and all faculty have a shared commitment to the doctrinal statement.
  • • Semester-long internship in Washington D.C. and Career Services equip students in real-time with experience and skills which employers demand, where alumni report highly competitive salaries and career opportunities.
  • • Political Studies is a combination of both Political Science and Philosophy, providing the best-recognized preparation for law school

Political Studies graduates have been accepted to the following Law Schools: Harvard University, University of Chicago, New York University, University of Pennsylvania, Duke University, University of Michigan, Northwestern University, Cornell University, Georgetown University, Vanderbilt University, UCLA, USC, University of Notre Dame, University of Iowa, Indiana University, Pepperdine University, University of Oregon, University of the Pacific (McGeorge), Texas A&M University, and Thomas Jefferson School of Law.

Emphases

Three emphases are offered: American Politics, Constitutional Law, and Political Theory. Students may also major in Business to take the Pre-Law emphasis. To graduate, students are required to complete 40 General Education units, 21 Bible, 21 Major Core Courses, and 21 Emphasis/Electives.

Sample Courses

View Sample 4-Year Plan

U.S. Constitutional History

POL343

A broad survey of U.S. Constitutional history beginning with the influences of English Common Law and colonial constitutional practices to the present Roberts Court. Case law will be integrated within the historical contexts so that students will understand the interrelatedness between American history and jurisprudence.

The Christian & Politics

POL354

A biblical approach to Christian citizenship and activity. Emphasis on general and specific scriptural principles and their application to contemporary issues, including an introduction to various viewpoints.

Political Parties & Elections

POL325

American political parties: their history, structure, operation, and impact on the American electoral process.

Law & Public Policy

POL424

An examination of American political culture and its dynamics through selected current issues in law with an emphasis on their effect on policy formation and implementation.

Minors in addition to Biblical Studies

15-27 Units

Most students will complete a minor in Biblical Studies by default by completing the 24 units in their GE classes and upper-division requirements across 4 years at TMU. In addition to their major, students can also complete a minor in any of these programs by completing the required 15-27 units, depending on the minor: Accounting, Biblical Studies, Biology, Business Administration, Communication, Computer Science, Education, English, History, Global Studies, Kinesiology & Physical Education, Mathematics, Music, and/or Political Studies.

Prof Publications

Rooted in an unwavering devotion to Jesus Christ and the inerrant Word of God, our world-class faculty and dedicated administration prepare each student's heart and mind for a life of eternal influence.

John MacArthur

Next Steps: Applying

Since 1927, the mission of The Master’s University is to empower students for a life of enduring commitment to Christ, biblical fidelity, moral integrity, intellectual growth, and lasting contribution to the Kingdom of God worldwide.

Requirements:

  • Required statement of faith and pastoral recommendation
  • 3.6 GPA average for new applications
Study & Serve Abroad - IBEX

Study & Serve Abroad - IBEX

Study the Bible for a full semester in the land where the Bible was written.

GO! Global Outreach

GO! Global Outreach

Opportunities for students to serve overseas through short-term mission trips. We connect them with our Missionary Alumni and other agencies.

Similar Programs

Thinking Biblically About Politics (Series Length: 46:33)

Thinking Biblically About Politics (Series Length: 46:33)

Read More
Ep. 2: Dr. Gregg Frazer Weighs In on Whether Big Tech Has Too Much Power

Ep. 2: Dr. Gregg Frazer Weighs In on Whether Big Tech Has Too Much Power

Read More
Why Political Studies?

Why Political Studies?

Read More
Following Christ in the Throes of an Election

Following Christ in the Throes of an Election

Read More
The Subversion in Social Justice, Silence and Tolerance

The Subversion in Social Justice, Silence and Tolerance

Read More
Restoring a President's Day

Restoring a President's Day

Read More
Students Travel to State Capitol to Confront Cal Grant Cut

Students Travel to State Capitol to Confront Cal Grant Cut

Read More
Foreign Policy: Understanding a World in Crisis

Foreign Policy: Understanding a World in Crisis

Read More
One Nation Under God

One Nation Under God

Read More
Request Info