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Political Science & International Studies Department
It takes sharp thinkers, skillful negotiators, and competent data analysts to navigate today’s globalized yet fractured political landscape. The Political Science Department will give you the foundation to succeed in careers in local, state, and national government, law, foreign affairs, the media, and the business or nonprofit worlds. We also provide advising and preparatory materials for those seeking careers in the legal profession.
Majors
Political Science
Enhance your learning with minors available in Political Science, International Studies or Legal Studies.
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Minors
Government impacts every career field—so why not understand how it works? This flexible minor starts with American Government and lets you tailor courses to your interests, whether that’s law, diplomacy, media, or public service.
Take your learning beyond the classroom with study abroad or a semester in Washington, D.C. Plus, with only 15 credit hours, it easily fits into your four-year plan.
Gain a global perspective with this minor that explores world events, international relations, and cultural influences. Taught by expert faculty, including Fulbright Scholars, this program pairs well with political science, international business, foreign language, and more.
With just 18 credit hours, it’s an easy way to expand your career potential in an increasingly connected world.
Thinking about law school? This minor builds the analytical and communication skills you’ll need—without making you memorize laws. Instead, you’ll learn how to think critically about legal principles, solve problems, and navigate real-world legal challenges.
Whether you pursue law, graduate studies, or another professional field, these skills will set you apart.
Departmental Resources
United States Senate & Congress
- Senator Dick Durbin (D – Illinois)
Senator Durbin offers an internship program for students of all majors, undergraduate, graduate, and law students who are interested in experiencing the workings of a Senator’s office. - Congressman Darin LaHood (R. 18th)
Congressman LaHood of the 18th congressional district has been very generous in offering excellent internship opportunities for our students and welcomes applications. - Congressman Eric Sorensen (D. 17th)
Interns are sought to work in Rep. Eric Sorensen’s offices in Washington, D.C., and across the 17th District. As you know, internships are a great opportunity for students to get hands-on experience and gain important work skills. Interns in the offices will assist with casework, research legislation and constituent correspondence, among other tasks. Our students have interned with Rep Sorensen and have benefited greatly.
Illinois General Assembly
- State Senator Dave Koehler (D. 46th)
Intern responsibilities vary greatly and range from assisting with administrative and office duties to working with the press, legislative or constituent services staff. Specific tasks might include assisting with phones, researching an issue, drafting a letter, assisting with office operations (e.g., faxing, filing, copying, data entry or mailing), clipping newspapers or attending meeting or events. Interns are given specific areas of responsibility and as broad a range of experiences as possible; they are expected to assist with all office operations as needed. - State Senator Win Stoller (R. 37th)
- State Representative Jehan Gordon-Booth (D. 92nd)
State and Local Government Agencies
- Illinois Department of Correction
- Peoria County Election Commission
This organization is always looking for college students to intern or serve as election judges. Apply Now. - Peoria County Juvenile Court Services
Peoria County Juvenile Probation has a long history of accepting Bradley student interns. - Peoria Juvenile Detention Center
The Peoria Juvenile Detention Center has long provided useful and meaningful internships for our students. Apply Now. - Peoria Police Department
The City of Peoria Police Department has a regular and formalized internship program. Apply Now. - Tazewell County Probation and Court Services
Tazewell County is a progressive county with regard to probation programming. It offers a regular internship program that has been of great benefit to our students.
Federal Government Agencies
- FBI Honors Internship Program
While exploring the FBI’s exciting career options, students will work side-by-side with FBI employees at one of the bureau’s offices across the country. - Pathways Internship Program
The Pathways Internship program provides year-round paid work in a variety of federal agencies for current degree-seeking undergraduate, and graduate students. Interns may work during the summer, fall, spring or year-round and are eligible for non-competitive conversion upon program completion. - National Security Agency
The NSA’s “Intelligence Analysis Summer Program” and “Civil Liberties, Privacy and Transparency Summer Intern Program” provide excellent opportunities for undergraduates with interest in international relations to gain experience and improve their chances of pursuing an intelligence career after graduation. - US Department of State Internship Program
This paid student internship gives participants a coveted inside look at diplomacy in action, and the range of careers and responsibilities found in the Foreign Service and Civil Service. You’ll gain valuable work experience that you can apply to virtually every endeavor — whether you work in government or the private sector. - US Foreign Service Internship Program
You can experience diplomacy firsthand as a U.S. Foreign Service Intern and spend two consecutive summers in paid 10-week internships designed to expose undergraduate students to U.S. diplomacy and the work of the Department of State.
Bradley University offers support for those interested in pre-law regardless of declared major/minor.
- Career Exploration – Whether you are certain about a legal career or just curious, we will provide personalized guidance to explore various avenues within the legal profession.
- Internship Opportunities – Gain real-world experience through our extensive network of legal partners, aligning with your career goals and academic interests.
- Law School Application Process – We will ensure you’re well prepared through the application process. You will receive a personalized application checklist to streamline your journey.
- Personal Statement Assistance – Crafting a compelling personal statement is crucial, so we will help you effectively showcase your unique story and aspirations.
- LSAT Preparation – Strategies and options for LSAT preparation will be provided to equip you with the tools needed for success.
- School Selection – Get one-on-one assistance in identifying law schools that align with your academic and career goals, maximizing your chances of admission.
- Paralegal Career Guidance – For those considering a career as a certified paralegal, we’ll offer guidance and resources to navigate this path. Whether you’re exploring certification exams or alternative legal career paths, we’re here to help!
- Workshops – Each semester we host exciting events with speakers and informative sessions to enhance your pre-law journey.
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