About the Department
The Faculty of the Department of Political Science welcome you! We are engaged teachers and active researchers who represent the five subfields of Political Science and actively collaborate in interdisciplinary programs throughout campus.
Our graduates attend graduate school, law school and attain regional, national, and global employment in local/state government, non-profit organizations, legal fields, political fields and become vital contributing members to a variety of communities around the globe. We hope you will join us!
Our Degrees and Programs
Undergraduate Programs
Students can major or minor in Political Science as well as specialize in our three interdisciplinary certificate programs, International Politics, Pre-Law, and Alternative Dispute Resolution. Our POLS courses fulfill General Education offerings and contribute to a variety of programs across campus. Our small classes offer direct opportunity for rich discussion and learning between students and faculty in the supportive community of the classroom.
The University
The University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo is characterized as a comprehensive, diverse, regional university. Scholarship and research are an important part of faculty work and student engagement, but the primary focus is on providing high-quality baccalaureate and postgraduate education.
About UH Hilo and Hawaiʻi Island
Student Engagement
UH Hilo is a wonderful place to develop relationships with people from Hawaiʻi and around the world. Students may connect further with those student of similar interests in clubs as well as gain academic credentials through awards and scholarships. We proudly host the Iota Iota Chapter of Pi Sigma Alpha, the National Political Science Honors Society.
Beyond the Classroom
Hawaiʻi Island is a special place to study political science. Each year, the department hosts the campus wide celebration of Constitution Day. Our faculty actively publish in national and international venues. We encourage students to study in other undergraduate programs through national or global exchange as well as to contribute their talents widely through service to community.