The contemporary world presents us with longstanding and novel challenges. Political Scientists understand that solving our energy, environmental, health, conflict, economic, education, and community problems requires not only technical but also political solutions. The Department of Political Science at the University of Rhode Island seeks students interested in understanding the domestic and international political environment in which these challenges reside.
We invite you to explore our website to learn more about our professors' exciting research activities. Read about the pursuits and successes of our alumni as well as our current students. If you are considering Political Science as an undergraduate major, then visit our curriculum pages or read about why Political Science is among the most popular majors at URI. Prospective graduate students can read about our two degree programs (MA & MPA).
Come back frequently to get updates about our events and lectures.

2011-2012 Political ScienceStudent Excellence Award Winners |
University Academic Excellence Award - Johnathan D. Berard Edgar Leduc Award for Excellence in Public Service - Michael J. Coates Eric F. Kumpf Memorial Scholarship Award - Leah F. Small and Sean T. Cunningham David Warren International Relations Award - Maris J. Gourd Harold Thewlis American Government Award - Tristany A. Leikem Josephine Milburn Comparative Government Award - Kirsten E. Leikem Stephen Wood Political Theory Award - Scott H. Andrews
Congratulations to MA student Daniel Carrigg: Full Fellowship to Brown University, Political Science, Ph.D. program |
Washington, DC 2012
Over spring break, 12 Students accompanied Professor Shanna Pearson-Merkowitz on a trip to Washington, DC. While there, the class attended meetings with U.S. Senators, lobbyists, representatives from think tanks, federal agencies and the media. 
Meet Stephanie Segal
I was inspired to become URI Student Body President because of the three years I spent on Senate and I always knew I wanted to serve one day.