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Political Science, B.A. with Social Studies Teacher Licensure

Enter the Teaching Profession With a Focus on Social Studies
  • 90%

    Alumni Report Working or Going to Graduate School Within 12 Months of Graduation

  • +6%

    Job Outlook for Political Scientists Over the Next Decade

  • 26th

    UNCW Ranking Among Best Online Programs by U.S. News & World Report

Plan for a future as a:

Teach K-12 social studies and civics.

Manage or advise election and public policy campaigns.

Raise money for political campaigns, nonprofit organizations or other causes.

Manage non-government organizations that advocate for policy, provide education or serve people in need.

Serve as spokespeople for candidates, organizations, or agencies, shaping messages and working with media.

Learn To

Meet the requirements for a North Carolina teaching license in 39 hours (PLS) + 21 Teacher Education Program hours and

Build a foundation in American politics, international relations and skills necessary to develop, promote and implement public policy

Analyze political puzzles by collecting and analyzing evidence

Offer novel solutions to complicated real-world problems

Effectively communicate with the public, politicians and practitioners

“ I have become a member of a community bigger than myself, surrounded by students and faculty that have inspired me to become more resourceful, inquisitive, daring and motivated than I ever was before. ”
Jordan Smith ‘21
Jordan Smith ‘21
Political Science, B.A. with Social Studies Teacher Licensure Program Overview

Earn a Political Science Degree and Prepare to Teach

Our program is a collaboration between the Department of Public and International Affairs and the Watson College of Education.

In addition to completing the requirements for the major, political science majors seeking licensure in social studies must complete the teacher education program requirements and a minimum of 21 collateral hours.

Former SGA President Ottillie Mensah seated in a chair near a window in a student lounge

Teach the Next Generation

Sample Courses in Political Science

Table shows sample courses in this program
PLS 201 Intro to Political Science Methods
PLS 205 Campaigns & Elections
PLS 212 Intro to Political Theory
PLS 220 Intro to International Relations
PLS 230 Intro to Comparative Government & Politics
See The Full Curriculum

How Do I Major in Political Science w/ Social Studies Teach Licensure?

For information on the teacher education program admissions criteria and the courses required for licensure in North Carolina, see the – Watson College of Education section of the undergraduate catalogue.

If you are planning to pursue the social studies teacher licensure, you should apply to the Watson School of Education as soon as admissions requirements are met (typically your sophomore year) and plan your program in regular consultation with your advisor. Teacher licensure requirements are established at the state level and may be changed by the state at any time.

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