Yeshiva College
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Political Science

Are you fascinated by the forces that shape our world and our daily lives? Have you ever wondered what lies beneath the surface of gripping newspaper headlines? The answers wait for you in the world of political science.

Politics surrounds us every day, yet few venture beyond the surface. We, however, are not content with mere glimpses; we seek to uncover the hidden patterns that govern our lives. Through rigorous investigation and the use of cutting-edge research methods, we shed light on a vast array of political behaviors, institutions, and outcomes.

In Political Science at Yeshiva College, we investigate fundamental questions related to liberty, equality, democracy, power, and justice. Our mission is to explore the very essence of the human experience, armed with careful research and passionate curiosity.

We develop insights into the intricacies of voting, elections, social movements, terrorism, war, and so much more. From healthcare policies to partisan polarization, international cooperation to public opinion – the stakes are high, and we're here to equip you with the knowledge and skills to thrive in a dynamic and fast-changing global world and career environment.

The power of political science doesn't stop at being an engaged citizen; it opens doors to multiple career opportunities. Picture yourself making a difference in government, business, law, research, consulting, non-profit management, journalism, social media, or international organizations. Let your ambitions soar as you step into the realms of political communications, electoral politics, or education.

As part of our department, you'll be at the forefront of the action. Engage in Honors level courses through the Jay and Jeannie Schottenstein Honors Program. Embrace hands-on experiences with summer internships, where classroom knowledge comes to life, and your career dreams take shape.

We believe in camaraderie, and our tight-knit community proves it. Join the Political Science Society and enjoy thrilling trips to the U.N., captivating lectures, enriching films, and much more. Express your voice in "The Clarion," our student-run journal delving into the fascinating world of politics.

International affairs take center stage through the Rabbi Arthur Schneier Program, where you'll attend stimulating lectures on a wide range of global issues. Student board members help steer the program, offering you a chance to make a real impact.

Mission Statement

The mission of the Department of Political Science is for undergraduates majoring in political science to be prepared and to be qualified to pursue advanced studies in political science, law, and public policy and/or to pursue employment in various government, law-related fields, and the private sector.  These milestones will be achieved by providing courses covering a spectrum of subfields with political science, so as to provide majors in political science with a comprehensive background in the fundamentals of political science, current disciplinary controversies, and an understanding of political institutions and processes, current issues both US and international, and developing proficiencies in written and oral communication.

Program Student Learning Goals

  • Students will be able to analyze and understand the operation of US political institutions, processes, or policy outcomes.
  • Students will be able to comprehend current controversies in American politics.
  • Students will be able to explain the domestic and international causes of terrorism, war and political violence.
  • Students will be able to understand why countries engage in cooperation and what factors may enhance such cooperation.
  • Students will understand how political institutions shape policy outcomes.
  • Students will be able to compare systems of government as well as domestic and foreign policies across countries.
  • Students will be able to comprehend key philosophical debates about politics.

For further information about the Political Science Department at Yeshiva College, please contact Professor Joseph Luders at luders@yu.edu or 646-592-4849. 

Program Information

Political Science Major Requirements
Political Science Minor Requirements

The following list includes faculty who teach at the Beren (B) and/or Wilf (W) campus.

Ruth A. Bevan
Professor Emerita of Political Science
David W. Petegorsky Chair in Political Science (W)

Jonathan Cristol
Adjunct Assistant Professor of Political Science (B)

Matthew Incantalupo
Assistant Professor of Political Science (W)

Joseph E. Luders
Associate Professor in Political Science (B);
David and Ruth Gottesman Chair in Political Science 
Chair, Department of Political Science

Alexandra Panzarelli
Adjunct Instructor in Political Science (B/W)

Chuck Freilich
Visiting Professor of Political Science (B/W)

Joel Strauss
Adjunct Instructor in Political Science (B)

Tevy Troy
Senior Scholar - Straus Center (B/W)

Maria Zaitseva
Clinical Assistant Professor in Political Science (B/W)

Resources

Students often find that internships enhance their practical knowledge of politics and provide them with valuable work experience as well as useful contacts. Students are strongly encouraged to seek out these opportunities. Internships might be combined with academic work in independent studies for course credit.

Many students have found many rewarding opportunities in Washington D.C. through the Orthodox Union - Institute for Public Affairs program.

Below you will find a listing of a small sample of the many internship options. Look them over carefully. You should also consult some of the many internship search engines and databases available online. 

Journalism

International and Domestic Politics and Policy

Additional listings can be found at the websites of national advocacy organizations and think tanks.

Government

City
  • New York City Mayor’s Office and City Council
  • New York City - Multiple listings in city government.
  • NYC Summer Internships - Recent participating agencies include: Department of Transportation, Economic Development, Youth and Community Development, Homeless Services, and Environmental Protection.
  • New York City Urban Fellows Program ($25,000). For recent graduates; applications due between September through mid-January.
State
  • New York State Assembly & Senate Internships (paid)
Federal
International Government
  • United Nations (UNICEF, International Money Fund, Democracy Watch, Human Rights, and others).

Students may also take one internship to count towards satisfaction of the elective requirement. Before students register for internship credit, they need to consult with the department and with the advising center to learn of specific requirements and restrictions of these two options.

Further DC internship advice from PolitixGroup: “One of the best ways to find employment in the Washington DC area is to intern. Whether it is for the United States Congress, the White House, a think tank, political parties, or another branch of the government, DC internships offer you an experience that is a unique perspective and an excellent complement to your education and/or your political aspirations

While summer is the most convenient time for many young people to intern in DC, spring and fall is the best time to apply for internships. Competition is fierce for internship slots in the summer, while during the other parts of the year, it is easier to get selected.

Washington, DC is an expensive city in which to live. The fact that most internships are unpaid does not help. It is important to have either some money saved, family financial backing, or to consider even a part-time job while you are up here. While it is expensive, don't let that deter you from pursuing an internship. The long-term political experience that you will gain will definitely outweigh the short-term financial strain.

Whether you go on to a career in politics or not, an internship in Washington, DC will provide you with a valuable learning experience which will serve you well in whatever career you choose to pursue. Interns, especially interns in DC, run the city and are regarded as a precious commodity, whether they are opening mail or helping to draft policy. Besides learning a great deal, they also have a lot of fun. We cannot recommend internships enough to students, and hope that everyone will have the chance to have the experience.”

Political Science

International Affairs

Policy and Public Administration

Social Work

American Government

International

Special Interest/Lobbying Groups

Think Tanks

Political Science Citation Guide

When you follow the Style Manual for Political Science (1993) published by the American Political Science Association (APSA), use parenthetical citations within your text to indicate the source of borrowed ideas and quotations.

At the end of your paper you should provide a list of all of the references cited in your paper. The sample citations and references on these pages are drawn from the Style Manual for Political Science, revised edition, 1993, and from The Chicago Manual of Style, 14th edition (1993).

The following Web sites will prove useful as you begin to become familiar with the APSA form of citation in your papers:

Writing Center

Analytical writing is a craft that takes practice to master. To obtain personal assistance, visit the Beren Campus Writing Center.