Welcome to Political Science at UAF

When I chose to study political science, I imagined myself working abroad or in Washington D.C. on foreign affairs. While in the Political Science Department I designed an independent study program that allowed me to work in rural Kenya at a women’s organization. It was during this time that I realized that the personal is political and that the most meaningful change we can make in the world often happens in our own communities. Alida Trainor, 2010, B.A.

Joining the UAF Political Science Department was one of the best decisions I have ever made. This department not only has small class sizes that promote in-depth discussion of topics ranging from Africa to the Arctic, but also professors who genuinely care about your academic and professional outcomes. Since graduating from the program, I have been accepted to one of the top ten law schools in the country – a feat I could have never accomplished without my outstanding professors. Kayla Haeg, 2019, B.A.

The political science curriculum challenged me to think critically about solving problems in our community, state, and across the nation. The political science faculty cared about creating opportunities for me to succeed in college and after graduation.  Jacob Gerrish, 2019, B.A.

I now serve as chief of staff to a representative in the Alaska State Legislature. I would not be in this career had it not been for the political science program at UAF and the UA Legislative Internship Program where I got my start in state government. The critical thinking skills I honed during my political science classes are incredibly valuable in my job, where attention to detail and understanding alternative viewpoints are essential. Joseph Byrnes, 2013, B.A.

When I chose to study political science, I imagined myself working abroad or in Washington D.C. on foreign affairs. While in the Political Science Department I designed an independent study program that allowed me to work in rural Kenya at a women’s organization. It was during this time that I realized that the personal is political and that the most meaningful change we can make in the world often happens in our own communities. Alida Trainor, 2010, B.A.