Engaged in Public Service

The Political Science Department seeks to improve the quality of public policy and civic life in the United States and abroad by teaching students to think analytically and critically, conducting meaningful research, and collaborating with people in and beyond our JMU and local communities.  We are committed to an inclusive learning and working environment that celebrates diversity. We affirm the lives and experiences of historically excluded people and aim to cultivate a welcoming and participatory departmental culture where all can flourish.  

For guidance in choosing a major in Political Science (POSC), in Public Administration, or in International Affairs (INTA), click on the For Prospective Majors link on the Undergraduate Programs portion of the menu. 

Click below to hear three alumni reflect on the value of their experiences as majors in our department as they prepared for their careers in public service:

  • Kirk Cox, former Speaker of the Virginia House of Delegates
    • Class of 1979 political science major

  • Jamie Jones Miller, former Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense
    • Class of 1999 international affairs major

  • Levar Stoney, Mayor of Richmond, Virginia
    • Class of 2004 public administration and political science double major

You can check the NEWS feed below for stories on the JMU website related to our students, alumni, faculty, & staff.

  • Jan 24 default image
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    JMU to host international conference on accountability in Washington, D.C.

    On Feb. 7–9, JMU’s Washington Center will play host to the Accountability in African Public Policy and Administration conference.

  • Dec 18 JMU VALOR 1 Military, dependents find support through JMU VALOR

    Dukes cheerleader, ROTC cadet and Marine veteran Jonah Posada will have a unique perspective on Dec. 23 as he cheers on JMU in its first bowl game: the Armed Forces Bowl in Fort Worth, Texas.

  • Nov 30 Dr. Christine Bakker The Picture of a Journey to Florence

    New EUPS professor at JMU Florence campus, Christine Bakker, PhD, shares her professional journey, her experience working for the European Commission, and how she came to live in Florence, Italy full-time.

  • Nov 30 2018 alumni return to Florence A Window into the Consulting World

    Married JMU alumni, Mr. Richard Shapiro and Mrs. Alexis Shapiro stop by Florence, Italy to lead a consulting workshop and share their professional advice with the EUPS cohort.

  • Nov 30 Mr. Andrew Spannaus JMU Duke Puts Down Roots in Italy

    JMU Semester in Florence alumnus, Mr. Andrew Spannaus, speaks with students about his experience living in Milan and building a successful international career.

  • Nov 30 Il Conventino in Florence Il Conventino

    Across the Ponte Vecchio, this historical social hub bridges cultures and communities.

  • Nov 30 Climate Change Spurs Economic Changes A Changing Environment

    The EUPS program ensures students are ready to enter the rapidly changing job market with practical experience.

  • Nov 30 EUPS students travel to Brussels in Nov. 2023 Letter from the director of EUPS

    Executive Director Charles Blake discusses the current cohort, upcoming alumni events in March and May 2024, and the varied ways in which alumni contribute to the EUPS program.

  • Nov 10 Deborah snyder ORHF lead 1000x600 Ending veteran homelessness

    JMU ROTC graduate lays the foundation for Operation Renewed Hope

  • Oct 26 philip-frana-harnessing-AI-lead Harnessing the potential of AI

    Artificial intelligence’s potential to spark fear and confusion can easily overshadow its potential for improving lives.

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