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.

The next #JMUGivingDay is on Tuesday, February 21, 2023.  We are promoting the Washington Semester need-based scholarship program, the department's overall annual fund account, and the EU Policy Studies graduate program fund.

For more on JMU Giving Day 2023, see: https://givingday.jmu.edu/ 

Watch this space in January 2023 for more information about giving opportunities that will support departmental programs on the next JMU Giving Day.   To see how you can support the program right now with your time and with monetary support, go to: https://www.jmu.edu/polisci/givingposc.shtml.