Michigan was one of the first schools in the country to organize a department devoted entirely to the study of politics. The first political science course was taught in 1860 by Thomas McIntyre Cooley within the law department, followed by courses on International Law taught by President James B. Angell. The Department of Political Science was officially established in the College of Literature, Science, and Arts in 1910.
Today, the Department has over 50 faculty members, 120 graduate students, and approximately 1,000 undergraduate concentrators. Many students and faculty combine their study and research in Political Science with other academic interests, such as public policy, public health, economics, philosophy, and more, to prepare for advanced studies or specific careers. The program has gained national and international recognition for the achievements of faculty members and students. The Department takes pride in its members' varied accomplishments as teachers, writers, consultants, and advisors to public officials.
Andrew Murphy, U of M Political Science Department Chair.
Murphy joined the Political Science Department after appointments at Virginia Commonwealth University, Rutgers University, Valparaiso University, and the University of Chicago. His research takes up the intersections between politics and religion, in both historical and contemporary contexts. He is particularly interested in the emergence of religious liberty and liberty of conscience in early modern England and America, and the ongoing ramifications of these debates as they continue to unsettle American politics.
Learn the skills, Serve communities, and Change the world.
"Within the University of Michigan Department of Political Science, you can build an astonishing and versatile and long-lasting skillset here. One that will scaffold whatever you do next, and whatever you do after that, and after that. One that gives you the tools to transform the world."
- Former Chair, Nancy Burns
