Department of Political Science and International Relations
The Department of Political Science and International Relations is committed to the liberal arts tradition of intellectual curiosity, academic rigor, and a pluralistic and diverse curriculum. Students will not only graduate with a solid understanding of the theories, practices and institutions of politics, but also with an appreciation of how to create a more just and humane world.
We offer a range of courses that address every corner of the globe and that prepare students to be astute and keen political observers and actors. Through our courses, we provide opportunities for students to improve their critical thinking skills and the ability to read, write, and speak clearly, skills that are central to the liberal arts tradition and that are crucial for students to practice democratic citizenship.
To supplement these courses, we provide internship, community service learning and study abroad opportunities that encourage learning outside of the classroom.


Why Choose Political Science and International Relations at USD?
Immersive Experience
Multiple opportunities to get out in the field help students stand apart from their peers and in their future job search.
International Focus
Alternative and global perspectives on the U.S. and exposure to different cultures and points of view enhances the curriculum and ensures that students have an informed view of the world.
Close Relationships with Faculty
Faculty are continually cultivating opportunities for students, such as internships, jobs and study abroad opportunities. Faculty often become mentors, friends and colleagues who create an important network for professional development and job placements right out of college.
Graduate-Level Coursework
Undergraduate students benefit from the master's program in international relations because they have exposure to graduate level coursework and colleagues who can inspire their own pursuits.
Access to Active Scholars and Research
Students learn from active scholars who provide up-to-date trends and expertise to their students.
In the News
Violence against politicians is increasing ahead of Mexico's election — but some cartel leaders are now promising safety
// April 6, 2018
Mexico saw record violence in 2017, when its 25,339 homicide cases were the most in a year since the government began releasing data in 1997…
As they spar over immigration and trade, America and Mexico team up on the drug war at sea
// April 2, 2018
SAN DIEGO — The U.S. and Mexican governments are sparring over immigration and trade, but the two countries are joining forces on the …
USD/SDCCD April 11th Conference on Civility and Truth In Media Highlighted on NBC-7
// April 2, 2018
In an era when "fake news" has become a cynical, overused phrase that stretches the boundaries of credibility itself, academics and journali…
USD Alumnus Matz Appointed Secretary of American Battle Monuments Commission
// January 10, 2018
Retired Army Maj. Gen. William M. Matz Jr., a 1973 University of San Diego master’s degree recipient, had his official swearing-in cer…
San Diego graduate makes Time’s ‘Person of the Year’ cover
// December 6, 2017
One of the women who appeared on the cover of Time Magazine’s 2017 “Person of the Year” edition grew up in San Diego.…
University of San Diego alumna among several women gracing Time magazine's 'Person of the Year' issue
// December 6, 2017
A University of San Diego alumna is among several women gracing the cover of Time magazine's "Person of the Year'' issue, released Wednesday…
Why Time's Person of the Year is the right choice at the right time
// December 6, 2017
Can you hear us now? When women speak out about sexual harassment, assault and abusive behavior, are you listening? When men speak out abou…
Dark Moment for America as Senate Passes Tax Bill in the Middle of the Night
// December 4, 2017
Long after midnight, following a chaotic scramble that saw tax legislation being re-written on the fly, with handwritten edits in the margin…
We Can't Arrest Our Way Out of This Sex-Trafficking Scourge
// November 19, 2017
In this op-ed, Dr. Ami Carpenter of the Kroc School proposes steps that communities ought to take to address the spread of human trafficking…
Border Angels board expected more from Union-Tribune immigration panel
// November 15, 2017
The board of directors of Border Angels expresses deep concern over the manner in which the Aug. 2 Union-Tribune border forum was conducted.…
Decades-Long Struggle To Secure US-Mexico Border
// November 13, 2017
USD's David Shirk and Everard Meade are quoted in this in-depth study of the Mexican-American border by inewsource and KPBS.…
Harvard Professor To Critique U.S. Foreign Policy In San Diego Speech
// November 2, 2017
As a candidate, Donald Trump was very critical of how America was using its military might. He called for a pullback from widespread militar…
Women PeaceMakers Panel: Peace Officers, PeaceMakers and the Power of Partnership
// November 2, 2017
The Women PeaceMakers are many things: inspiring, dedicated, intelligent, thought-provoking and take-charge leaders who stand for what&rsquo…
U.S. Foreign Policy, Two Panel Perspectives on President Trump and the World
// October 31, 2017
Interested in engaged political discussions? Enjoy learning about United States foreign policy and future developments? Curious to hear what…
Fall 2017: Humanities Center Offers Engaging Speakers, Series
// September 18, 2017
The University of San Diego’s Humanities Center, located in Serra Hall 200, embarks on its second year of existence with several serie…
San Marcos Mayor Jim Desmond Guest Speaker at CRWF September Luncheon
// September 14, 2017
…
Green To Run For Lt. Gov, Kanuha Goes For Senate Seat
// September 1, 2017
Today, just a short time after Hawaii State Senator Josh Green announced his candidacy for Lieutenant Governor of Hawaii, Hawaii County Coun…
Giving Students the World Via USD's International Relations Graduate Program
// June 2, 2017
The Saudi Arabia-Iranian power struggle and its effect on Yemen. ISIS luring America's youth. Examining a post-Kemalist era for Turkish Poli…
Beyond the Classroom Introduces New Professors Candice Price, Cory Gooding
// February 20, 2017
Professors Cory Gooding and Candice Price have each taught at the University of San Diego for a year or less — Gooding in the Politica…
USD Students Attending Inauguration Academic Seminar in Washington D.C.
// January 19, 2017
Eleven students and two faculty members from the University of San Diego have been in Washington, D.C. since Jan. 9 for the ninth annual Ina…
Toreros' Mid-Year Graduation is Extra Special
// December 19, 2016
Graduation is a time to celebrate, reflect on all that's been learned and accomplished and to record the successful completion of a signific…
USD Awards Reward Professors' International Impact
// November 16, 2016
The University of San Diego kicked off its annual programming in the spirit of the national International Education Week celebration with a …
USD Community Gatherings for Post-Election Discussion
// November 15, 2016
Registering to vote and casting a ballot in an election and choose who you think best supports your values and beliefs are cherished privile…
USD Just Read: 'The Price of Thirst' Author Speaks on Water's Future
// November 14, 2016
Karen Piper, at one time, was like most people when it came to thinking about water. "I grew up in the desert (China Lake, CA) so I did…
Election Night: USD Students Examine, React to Results
// November 9, 2016
Will Hays arrived at the Hahn University Center Tuesday afternoon with a laptop and a mission.…
Communicating the Vote: Students Create Vote Campaigns for Nov. 8 Election
// November 7, 2016
Vote. In a word, that's been the focal point this fall semester for USD Votes, a dedicated program organized by USD Political Science P…
USD Votes Events This Week: Bishop McElroy, California Ballot Info, Discussions
// October 31, 2016
As the 2016 election draws near, USD Votes is continuing its mission to provide opportunities for registered voters to listen, to …
Elementary Students Encourage USD Community to Pledge to Vote
// October 24, 2016
“Hi, I’m J.J., have you registered to vote on November 8th?” Frank Garcia, a senior liberal studies major at the Universi…
Professor Leads Registration Effort to Ensure USD Votes
// September 29, 2016
Associate Professor of Political Science Casey Dominguez stood in front of a sizable gathering of USD students inside Frank's Lounge Monday …
USD Students Participate in The Washington Center's Convention Seminars
// July 21, 2016
College students from across the country, including 11 from the University of San Diego, are taking advantage of an opportunity that only co…
Graduating Toreros Selected as Fulbright Scholars
// April 27, 2016
For two University of San Diego Class of 2016 students, next month's graduation signals a transition from undergraduate degree recipient to …
Illume Speaker Series: Professor Avi Spiegel Discusses "The Future of Political Islam"
// April 1, 2016
Avi Spiegel, PhD, JD, an assistant professor of political science and international relations, will be the featured speaker for the Universi…
USD Institute for Civil Civic Engagement Cited in Huffington Post
// March 30, 2016
In the March 8 Huffington Post National Institute for Civil Discourse director Carolyn Lukensmeyer referenced an Opinion-Editorial pubished …
ICCE Director Discusses Political Violence on KPBS Midday Edition
// March 18, 2016
Dr. Carl Luna, Director Institute of Civil Civic Engagement, appeared on the March 15th Edition of KPBS Midday to discuss the history Of Vio…
ICCE Civility Op Ed in Times of San Diego
// March 16, 2016
The March 7th, 2016 edition of the Times of San Diego featured a commentary co-authored by ICCE Director Carl Luna, ICCE Media dir…
Investigating Islam: Q and A with Professor Avi Spiegel, PhD
// October 22, 2015
Avi Spiegel, PhD, is an assistant professor of Political Science and International Relations at the University of San Diego. He specializes …
The Legacy of Mandela and Why it Matters
// December 12, 2013
U-T San Diego -- Mike Williams is associate professor and department chair of Political Science and International Relations at the…
Tensions Between Democratic Legitimacy, Individual Rights Playing Out in Egypt
// August 15, 2013
KPBS — In response to escalating violence in Egypt, president Barack Obama has canceled scheduled joint military exercises with that c…
Education at the Heart of South Africa Experience
// July 26, 2013
Ryan T. Blystone recaps the latest Political Science course taught in South Africa by Dr. Mike Williams and Dr. Jim Gump. Inside USD …
The Office of the Curator at the Supreme Court of the United States Internship
// July 15, 2013
The Office of the Curator at the Supreme Court of the United States is currently accepting applications for Fall 2013 Internships. Interns a…
Part-Time Paid Internship at BAE Systems Support Solutions
// April 23, 2013
Attention: Candidates interested in a paid Part-Time (30-39 hours) Non Technical summer internship at BAE Systems Support Solutions within S…
Internship with Representative Juan Vargas
// April 15, 2013
Unpaid internships are available throughout the year, on either a full-time or part-time basis, in the 51st District (Chula Vista and Imperi…
Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI) Internship
// April 11, 2013
The purpose of the Congressional Internship Program (CIP) is to expose young Latinos to the legislative process and to strengthen their prof…
Political Science Department Awards
// April 2, 2013
The Political Science/International Relations Department congratulates the following seniors for their accomplishments: Phi Beta Kappa: &…
San Diego City Councilmember Scott Sherman Internship
// April 2, 2013
San Diego City Councilmember Scott Sherman is offering a select number of internship opportunities for local college students that are inter…
Phi Beta Kappa Honorees
// March 25, 2013
Congratulations to Corrine O'Sullivan, Tobias Nickel, Nicholas A. Shanesy, Ashley Monson, Cynthia Villacis, Melody Fahimirad, Dylan Heyden, …
National Organization for Women Internship
// March 7, 2013
The National Organization for Women, a national women’s advocacy organization based in Washington, DC is looking for interns for the S…
Political Science Department is now on Twitter!
// March 5, 2013
The Political Science and International Relations department is now on Twitter! Follow us @USDPoliSci…
Introduction to County Government Internship
// February 26, 2013
The Introduction to County Government Internship is unique in that interns will work near the core of the County of San Diego. Some administ…
Internship with the Office of State Senator Mark Wyland
// February 13, 2013
Job Title: District Office Intern, Office of Senator Mark Wyland Job Description: Positions are available in Senator Wyland’s Distric…
Undergraduate Research Conference - Call for Abstracts
// February 12, 2013
Undergraduate Research Conference – Call for AbstractsThursday, April 18, 2013 at 12:15-2:15 p.m.Hahn University CenterAbstract Submis…
Center for Policy Initiatives Internship
// January 30, 2013
The Center for Policy Initiatives seeks applications for the 2013 Students for Economic Justice (SEJ) Program. SEJ is a project while builds…
Internship with San Diego Council President Todd Gloria
// January 30, 2013
Todd Gloria of the Third Council District, newly appointed to Council President, seeks bright and devoted individuals with excellent writing…
Internship with San Diego Councilmember Scott Sherman
// January 30, 2013
City of San Diego Councilmember Scott Sherman, 7th District seeks interns to earn college credit and work with San Diego’s local elect…
Internship with World Trade Center San Diego Institute
// January 30, 2013
The World Trade Center San Diego’s (WTCSD) Institute (WTI) seeks unpaid interns to complete a six month program gaining critical insig…
The Dershowitz Group Internship
// January 30, 2013
The Dershowitz Group, a public affairs/strategic communications firm in Washington, D.C., seeks undergraduate and graduate students for a sp…
Washington Center Presidential Inauguration Blog
// January 14, 2013
3 USD Political Science professors. 1 Washington Center Presidential Inauguaration. Keep up with their adventures at: https://sites.s…
Supreme Court Justice Sotomayor to Speak at USD
// January 2, 2013
North County Times -- U.S. Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor, the first Hispanic appointed to the high court, will visit the Univer…
Euro Financial Crisis Essay Contest
// December 10, 2012
Congratulations to Madison Browning, John Cutter, Tanner Boisjolie, and Meliza Trimidal for winning the top awards for essays sponsored by t…
USD Students Hold Democratic Election in Political Science Honors Society
// November 28, 2012
Flexing their democratic muscles, the National Political Science Honor Society on campus, Pi Sigma Alpha, held elections Tuesday, November 2…
Washington, DC Staff Assistant/Legislative Correspondent
// November 27, 2012
Congresswoman Susan Davis seeks organized, friendly, detail-oriented person with strong interpersonal and writing skills for an entry-level …
USD Hosts Debate Watching Event
// October 17, 2012
KUSI -- It's a case of pizza and politics at the University of San Diego, as about 50 political science students gather to watch and then di…
Job Opening: Southern California Outreach Manager
// October 15, 2012
Small Business Majority is currently looking to hire a bilingual Southern California Outreach Manager, to conduct outreach and education on …
Pathways Summer 2013 Internship
// October 15, 2012
Pathways Internship Summer 2013 by the U.S. Agency for International Development seeks applicants for USAID’s summer intern program. …
Spring IPJ Internships
// October 15, 2012
Spring Internships at IPJ:Responsibilities include research assistance, event support, and administrative support. To apply: http://ww…
Internship with Senator Juan Vargas
// October 2, 2012
The campaign of Senator Juan Vargas for Congress is looking for college students interested in getting involved in the daily operations of a…
Voter Information
// September 26, 2012
Election Day is Tuesday, November 6th, 2012.Are you ready to vote? Last day to register for the election in CA: Monday, October 22, 2012 F…
WPSA Call for Papers
// September 26, 2012
WESTERN POLITICAL SCIENCE ASSOCIATION 2013 ANNUAL MEETINGMarch 28 – 30, 2013, Renaissance HotelHollywood, California The WPSA (Weste…
Avi Spiegel Discusses Mohammed Mursi's U.S. Visit with BBC World Service
// September 24, 2012
BBC World Service -- Given what President Obama recently said describing the new Egypt as neither friend nor foe, what sort of reception wil…
Intersession Course: The Washington Center
// September 20, 2012
Do you want to earn three units in Washington, DC over intersession and attend the Presidential Inauguration? The Washington Center is offer…
NSD Graduate Research Fellowship Program Info Sessions
// September 20, 2012
Are you a senior who plans to attend a research-based graduate program in Fall 2013? The National Science Foundation’s Prestigous Gra…
PPIA Fellowship
// September 18, 2012
The PPIA Fellowship helps students achieve a Master’s Degree. Must be a U.S. citizen, and have completed junior year by summer 2013. T…
Democracy in Action at Party Conventions
// September 17, 2012
Inside USD -- With election season in full swing, the Republican and Democratic parties hosted their national conventions this summer i…
Avi Spiegel Discusses Attacks in Libya on UT-TV
// September 14, 2012
U-T TV -- University of San Diego Assistant Professor Avi Spiegel discusses the recent attacks in Libya on U-T TV. Watch full video&nb…
Avi Spiegel Interviewed on NBC
// September 14, 2012
Political Science and International Relations professor Avi Spiegel speaks to NBC on the recent violence in Libya. NBC 7 News, Experts Expl…
Alumnus Dustin Webster's South Korea Blog
// September 12, 2012
Political Science Alumnus Dustin Webster is teaching in South Korea. Follow his blog at: http://goingbackeast.wordpress.com/.…
American Action Network Internship
// September 7, 2012
American Action Network seeks students who have a flexible schedule to educate voters about free market principles. Minimum of 10 hours per…
Congressman Brian P. Bilbray office internship
// September 7, 2012
Congressman Brian P. Bilbray seeks interns to experience a unique side of the legislative process. Interns gain insight through extensive le…
Grassroots Campaigns Paid Internship
// September 7, 2012
Grassroots Campaigns, a nation-wide political organizing firm that works with progressive non-profit groups to protect the environment, stop…
Intern with San Diego Housing Federation
// September 7, 2012
San Diego Housing Federation is a non-profit organization that advocates for the creation of affordable housing in San Diego County. Interns…
Intern with the George Plescia for State Senate Campaign
// September 7, 2012
George Plescia for State Senate Campaign is seeking both paid and unpaid field staff and intern for the upcoming election cycle. Participant…
Internship with Assembly Whip Toni Atkins
// September 7, 2012
Assembly Majority Whip Toni Atkins offers an internship to participate in the daily operations of the District Office. Duties vary but incl…
Internship with City Councilmember Sherri Lightner
// September 7, 2012
City Councilmember Sherri Lightner’s re-election campaign is seeking interns to assist with grassroots organizing, data management and…
Internship with Congresswoman Susan A. Davis
// September 7, 2012
Office of United States Congresswoman Susan A. Davis: Interns will field constituent inquiries, record caller comments, research, and assist…
San Diego North Chamber of Commerce Internship
// September 7, 2012
San Diego North Chamber of Commerce seeks public policy clerks to report to the Director of Business Development. Must work 15-20 hours per…
Scott Peters for Congress Internship
// September 7, 2012
Scott Peters for Congress is seeking interns who will have the opportunity to network with San Diego business and community leaders, talk in…
Senator Dianne Feinstein Internship
// September 7, 2012
Senator Dianne Feinstein’s San Diego District Office has internship opportunities for students who are interested in government and po…
The Dershowitz Group Internship
// September 7, 2012
The Dershowitz Group (TDG), a Washington DC based public affairs and strategic communications firm servicing policy-based clients, is seekin…
Volunteer Regional Director Position with The Borgen Project
// September 7, 2012
Regional Director position open with The Borgen Project, a national campaign that is working to make poverty a focus of U.S. foreign policy.…
Professor Dr. Casey Dominguez writes for the San Diego Union Tribune
// September 6, 2012
Political Science professor Dr. Casey Dominguez wrote an op-ed piece for UT-San Diego about President Obama's legacy as his party …
Want to know more about election activities?
// September 5, 2012
If you want to know more about election activities, go to: www.sandiego.edu/vote.…
Morocco's Islamist Prime Minister
// December 6, 2011
Foreign Policy -- Avi Spiegel is an assistant professor of political science at the University of San Diego and is completing a book on…
California: Where It's Not Good Being the Governor
// June 16, 2011
TIME -- It's starting to look like this mission is too tough for anyone. Like his predecessor Arnold Schwarzenegger, Governor Jerry Bro…
New AS Government Encourages Student Representation, Voice
// September 28, 2010
Kelsey Chase’s first visit to the University of San Diego served an individual purpose. After playing on a high school state b…
Political Science Alumnus Accepted into Prestigious Capital Fellows Program
// September 21, 2010
Mallory Waters ’08 has been accepted into the 2010-2011 Capital Fellows Program, where she will be a part of the Judicial Administrati…
Reality Changers Program Focuses on At-Risk Teens
// June 7, 2010
San Diego Union Tribune -- Chris Yanov has won awards, such as the Author E. Hughes Career Achievement Award from the Joan Kroc Sc…
Upcoming Events
- May1
The Idea of Beauty Series: Women and the Problem of Beauty
Tuesday, May 1, 2018 // 4 p.m.Serra Hall, Room 200, Humanities Center
Department of Political Science and International Relations
College of Arts and Sciences
Contact Us Email
Phone: (619) 260-6870
polisci@sandiego.edu
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KIPJ 261
5998 Alcalá Park
San Diego, CA 92110