Bachelor of Science Legal Studies: Political Science 120 Credits | School of Social and Behavioral Sciences | Dobbs Ferry

Legal Studies: Political Science Overview
Are you interested in politics, the law, business, or government? Then Mercy College’s four-year Legal Studies with a Specialization in Political Science Program is for you. Leading to a Bachelor of Science degree, the program is for students interested in law school, or a career in politics and public administration, or in pursuing a graduate degree.
You’ll develop analytical, writing and oral advocacy skills and will be introduced to the skills necessary to resolve conflict such as: mediation, negotiation and arbitration.

Career Opportunities
Career opportunities include: law, business, government services, international affairs/organizations, interest representation (lobbying), campaign management, non-profits/non-governmental organizations (NGOs), military, conflict management, organizational management, and teaching.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does earning a degree take?
Full-time students can complete the 120-credit degree program in four years.
Are department faculty available for academic advising?
Yes, faculty are always ready to help students with questions about what courses to take, the sequencing of courses, and career opportunities, including internships and cooperative education.
Why should I major in Legal Studies with a Specialization in Political Science?
The Legal Studies major with a Specialization in Political Science is for students interested in government or attending law school. The program is designed to help students develop the oral communication, writing and critical thinking skills needed to be successful in government and in the legal community.
Am I eligible for induction into an honor society?
Yes. With 75 degree credits and 15 major credits (and overall GPA at least 3.3, major GPA 3.4), you are eligible for induction into Pi Gamma Mu, the National Honor Society for the Social Sciences.
Do you offer the program online?
While some courses are offered online, the entire program is not available online.
Do you have an internship program?
Yes, students are afforded the opportunity to intern.
Program Details & Curriculum
Curriculum Overview
General Liberal Arts and Sciences
General Education Requirements: 60 Credits
Major Concentration
Legal Studies: 36 Credits
Open Electives: 24 Credits
Total: 120 Credits
For a full curriculum listing visit our catalog.
Academic Program Sequence Map
Download a copy of the sequence map for:
- 2020 - 2021 Legal Studies: Political Science Sequence Map
ARCHIVE
- 2019 - 2020 Legal Studies: Political Science Sequence Map
- 2018 - 2019 Legal Studies: Political Science Sequence Map
- 2017 - 2018 Legal Studies: Political Science Sequence Map
Program Outcomes
By the end of this program, students should be able to:
- Identify and explain both federal and state governments and their respective court systems
- Conduct research which effectively integrates primary source material
- Critically analyze and interpret the law; evaluate the legal arguments
- Apply ethical concepts to legal and political situations
- Demonstrate analytical writing, oral communication and advocacy skills