Department of Politics and International Affairs

The story of people and power

Politics are central to everyday life; from the headlines we read to the choices we make as communities and nations. Whether you’re drawn to local government, international relations, public policy, or advocacy, as a Politics and International Affairs major, you’ll examine the systems that influence how societies work, and how they can be improved.

Through research and discussion, you’ll investigate how decisions are made, how movements take shape, and how ideas translate into action. The skills and experience you gain will prepare you for a career where thoughtful leadership and global outlook are needed: government, business, law, education, nonprofits, and more.

Why study Politics and International Affairs at NAU

At NAU, studying politics means understanding the bigger picture: how local decisions connect to global challenges, and how individuals can shape both. From immigration to Indigenous governance to climate policy and civic leadership, you’ll gain the tools to understand and influence the world around you.

Through small, discuss-based classes and faculty mentorship, you’ll gain a deep understanding of the theory, principles, and practice of government at the local, national, and global levels through study and peer collaboration.

Learning outcomes

At NAU’s Department of Politics and International Affairs, you will:

• identify and use salient political science concepts and analytical methods to evaluate current public policies, political actors’ behavior, political events, and institutional arrangements. 
• define, design, and implement effective research projects in political science, including testing hypotheses with basic empirical data and documenting findings in a formal research report. 
• acquire the skills and knowledge base to understand the importance of and options for environmental sustainability and its tenuous relationship to economic development in local and global terms. 
• compare and contrast basic political and governmental structures, processes, and policies between Western and non-Western countries and apply this information to current issues. 
• demonstrate advanced writing skills and be able to summarize and explain scholarly political science articles. 

Bringing learning to life

From national competitions to local debates, student organizations and an Experience of Difference requirement make the study of politics hands-on and immediately applicable at NAU. These experiences turn theory into practice and prepare you to lead with insight and integrity.

Dedicated support

At NAU, you’ll find paths designed to be accessible and personal. With affordable tuition, faculty mentors, and experiences that prepare you for the career you want, you can count on individualized support from day one.

Richard D. Young Lab

As a Politics and International Affairs major at NAU, you’ll have access to the school’s hub for political research and public engagement. At the Richard D. Young Lab, you’ll collaborate with faculty and conduct research that advances understanding of Arizona’s evolving social and political landscape. By connecting rigorous academic methods with real community issues, the lab bridges the gap between research and public service while helping you build critical thinking skills and develop the ability to make informed contributions to Arizona and beyond.

Faculty mentors

Dedicated to helping you think deeply about power and purpose, faculty of the Department of Politics and International Affairs will guide you to better understandings of different viewpoints through meaningful dialogue about the issues shaping our shared future. You’ll find that faculty mentorship at NAU is personal and lasting, from research to writing and internships to career planning.

Scholarships and assistantships

Scholarships and graduate assistantships are available to support your academic journey at NAU. Assistantships typically include tuition support, stipends, and hands-on experience assisting faculty with teaching or research. You can explore scholarships specific to Politics and International Affairs on the Scholarship Universe website.