History / Political Science

Degree Level:

Undergraduate

school:

SASE - Division of Social Sciences

Learning Mode:

On Campus

Degree:

Major, Minor

Bachelor of Arts in History/Political Science

Spark change at the local, state, or national level with a degree in History/Political Science! If you have causes you believe in and want to have the opportunity to make a difference, majoring in History/Political Science will give you the knowledge of the past and the dedication for the future you need to succeed in government.

Why be a History/Political Science major?

Here’s what makes the Mount’s History/Political Science major unique:

Student with state senator

Incredible internships: Our internship program is often the catalyst that launches our Historical/Political Science majors into their careers. There are several opportunities to intern with individual local elected officials, but one of the greatest opportunities is the NY Senate Session Assistants program, where you’ll spend an entire semester working at the State Capitol in Albany!
Hudson Valley treasures: Being a History major in the historically rich Hudson Valley is one of the greatest benefits of our program. From George Washington’s Headquarters just a mile from campus to local historic sites like the Vanderbilt Mansion and Roosevelt’s Presidential Library, it’s so much more fun to learn about history among it!
Lens for the future: In order to be an effective government official, you need to not only have a plan for the future, but also an appreciation for where we’ve been and how we got to where we are: a.k.a., a love for history. That’s why the Mount’s combined History/Political Science major is the perfect blend for future leaders.

What to expect as a History/Political Science major

30+ credits in History/Political Science

Learn about History/Political Science academic requirements and courses here.

As a History/Political Science major, you will take courses in a variety of aspects of history, politics, and government to be prepared for your career. Similar to our traditional History majors, you will have the ability to flex the number of courses you take in the subject to fit your needs. To start with, you will take at least two courses each in American and European history, government, political thought, and electives. Additionally, you’ll have the opportunity to take on an internship or independent study, or even paid summer research!

Going to a service-oriented college means that you’ll be preparing for your life of public service from the very beginning. For example, you might work with the local elementary school on a history research book they’re writing or choose to join one of our activism and awareness-based clubs like Aging United, Latino Student Union, or Operation Students Supporting Military. Giving back starts here.

Be prepared for your future

While not required, internships are highly encouraged for History/Political Science majors, and our Career Center is here to help you find the perfect fit. Some of our students have opted for longer-term, broad internships at the state level through the New York State Senate and Assembly, while others have preferred the more one-on-one learning available in local government through the Office of Assembly Woman Sandy Galef, the Orange County Historian's Office, the Office of Congressman Sean Patrick Maloney, and the District Office of U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer.

After graduation, the most natural use for your History/Political Science major is in government positions at local, state, or national levels, but History/Political Science alumni can also excel in teaching, law, business, and traditional history-based fields like museum curation and archiving.

Here’s how some of our History/Political Science alumni are using their degrees:

Steven Neuhaus ’96, Orange County Executive
Omar Elizondo ’00, Assistant Principal at Houston ISD
Karl Brabenec ’01, NYS Assemblyman, 98th District at New York State
Heather Serignese '06, CEO Communications Director for The Hartford
Jason Franky ‘08 MBA ’11, Director of Student Financial Assistance at Westchester Community College
Jefrey Velasquez ’12, Legislative Director at New York City Council
Ashley Peel ’14, Associate General Counsel at AFSCME Council 93
Nirmala Singh ’17, National Service Coordinator at NYC Office of the Mayor