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BA in Politics, Law and Leadership

Classes start 08/24/2026

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What is a BA in Politics, Law and Leadership degree?

The BA in Politics, Law and Leadership helps students to achieve their full potential as human beings by equipping them to understand, articulate, and promote the common good of society.

Graduate ready to apply your skills to careers in government (at the local, state, federal, or international level); civil society (non-profit and public interest groups); and business (law, lobbying, regulatory compliance, management).

Pre-law students will gain the background and skills necessary for success in law school and in the field of law. Our 3+3 accelerated admissions program to the University of Iowa College of Law also offers a fast-track to law school.

Reduce tuition by up to $24k

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Why earn a BA in Politics, Law and Leadership at SAU?

SAU's Politics, Law and Leadership program provides in-depth approaches to multiple areas in the field, including political philosophy, statistical methods, American government, law and global studies.

Expansive career options

Graduates have a wide range of career options, including law, business, nonprofits, education and all levels of government.

Experiential learning

Students take part in formative activities such as Model UN and Mock Trial, which is coached by a local lawyer and SAU alum.

Pairs well with other majors

Many politics, Law, and Leadership majors combine their degree with a major such as History or Criminal Justice.

3+3 path to law school

Qualified students may apply to UI Law School in junior year, completing both degrees in six years.

Add a minor in Pre-Law

St. Ambrose's Interdisciplinary Minor in Pre-Law prepares students for law school and success in the field of law.

What you’ll learn in your Politics, Law and Leadership degree program

In our Politics, Law and Leadership degree program, you'll study the ethical foundations and goals of political society. Students learn to navigate the complexities of local, national, and global civil society and reflect on the ultimate purposes of human actions, such as justice and the common good.

Whether you are persuading clients or colleagues, winning courtroom battles, engaging fellow citizens in fruitful dialogue, or collaborating with people from diverse cultural and international backgrounds, these skills will help you empower yourself and others to lead more informed, connected, and fulfilling lives.

Explain the significance of ethical theories to the goals, institutions, and behaviors of political society
Describe the role of local, state, federal, and international institutions in addressing the issues of political society
Analyze issues and topical issues in light of objective criteria (logic, statistics, legal or policy analysis) and rhetorical techniques (persuasive argumentation, civil discourse, or conflict management)
Assess and respond to the work of scholars, applying appropriate concepts, reasoning, and evidence to address relevant research questions
Apply political science skills in an experiential environment such as Mock Trial, Model United Nations, presentation of research, an internship, or study abroad.

“The Political Science program is a tight knit community—it's like a family. I made all of my best friends in this program. Dr. Kim makes the program exceptional with his accessibility, knowledge, and relationship skills. Clubs like Model UN and Mock trial make the program very attractive for those wanting to make friends with similar values and goals.”

-Laura Meloy ’22 BA in Political Science and International Studies

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Explore BA in Politics, Law and Leadership courses

This degree will require you to complete a total of 120 credits.
You will complete 36 core curriculum credits; 30 politics, law, and leadership credits; and 54 elective credits.

View Politics, Law and Leadership courses

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Sample courses

Class code	Class title	Credits
PSCI 110	Law & Society	3 credits
PSCI 120	Leadership & the Goals of Government	3 credits
PSCI 130	Global Issues	3 credits
PSCI 300	Dynamics of Government	3 credits
PSCI 400	Research in Political Science	3 credits

How much does a BA in Politics, Law and Leadership degree cost?

The cost of your degree will depend on several factors, like scholarships, housing, meal plans, and transfer credits. New students also pay a $100 matriculation fee. You will also need to budget for books, supplies, materials, transportation, personal costs, loan fees, and other expenses. Explore the cost of attendance.

Full-time student living on campus

Expense	By semester	By year
Full-time tuition (12-18 credits)*	$19,674	$39,348
Housing**	$4,313	$8,625
Food***	$3,135	$6,270
Technology fee	$150	$300
Total direct charges (billable)	$27,272	$54,543

*Based on 2026-2027 tuition and fees. Tuition and fees are subject to change each summer.
**This cost is estimated, actual housing cost will vary by student selections.
***Cost estimate based on 3 meals per day.

How much does campus housing cost?

When it comes to housing, St. Ambrose University offers diverse options to meet the needs of our students. From traditional dormitories to apartment-style living, there’s something for everyone. The cost of our housing will vary based on where you decide to live and the meal plan you choose.

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St. Ambrose University accreditation

St. Ambrose University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Accreditation and recognition provide the assurance we meet standards for quality faculty, curriculum, learner services, and fiscal stability.

Learn about SAU's accreditations

How does SAU support Politics, Law and Leadership students?

Faculty get to know students individually, help them find the programs and activities for their personal and professional development and assist with Mock Trial, Mock UN, internships in law or politics, Summer Research Institute and Peace Corps Preparation.

Faculty also provide advising for pre-law students of any major to ensure students are prepared to succeed in law school and the practice of law.

Politics, Law and Leadership faculty

Duk Kim, PhD

L. Joseph Hebert, PhD

Other support resources for Politics, Law, & Leadership students

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The Student Success Center at SAU

Access free tutoring, study groups, and supplemental instruction through our Student Success Center.

Explore academic support services

Accessibility Resource Center

Need classroom accommodations, alternative exam arrangements, or disability support strategies? The Accessibility Resource Center is here to help.

Learn about our resources

Career services

Our Academic and Career Planning Center is ready to help you polish your resume and land a job or internship to launch your career.

Discover career support

Are cost savings available for the Politics, Law and Leadership program?

SAU believes education should be accessible to all. We offer a variety of scholarships and financial aid options to make college more affordable for our students so they can succeed academically and financially.

Ambrose Advantage Scholarship

Through the Ambrose Advantage Scholarship program, a tuition-free St. Ambrose University education is available to any Pell Grant-eligible Iowans. Learn more about the Ambrose Advantage.

Merit-based and institutional scholarships

St. Ambrose offers excellent scholarships and grants based on your strong academic performance, your talent in fine arts or athletics or your community involvement. Explore SAU scholarships.

Transfer previous credits into SAU

At SAU, you may be able to transfer previous college credit toward your bachelor’s degree, saving you significant time and money. Learn how to transfer credits.

Campus resources for Politics, Law and Leadership students

Politics, Law and Leadership students participate in Constitution Day and the Folwell Lecture and have the option to become involved in several other activities including Mock Trial and Summer Research Institute.

“ I got very involved in sustainability my senior year at Ambrose. I got to host a podcast and spearhead many events like the annual Sustainability Fest & Litterpalooza with one of my best friends because of the endless support Ambrose provides. I also got to play a hand in the revitalization of the Hayes Courtyard. Ambrose is a place that values and uplifts students' voices.”

-Laura Meloy ‘22, BA in Political Science and International Studies

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Admission requirements for a Politics, Law and Leadership degree

Here are the admissions requirements for our BA in Politics, Law and Leadership.

You must have a minimum cumulative, unweighted GPA of 2.5 or above on a 4.0 unweighted scale from an accredited high school.
You must provide an official high school academic transcript.
Applicants whose first language isn't English must meet the English proficiency requirement for admission.
Optional: Provide test scores. SAU is a test-optional school,* but if you'd like to send your scores, send them as part of your high school transcript or directly from the testing service.

*Test scores are required for admission to specific programs and eligibility for top academic scholarships. Please contact your Admissions Counselor for details.

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International student requirements

If you live outside of the U.S. there are different admissions requirements. Here’s what you’ll need:

Official transcripts from secondary education
A minimum 2.5 CGPA out of a 4.0 scale or equivalent
Proof of English language proficiency (minimum scores: TOEFL - 79, IELTS - 6.0)
Copy of your passport and other documentation

What can I do with a BA in Politics, Law and Leadership?

Your degree can help you reach your professional goals. SAU can never promise a career or particular outcome upon graduating. Here is a list of potential job titles, traits and settings graduates of our Politics, Law and Leadership program could achieve.

Potential job titles

Political Analyst
Political Consultant
Government Relations Specialist
Diplomat/Foreign Service
Lawyer
Intelligence Analyst

Potential employment settings

Law office
Public official
Municipal or state government
Corporate management
Nonprofit management
High school or university

Traits of a Politics, Law and Leadership graduate

Professional demeanor
Objectivity
Diplomacy
Responsibility
Imagination
Empathy

Industry facts

The job outlook for research analysts is rapid growing with a 23% margin, this percentage demonstrates much faster growth than the average job in the political science field.
Research analysts for political science make an average of $41.21 per hour, effectively summing up to $85,720 per year, this pay grade comes with about five years of experience.

For more information on employment and wages, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics' Occupational Outlook Handbook.

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Become who you are meant to be

With more than 50 undergraduate and graduate programs, there’s something for everyone at St. Ambrose University! Explore our programs to find your place at SAU.