The faculty and students in the Department of Political Science study politics in all of its manifestations:

• the institutions of government in the United States and around the world
• the role of interest groups, and elections and political parties in the political process
• the relationships among nations
• the connections of the law and courts to politics
• the role of citizens in government

The tools we use to approach these issues range from theoretical and philosophical studies, to the historical and institutional analysis, to quantitative studies.

As the Capital of the State of New York, Albany is an exceptional location for a Department of Political Science. Within walking distance to the Capitol and Legislative buildings, the Department has a unique connection to the politics of New York while maintaining a view of the nation and the world.