As a political science major, studying abroad will give you many experiences that you can’t have in the classroom. Living in another country, understanding how politics affect that country, and deepening your knowledge about global issues are only some of them. But which countries are the best places to study abroad for political science?
The answer depends on your interests. For example, if you’re writing a thesis on Latin American politics, Argentina and Chile would give you an amazing perspective. Or if you’re curious about how the European Union works, studying in an EU country, such as Belgium, Germany, or France, may open new career doors.
What makes these destinations the best?
The best places to study abroad for political science will expand your knowledge and launch your future.
While creating this list of where to study political science abroad, we took several factors into account. These include:
- Quality universities, institutions, and programs: We included countries with high-ranking universities, research institutions, and study programs, so you’ll learn lots of new things during your time abroad.
- The country’s offerings related to politics: Each country has something unique to offer. For example, Switzerland has a major United Nations office, which may mean a potential internship after your studies. Belgium is home to EU institutions, which is especially interesting for those who want to learn more about how the EU works.
- Things to do outside class: Hike in the Alps, visit the museums in London, or walk on the lively streets of Tokyo. In each country on our list, you’ll find cool activities to do.
- Safety: Although we know safety is relative, we included countries where you can live and study without significant risk.
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10 Best Countries to Study Abroad for Political Science
Here is our list of the best places to study political science abroad, with destinations in Europe, Asia, and Latin America:
1. United Kingdom
You can’t get much more iconic than studying political science in the UK.
According to the British Council, one in four world leaders have studied in the UK. There’s no reason why you can’t be one of them after you’ve finished your studies in the UK!
With world-class universities like the London School of Economics and the University of Oxford, the UK is one of the most popular places to study abroad for any major. You can make the most of your time living in the country by visiting historical political buildings like the Palace of Westminster, studying the famous Enlightenment thinkers from the UK, and gaining invaluable insights into global politics.
Don’t forget that the UK is made up of four countries, England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. While you’re there, it would be interesting to travel as much as possible to understand the similarities and differences between these countries.
What you need to know:
- Popular cities: London, Oxford, Edinburgh
- Recommended program: London School of Economics Summer School
- Explore all political science programs in the United Kingdom
2. Germany
In Germany, your courses will likely focus on German and European politics, international relations, and policy, which is not surprising given the country’s central role in the European Union. You can study in big cities like Berlin and Munich, or smaller student cities like Heidelberg, depending on your preferences.
In any case, you’ll find great institutions, such as Freie Universität Berlin, Heidelberg University, and the University of Munich. Germany is also known for its affordability, with low tuition fees for many programs. The affordability also goes for travel opportunities—you can get an unlimited public transport ticket valid across the country for €49 per month.
What you need to know:
- Popular city: Berlin
- Recommended program: CIEE Open Campus Block in Berlin, Germany
- Explore all political science programs in Germany
3. France
From Strasbourg to Paris and beyond, there’s a lot to love in France.
Study political science in the country with the world’s most famous revolution! There are many prestigious institutions in the French capital, such as Sciences Po and Sorbonne University, but of course, France is more than just Paris. For example, in the northeast, you have Strasbourg, a beautiful city that’s home to the European Parliament.
As a political science student, French is one of the best languages you can learn since it’s a very useful language for international business. And what better way to learn French than living in France?
What you need to know:
- Popular cities: Paris, Nice
- Recommended program: The Experiment: Study International Relations in France, Germany & Belgium
- Explore all political science programs in France
4. Belgium
There’s no talking about the European Union without mentioning Belgium. The Belgian capital Brussels is also considered the capital of the European Union, as it hosts several EU institutions. These include the European Commission, the Council of the European Union, and the European Council.
Outside Brussels, Belgium has prestigious teaching institutions, such as KU Leuven in the student city of Leuven and the College of Europe in Bruges. Belgium has three official languages, Dutch, French, and German, and the language locals speak will depend on the city you’re in. If you’d like to learn about European affairs, Belgium is definitely one of the best places to study abroad for political science.
What you need to know:
- Popular city: Brussels
- Recommended program: Research Study Abroad in Leuven, Belgium
- Explore all political science programs in Belgium
5. Netherlands
The Netherlands are another amazing place to expand your knowledge of your field.
As an English speaker, you’ll come across many high-quality courses in the Netherlands. The country has been ranking first in the EF English Proficiency Index for a few years now.
Universities such as the University of Amsterdam, Leiden University, and Maastricht University offer excellent political programs in English. Your studies will most likely focus on the European Union and European cultures, and you’ll have plenty of time to visit European cities while using the Netherlands as your base.
What you need to know:
- Popular cities: Amsterdam, Maastricht
- Recommended program: Maastricht University: Summer Program in European Studies
- Explore all political science programs in the Netherlands
6. Switzerland
A country known for its safety, pristine lakes, and towering mountains, Switzerland is also home to the headquarters of major companies and organizations. These include one of the four major offices of the United Nations, the World Health Organization, and the World Trade Organization in Geneva.
Whether you’re studying in a research university or interning in one of these major institutions, Switzerland will give you the CV boost you need.
What you need to know:
- Popular city: Geneva
- Recommended program: SIT Study Abroad: Switzerland: Intl. Studies & Diplomacy
- Explore all political science programs in Switzerland
7. Argentina
Let Argentina take your studies to the next level.
Given its historic social movements and human rights struggles, Argentina is an interesting destination for those exploring Argentinian and Latin American politics. You’ll get to learn diverse topics, from the country’s civil-military dictatorship between 1976 and 1983 to how it became the first Latin American country to legalize same-sex marriage in 2010.
From the capital city of Buenos Aires to the beautiful landscapes of Patagonia, Argentina has something for city lovers, nature enthusiasts, and culture buffs alike. Studying here is also a great opportunity to improve your Spanish.
What you need to know:
- Popular city: Buenos Aires
- Recommended program: SIT Study Abroad: Argentina: Social Movements & Human Rights
- Explore all political science programs in Argentina
8. Chile
Another Latin American destination, another opportunity to learn Spanish, and another country full of culture. Living in Chile will broaden your horizons, especially if you want to work in the social justice or tech side of politics.
Besides university placements, you can participate in independent study abroad programs. The latter is a good fit for those who would like to gain experience with community-building projects. Chile’s capital, Santiago, has an emerging tech scene, vibrant nightlife, and a wide range of things to do, so you’re definitely not going to get bored here.
What you need to know:
- Popular cities: Santiago, Valparaiso
- Recommended program: IES Abroad Santiago – Politics, Social Justice & Language
- Explore all political science programs in Chile
9. China
Broaden your perspectives and study political science while exploring China.
Given its rich history, diverse culture, and growing economy, China is becoming more important day by day. As a political science student in China, you’ll get to learn Chinese, one of the most spoken languages in the world, and experience first-hand what it’s like to live in one of the world’s fastest-growing economies.
You can find many study abroad programs related to the business, social, and policy side of politics, especially in big cities like Beijing and Shanghai.
What you need to know:
- Popular cities: Beijing, Shanghai
- Recommended program: USAC CHINA: Shanghai-International Business Studies
- Explore all political science programs in China
10. Japan
To explore the intersection between technology, policy, and politics, take a look at Japan’s advanced disaster management strategies. This is only a sneak peek into what you may learn in the country.
You can also study the Japanese government, international relations, or international politics at one of the country’s top universities, such as the University of Tokyo or Kyoto University. As it’s one of the safest countries in the world, the opportunities are wide open in Japan.
What you need to know:
- Popular city: Tokyo
- Recommended program: TEAN - Japan - Semester in Tokyo
- Explore all political science programs in Japan
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Gain unique insight on political science globally
From learning about the inner workings of the European Union to exploring how social movements have shaped Latin American countries, going abroad will help expand your worldview. That’s one skill that’s undoubtedly critical as a political science major!
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