In 2016, the UCLA Department of Political Science celebrated ninety-six years of teaching, research, and public service within one of the nation’s finest universities. Instruction in political science began in September 1920 with one assistant professor, Dr. Charles E. Martin. Today, the department is considered one of America’s best, recently ranked 8th in the nation by researchers at Princeton University. Among the department’s many strengths, we have gained notable distinction in political economy, electoral behavior, comparative politics -- including the politics of developing nations -- and political theory.

The department’s greatest resource is its distinguished faculty. The faculty’s teaching and research continue to put the program at the forefront of its field. The department’s primary goal remains focused on providing the best possible education for students seeking to develop an expertise in the field of political science by instilling solid skills in research and analytic reasoning.