Is University of Rochester or George Washington University better for political science?

George Washington University has the edge for political science, mainly because its location in Washington, DC gives you far more direct access to government, policy, and political internships during the school year. For a student who wants politics to be part of everyday life, that proximity matters a lot.

The biggest differentiator is internship access. At GW, political science is tightly connected to the city around it, so classes, networking, speakers, and career opportunities often overlap in a very practical way. That can make it easier to build a resume for grad school or jobs in policy, campaigns, public affairs, or government service before graduation.

Another advantage is the surrounding professional ecosystem. DC constantly brings in alumni panels, visiting officials, policy events, and research opportunities tied to national and international politics. For political science specifically, being able to attend hearings, policy talks, embassy events, or public-affairs programs nearby is something Rochester simply cannot match in the same day-to-day way.

University of Rochester is still a very good school, and it may appeal more if you want a more flexible academic structure. Rochester is known for its open curriculum, which can be great if you want to combine political science with economics, data analysis, philosophy, or another field in a self-designed way. It can also be a better environment for a student who prefers a quieter campus experience and more academic customization over a professionally saturated political setting.

For political science alone, GW offers the stronger overall platform because the academics are reinforced by constant real-world exposure. If your priorities include internships, networking, and building momentum toward government or policy work while still in college, GW stands out more clearly.