Is Georgia or Maryland better for studying political science as an undergraduate?

The biggest practical difference is location: the University of Maryland places political science students within easy reach of Washington, D.C., while the University of Georgia offers a more traditional flagship-campus experience with access to Georgia state politics and Atlanta. Maryland students can pursue internships during the academic year with federal agencies, congressional offices, advocacy groups, think tanks, and international organizations.

At Maryland, the Government and Politics department is especially well positioned for students interested in national policy, elections, international relations, public service, or policy research. College Park also has access to Maryland’s state government in Annapolis.

Georgia’s School of Public and International Affairs is a strong home for students drawn to American politics, public administration, law, political communication, and Southern or state-level policy. Athens provides the classic college-town environment, while Atlanta offers internships with state government, campaigns, nonprofits, media, and businesses. UGA can be particularly compelling for a Georgia resident because lower in-state cost may make graduate school, law school, or unpaid public-service internships more financially manageable.

Maryland has the edge for students seeking frequent access to national political and policy careers. Georgia is more attractive when its cost is meaningfully lower or when you prefer a flagship experience centered on Georgia and regional public affairs rather than the Washington, D.C. ecosystem.