Which is better for an undergraduate political science major: Syracuse University or George Washington University?

For an undergraduate political science major focused on daily access to national politics, policy internships, and building a Washington network during the school year, George Washington University has the clearer edge. Its location in downtown Washington, D.C. puts students near Congress, federal agencies, advocacy organizations, think tanks, embassies, and political campaigns. GW political science students can pursue internships during fall and spring semesters without leaving campus.

GW fits students who want politics to be part of their everyday environment and are comfortable being proactive. The Department of Political Science in the Columbian College offers strengths across American politics, comparative politics, international relations, and political theory. A student interested in congressional work, elections, public affairs, foreign policy organizations, or federal policy research may find the access unusually useful.

Syracuse is especially compelling for a student who wants a more traditional residential university experience while studying political science through the highly regarded Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs. Maxwell gives undergraduates access to a strong public-policy and social-science culture, with opportunities to learn from faculty and graduate students working in government, public administration, international affairs, and policy research. Syracuse also provides pathways to internships and study in Washington, D.C., including through its DC programs, without requiring students to live in the intensity and expense of the capital full time.

Syracuse may suit someone who values a cohesive campus community, broader school spirit, and a structured academic setting alongside serious policy training. It can be particularly attractive for students considering graduate study, public administration, public policy, or research-oriented political science. GW is likely the more direct choice for a student determined to intern in D.C. throughout college; Syracuse can be the more satisfying home for someone who wants Maxwell’s academic environment and a fuller campus-based undergraduate experience.