Understanding politics, policy, and administration means understanding people. At NAU, you’ll learn to analyze issues from multiple perspectives and lead with insight, empathy, and purpose.
Politics, policy, and administration are central to everyday life; from the headlines we read to the choices we make as communities and nations. Whether you’re drawn to local government, international relations, public policy, public administration, or advocacy, as a Politics and International Affairs major, you’ll examine the systems that influence how societies work, how to manage government organizations, and how they can be improved.
Through research, applied projects, connections with community, and discussion, you’ll investigate how decisions are made, how government organizations run, movements take shape, and how ideas are implemented into policy . The skills and experience you gain will prepare you for a career where thoughtful leadership and global outlook are needed: government, public administration, public policy, election science,, law, education, nonprofits, and more.
At NAU, studying politics, policy, and administration means understanding the bigger picture: how local decisions connect to global challenges, and how individuals can shape both. From immigration to Indigenous governance to climate policy and civic leadership, you’ll gain the tools to understand and influence the world around you.
Through small, discuss-based classes and faculty mentorship, you’ll gain a deep understanding of the theory, principles, and practice of government at the local, national, and global levels through study and peer collaboration. In addition, you learn from leading scholars in online education in one of our public administration programs geared towards working professionals.
At NAU’s Department of Politics and International Affairs, you will:
From national competitions to local debates, student organizations and an Experience of Difference requirement make the study of politics and administration hands-on and immediately applicable at NAU. These experiences turn theory into practice and prepare you to lead with insight and integrity.
As an undergraduate in the Department of Politics and International Affairs at NAU, you’ll complete an Experience of Difference. This may include studying abroad, participating in an election administration fellowship, interning in government or law, conducting original research, or taking part in collaborative projects that simulate real-world policy challenges.
Our Election Administration program offers both undergraduate and graduate certificates designed to expand access to election administration careers while building a professional pipeline that benefits both students and the field, preparing future election leaders and supporting election offices that rely on skilled talent. Through a fully online, five-semester undergraduate certificate and a flexible graduate certificate, students gain career-ready preparation grounded in real-world practice. Both certificates are delivered through online coursework with NAU and a statewide collaborative fellowship experience between NAU, Arizona State University, and the University of Arizona, creating a shared commitment to public service across institutions. These certificates are designed not only to educate, but to help sustain democratic systems, especially in rural and underserved communities across Arizona.
At NAU, you’ll find paths designed to be accessible and personal. With affordable tuition, faculty mentors, and experiences that prepare you for the career you want, you can count on individualized support from day one.
As a Politics and International Affairs major at NAU, you’ll have access to the school’s hub for political research and public engagement. At the Richard D. Young Lab, you’ll collaborate with faculty and conduct research that advances understanding of Arizona’s evolving social and political landscape. By connecting rigorous academic methods with real community issues, the lab bridges the gap between research and public service while helping you build critical thinking skills and develop the ability to make informed contributions to Arizona and beyond.
Be part of local government in action through the Stuart and Kari Kent Local Government Fellowship Program. Annually, 2-3 students can apply for a fully funded local government fellowship in a city or county office in Northern Arizona.
Learn from practitioners and faculty in our top 100 nationally-ranked, NASPAA-accredited MPA program or one of its related certificates in tribal governance, data analytics, or election administration.
Dedicated to helping you think deeply about power and purpose, faculty of the Department of Politics and International Affairs will guide you to better understandings of different viewpoints through meaningful dialogue about the issues shaping our shared future. You’ll find that faculty mentorship at NAU is personal and lasting, from research to writing and internships to career planning.
Scholarships and graduate assistantships are available to support your academic journey at NAU. Assistantships typically include tuition support, stipends, and hands-on experience assisting faculty with teaching or research. You can explore scholarships specific to Politics and International Affairs on the Scholarship Universe website.
"Degrees in Politics and International Affairs open a whole world of opportunity for you. You can do anything from becoming a Campaign Strategist to being a Diplomat to being a Lawyer!"
Take the steps to apply to NAU’s Department of Politics and International Affairs and begin shaping the conversations and policies that move our world forward.
Your donation helps students become informed, engaged citizens ready to make a difference. By providing scholarships and global learning opportunities, you’re empowering future leaders to approach complex issues with empathy and purpose.
Explore accredited programs for The Department of Politics and International Affairs.