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13 Schools With Strong Political Science Programs in State Capitals
For students interested in government, law, or public policy, location matters. Political science programs based near state capitals often give undergraduates direct access to legislators, agencies, nonprofits, and advocacy groups. These opportunities allow students to move seamlessly between classroom theory and real-world application. Whether through internships, research, or networking, studying political science in a capital city can launch careers in politics, law, or public service.
Here are 13 schools with strong political science programs in state capitals:

Florida State University – Tallahassee, FL
FSU’s political science and public policy programs benefit from direct access to Florida’s state government. Students regularly engage in internships with legislators, agencies, and political organizations.
University of Texas at Austin – Austin, TX
UT Austin’s top-tier political science department connects students with Texas policymakers and public affairs research. Its location in Austin provides unparalleled access to internships, policy think tanks, and advocacy organizations.
University of Wisconsin–Madison – Madison, WI
UW–Madison combines academic rigor with practical engagement in Wisconsin’s state capital. Students participate in state government internships and political research projects with faculty mentors.
Arizona State University – Phoenix, AZ
ASU emphasizes state and local politics, public policy, and applied research. The Phoenix location positions students to work directly with Arizona’s government, advocacy groups, and nonprofits.
University of Minnesota–Twin Cities – Minneapolis/St. Paul, MN
Located in the Twin Cities, the university gives students access to Minnesota’s political institutions and community engagement programs. Opportunities include internships at the state capitol and with regional organizations.
University of Georgia – Athens, GA
While located in Athens, UGA maintains strong connections to Atlanta’s state government and political networks. Students secure internships in legislative offices, advocacy organizations, and state agencies.
University of Maryland, College Park – College Park, MD
Just outside Washington, D.C., Maryland students benefit from a unique combination of state, local, and federal opportunities. The program emphasizes research and internships in public policy and governance.
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill – Raleigh, NC
UNC’s location near Raleigh provides access to North Carolina’s state government. Students pursue internships, policy research, and community projects that prepare them for careers in public service.
Michigan State University – Lansing, MI
Michigan State offers a strong political science program with a focus on experiential learning. Students gain access to Lansing’s state government through internships, research, and policy-focused projects.
University of Nebraska–Lincoln – Lincoln, NE
UNL’s proximity to Nebraska’s legislature enables students to participate in hands-on political research and state government internships. Faculty guide students in applying political theory to real policy challenges.
Indiana University Bloomington – Near Indianapolis, IN
IU Bloomington pairs strong political science and public affairs programs with opportunities in Indianapolis. Students gain practical experience through internships with state government and civic organizations.
University of Colorado Boulder – Denver, CO
CU Boulder connects students with Colorado’s political institutions in Denver. Internships, research opportunities, and public policy engagement are central to the program.
University of Kentucky – Lexington, KY
UK’s political science program emphasizes applied learning, supported by access to Frankfort’s state government. Students pursue internships, research, and policy analysis projects in Kentucky’s capital.