Since 1923, The mission of the Department of Political Science has been to communicate the knowledge of political science as a scholarly discipline through education of undergraduate and graduate students in the core principles and specialties of political science, and to develop new knowledge in the field through critical research and scholastic inquiry.

Serving over 400 undergraduate majors and 135 minors, we are strongly committed to educational excellence. Our instructors share their passion with students inside and outside the classroom -- working to engage students with coursework, sponsoring campus-wide events, advising student organizations, and mentoring undergraduate researchers. Our students have ample opportunity to serve as interns and to engage in scholarship.

One of our premier opportunities is the Kentucky Legislative Internship Program (KLIP) that provides opportunity for undergraduates to work hands on with our state legislators in Frankfort while also earning class credit. We also offer students the opportunity to work directly with the United States Congress, departments, and agencies, through our program, Wildcats at the Capitol. Working 40 hours a week, students intern in D.C. during an academic semester or summer, earning both University credit and a real understanding of how our government is run.

Our department is committed to equipping students with real-world skills and abilities to not only better the University of Kentucky, but the Commonwealth of Kentucky and beyond. We have much to offer in the ways of academics, community, and achievement and hope you decide to start your journey here.

How to contact the Department of Political Science: 

Department of Political Science
University of Kentucky
1615 Patterson Office Tower
Lexington KY 40506-0027
Phone: 859-257-1772
Fax: 859-257-7034

Department Chair
Emily Beaulieu Bacchus - emily.bacchus@uky.edu

Director of Undergraduate Studies
Bridgett A. King-Bridgett.king@uky.edu

Director of Graduate Studies
Michael Zilis - michael.zilis@uky.edu

Internship Director
Stephen Voss - dsvoss@uky.edu

Publicity Director
Stephen Voss - dsvoss@uky.edu

Department Manager
Kristen Stephenson kristen.stephenson@uky.edu