is FSU Good for Political Science?

January 30, 2025

Yes, FSU is an excellent choice for political science and is one of the top programs in the country.

Why FSU is Strong for Political Science:

Highly Ranked Program
- FSU’s Political Science department is ranked No. 16 in the U.S. for faculty research productivity (American Political Science Association).
- Ranked No. 41 for graduate political science programs (U.S. News & World Report).
Strong Faculty & Research
- Professors are nationally recognized in American politics, comparative politics, public policy, and political theory.
- Opportunities to work with top researchers in political behavior, voting, and governance.
Ideal Location – Tallahassee is Florida’s capital, offering:
- Internships with state government, lawmakers, think tanks, and political campaigns.
- Access to Florida’s Supreme Court, lobbying firms, and public policy organizations.
Pathway to Law & Government Careers
- Many FSU political science graduates go on to law school, government jobs, or political consulting.
- The FSU College of Law is highly ranked, making it a great option for pre-law students.
Public Policy & International Relations Options
- Specialized courses in public administration, international relations, and public policy.
- The FSU Askew School of Public Administration offers strong programs in public affairs.

Best Alternatives in Florida for Political Science:

University of Florida (UF) – Also highly ranked, but lacks Tallahassee’s government access.
University of Miami (UM) – Good for international relations but expensive.
Florida International University (FIU) – Strong for Latin American politics and international studies.

Bottom Line:

FSU is one of the best political science schools in Florida and the U.S. If you’re interested in government, law, or policy, FSU’s location and program make it an excellent choice.

Comprehensive Overview of Florida State University (FSU)

Florida State University (FSU) is a top-tier public research university located in Tallahassee, Florida. Founded in 1851, it is one of the oldest institutions of higher education in the state and is part of the State University System of Florida.

Landis Green is located in the center of the main campus.

Moreover, known for academic excellence, affordability, and strong school spirit, FSU consistently ranks among the top 25 public universities in the United States.

With a diverse student body of over 45,000 students, FSU offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs, along with a strong commitment to research, innovation, and public service. The university has an elite honors program, world-class faculty, and extensive research opportunities, making it an attractive choice for students across the country.

Academic Excellence

A green space near Landis and Gilchrist residence halls, on the main campus. These oak trees became planted by students in 1932.

FSU provides more than 100 undergraduate majors and 200+ graduate degree programs across its 16 colleges. Recognized for its strong programs in business, criminology, psychology, the arts, and STEM fields.

Notable Academic Programs

Business: The College of Business ranked among the top 20 for its risk management and real estate programs.
Criminology: The College of Criminology and Criminal Justice ranked in the top 5 nationally.
Psychology: One of the most popular majors, with strong research facilities and faculty.
Performing Arts & Film: The College of Fine Arts houses the prestigious FSU Film School, ranked among the top film schools in the nation.
STEM & Research: FSU has strong programs in engineering, environmental science, and biomedical research.
Law & Public Policy: Given its proximity to the Florida State Capitol, FSU is an excellent choice for law, government, and political science majors.

FSU is classified as a R1 research university (very high research activity) and receives over $350 million annually in research funding.

Holley Academic Center on Panama City, FL campus.

Furthermore, students enjoy access to state-of-the-art laboratories, field research opportunities, and hands-on learning experiences.

Campus Life & Student Experience

The Robert M. Strozier Library

FSU has a beautiful 1,400-acre campus that blends historic architecture with modern facilities. Located in Tallahassee, the state capital, FSU offers a lively college-town atmosphere with access to political, legal, and business hubs.

Student Organizations & Activities

Student Union, opened 2022

Over 700 student organizations, including cultural clubs, academic societies, and leadership programs.
A strong Greek life, with fraternities and sororities playing a significant role in campus activities.
The Student Union offers entertainment, dining, and social spaces for students.
Outdoor activities include hiking, kayaking, and visiting the nearby Gulf Coast beaches.

FSU’s FAMU-FSU College of Engineering is a joint program with Florida A&M University, providing unique opportunities for students in engineering and technology fields.

Athletics & School Spirit

Marching Chiefs Show

Known for its strong athletic tradition and is part of the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC). In addition, the university’s teams, known as the Florida State Seminoles, are highly competitive in football, basketball, baseball, and track & field.

FSU Football is a storied program with three national championships (1993, 1999, and 2013).
Doak Campbell Stadium, with a capacity of nearly 80,000, is one of the most electric college football environments.
The university’s mascot, Osceola and Renegade, is an iconic symbol of school pride.
Other major sports: Women’s soccer (NCAA champions), baseball, and softball.

FSU Circus tent

FSU students and alumni known for their passionate support of the Seminoles, as a result, making game days a major part of the student experience.

Admissions & Selectivity

FSU has become increasingly selective, with an acceptance rate of around 25-30%. The university looks for high-achieving students with strong GPAs and test scores.

Typical Student Profile for Admitted Freshmen

Average GPA: 4.0-4.4 (weighted)
Average SAT Score: 1250-1390
Average ACT Score: 27-31

FSU offers early action, regular decision, and transfer admissions, with strong support for first-generation college students through programs like FSU CARE (Center for Academic Retention & Enhancement).

Affordability & Financial Aid

Doak Campbell Stadium in Tallahassee, Florida–Home of the Florida State University Seminoles. Additionally, named after former coach Bobby Bowden.

One of FSU’s biggest advantages is its affordability, particularly for Florida residents. The university has become recognized for providing a high-quality education at a low cost.

In-State Tuition: ~$6,500 per year
Out-of-State Tuition: ~$21,000 per year
Bright Futures Scholarship: Many Florida residents attend FSU tuition-free through this program.
Generous merit-based scholarships are available for high-achieving students.

FSU is consistently ranked as a “Best Value College” due to its low tuition, strong academic outcomes, and high job placement rates.

Career Outcomes & Alumni Network

FSU has a strong job placement rate, with 80%+ of graduates securing jobs or entering graduate school within six months. The university has an extensive alumni network, helping students connect with employers across the country.

Top Employers of FSU Graduates

Major corporations: Deloitte, Amazon, Google, Disney, Bank of America, JPMorgan Chase.
Government & Law: Florida Legislature, State Attorney’s Office, U.S. Department of State.
Healthcare & Research: Mayo Clinic, UPMC, HCA Healthcare.
Sports & Entertainment: ESPN, NFL, film production companies.

The FSU Career Center provides resume workshops, networking events, and internship placement programs.

Diversity & Inclusion

FSU became committed to diversity, as a result, boasting a student population including people from all 50 states and over 100 countries.

Hispanic students make up 21% of the undergraduate population, thus, earning FSU recognition as a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI).
The university supports LGBTQ+ students, first-generation college students, and underrepresented minorities through programs like the Center for Leadership & Social Change.

FSU fosters an inclusive and welcoming environment, ensuring that all students feel supported academically and socially.

Final Verdict: Is FSU a Good School?

Absolutely an excellent school! Moreover, Florida State University stands one of the top public universities in the U.S., offering excellent academics, strong research opportunities, and an unbeatable student experience.

Strengths:

Firstly, Affordable tuition and high value for money
Secondly, op-ranked business, criminology, and performing arts programs

Thirdly, close ties to government, law, and research institutions
Fourthly, incredible school spirit and athletic tradition
Lastly, strong job placement and career outcomes

Considerations:

Admissions have become more competitive, requiring strong academics.
Tallahassee is a college town but lacks the urban feel of Miami or Orlando.
Out-of-state tuition is higher, though scholarships are available.

Data Table: Florida State University (FSU) Overview

Category	Details
Location	Tallahassee, Florida
U.S. News Rank (Public)	Top 25 Public Universities
Total Enrollment	~45,000 students
Acceptance Rate	~25-30%
Popular Majors	Business, Criminology, Psychology, Performing Arts
Research Funding	$350+ million annually
In-State Tuition	~$6,500 per year
Out-of-State Tuition	~$21,000 per year
Job Placement Rate	80%+ within six months of graduation
Athletics	NCAA Division I – ACC Conference

Final Verdict

In conclusion, FSU is a great public university, offering strong academics, affordability, research opportunities, and a vibrant student life. Lastly, especially well-known for business, criminology, and the arts. If you’re looking for a high-value education in a warm, energetic environment, FSU is a great choice.