Pushing the Boundaries of the Discipline

The mission of the Political Science program is to push forward the boundaries of the discipline, and train graduate and undergraduate students to consume and produce sophisticated modern empirical and theoretical research. The rigorous methodological graduate training that students receive at UC Merced places them at the leading edge of the social sciences. We use a unique approach to graduate training, focused on Political Institutions & Political Economy (PIPE) and Political Cognition & Behavior (CAB), guaranteeing that students will have a comprehensive and creative understanding of politics. We believe in interdisciplinary research, crossing boundaries and finding new frontiers, so students are also encouraged to work with faculty from other disciplines such as cognitive science, psychology, economics, and sociology to enrich their education.

Featured News

March 26, 2026

Politcal Science Professor Christopher Ojeda was interviewed by KNX News 97.1 FM Los Angeles to discuss his book, "The Sad Citizen: How Politics Is Depressing and Why It Matters”....

Depicted is the sun in an orange sky framed by palm leaves.
March 17, 2026

Temperatures in the 90s are nothing new to the northern San Joaquin Valley. But having them in March, as expected this week, is unusual and potentially dangerous. An exceptionally strong ridge of...

Several people, including graduates of UC Merced Professional Certificate in California Government and Policy program, plus faculty, staff and friends.
March 16, 2026

The inner machinery of democracy in California – from bills and lobbying to courts and elections – is revealed in a professional certification program launched at the University of California, Merced...

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Our Faculty

One of the great strengths of political science at UC Merced is its faculty. We are dedicated to building a faculty of cutting-edge researchers and top-rate instructors.

At the Cutting Edge

Our faculty and students are at the forefront of innovative political science research. Our community celebrates publications, awards, presentations, and guest lectures.

Join Us

If you are interested in studying and working with leading scholars in Political Science, consider our program. Reach out to poligrad@ucmerced.edu for more information. 

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