Politics and Law
Analyze and respond to society's civic issues by examining today's political and legal questions in our unique program that focuses on public policy and legal systems.
Program Overview
Our students are engaged, thoughtful citizens who explore how culture, social change, and history shape politics and law. Explore complex problems from the role of government in society to the current nature of democracy, freedom, and civil rights.
Take advantage of the flexible curriculum and discover a specific policy or regional area that you are passionate about. From health and international business law to foreign policy, you will collaborate with inspiring faculty and acquire skills to navigate a world shaped by political and legal decisions.
At Bryant, we believe in learning by doing. Politics and Law students participate in internships, practicums, research collaborations with faculty, and student run organizations.
Pre-Law Advisory Program
- Prepare for law school and develop critical thinking, analytical, communication, and negotiation skills.
- Work with a dedicated advisor for guidance and support in selecting courses, applying to law school, and navigating the LSAT.
- Pursue opportunities for experiential learning through internships or volunteer work.
3+3 Juris Doctor
- A partnership with Villanova University provides direct-entry admission of qualified Bryant students to pursue a doctorate of law at Villanova's Charles Widger School of Law.
- You will complete your undergraduate requirements in either three (qualified juniors) or four years at Bryant, before enrolling at Villanova for three years with a guaranteed scholarship.
- Learn more about the 3+3 and 4+3 pathways to pursue a Juris Doctor (J.D.)
Offered as
MajorCollege
College of Arts & SciencesDepartment
Department of Politics, Law, and SocietyMore Information
Course CatalogAdditional Resources
INTERDISCIPLINARY ADVANTAGE
- A strong foundation integrating business, STEM fields and the liberal arts develops critical 21st century skills essential for success and continuous growth in every field.
- Every student graduates with a major and a complementary minor, gaining a competitive advantage that highlights the acumen and problem-solving abilities cultivated through experiential learning.
- Whether you begin a career or continue your education after graduation, Bryant credentials prepare impact thinkers who are in high demand and prepared to contribute and make a difference.

The Bryant Difference
99%
99 percent of Bryant graduates are employed or enrolled in graduate school within six months of Commencement.
No. 7
U.S. News & World Report 2023 Best College rankings list Bryant as No. 7 in the Regional Universities North category.
Top 1% ROI
For lifetime earnings and ROI -- Georgetown University CEW
Where Our Students Go
Graduates of Bryant's Politics and Law program go on to prestigious graduate schools and are in demand by government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and businesses.
Experiential Learning Opportunities
CAREER EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES
- Partner with The Washington Center for semester-long or summer internship opportunities that have included placement in the White House, the FBI, the National Opera House, leading think tanks, and law firms.
- Discuss career opportunities with recruiters from more than 400 organizations.
- Shadow and network with accomplished Politics and Law alumni to explore different paths.
CLUBS/ORGANIZATIONS
- Bryant Debaters
- Bryant Law Society
- Mock Trial Association
- Model United Nations
- Pi Sigma Alpha National Political Science Honor Society
INTERNATIONAL
- Sophomore International Experience
- Learn about war crime trials in European courts in a special summer course led by a Bryant faculty member
RESEARCH
- Politics and Law Capstone research project
- Research and Engagement Day panelist
- Honors Program
- Present original research at the New England Political Science Association Conference
SERVICE
- Alternative Spring Break
Inspired Faculty

Inspired Faculty
Our faculty are award-winning scholars, inspiring educators, and dedicated mentors. They include an expert in U.S. foreign policy, an American politics scholar, a lawyer who worked with the United Nations on the Right to Science initiative, an internationally renowned expert on the impact of the Holocaust on the law and human rights, and a lead author of the report Gauging Equality for the European Union. Among them is:
Associate Professor of Political Science
Address
1150 Douglas Pike
Smithfield, RI 02917
Phone Number
(401) 232-6100
admission@bryant.edu