Best Study Abroad Cities for Political Science Students

--> When deciding where to study abroad, it’s always a good idea to consider locations that will enhance and supplement your academic studies. For example, a student who is majoring in art history would both enjoy and benefit from studying abroad in Paris, France, or some other city with a rich history in the arts. By choosing a city or region that promotes an industry that involves the subject you are studying, you will be able to observe the subject as it applies to the real world; a learning experience that is highly valuable and useful.

For political science majors who are interested in studying abroad, the choices are endless, because government is everywhere. However, there are some locations that could be considered more significant and educational, in terms of both historical and current politics. Below are four of those locations, and why they are such great choices for political science students who are studying abroad.

Brasilia, Brazil 

Brazil has only recently begun to enjoy political stability, in terms of presidential leadership. As a democratic republic, the country practices a form of government that was modeled after the United States’ system. Its capital city, Brasilia, is a great place for political science students to learn about current political, economic and social events in the region, because it is the governmental headquarters of a country that has the strongest and fastest-growing economy in South America and the world. If you are a political science student who is especially interested in South American politics and developing nations, Brasilia is a good study abroad location.

Brussels, Belgium

Brussels is the capital of Belgium, but it is also the de facto capital of the European Union. It is also very close to other important political capitals in Europe, including Amsterdam, Berlin, Bern, London, Luxembourg and Paris. Brussels (and Europe, in general) is an especially valuable place for

political science students, because the continent has always played a major role in the development of governments and international politics. Many historical wars were fought in Europe, the first democracy was formed there (in Greece) and the current political environment is especially relevant to the global economic recession and the future of world politics.

Beijing, China 

China is a communist nation, so its capital, Beijing, is the perfect place for political science students to learn more about this form of government. Although most communist nations have failed, China has succeeded well under its unique political scheme, which has been described by its leaders as “socialism with Chinese characteristics.” China has the second largest economy in the world, in terms of GDP. It is believed that the country may someday soon surpass the United States as the most economically and militarily powerful country in the world. China also has a fascinating political past that many students would find interesting.

Washington, D.C., United States 

Last but not least, the capital of the United States of America is one of the best places for political science students to observe democracy in action. The city is both politically and culturally vibrant and is also just a short train ride away from other historically significant U.S. cities, such as Baltimore, New York City and Philadelphia. The United States has been the center of international politics since the end of World War II, and it is still the strongest nation in the world, in terms of economics and military power. If you are interested in learning more about the history and current political climate of this remarkable country, consider studying abroad in Washington, D.C.

For more information about studying in one of these four great political capitals, visit your university’s study abroad center today.

Lauren Bailey is a freelance blogger for BestCollegesOnline.com. Her articles cover topics related to trends in education, student advice and teaching methods, and in her spare time, she works as a Spanish tutor to non-traditional students. You may reach her with your questions or comments at blauren99@gmail.com.