Top 15 Political Science Universities in Europe

Where to Study Political Science: The 15 Best Universities in Europe

European universities offer strong academic foundations in political science. Tuition fees are lower compared to the United States, while the degree programs remain competitive and globally recognized.

Cities like Paris, Berlin, Amsterdam, and Rome provide high-level education and exposure to dynamic political landscapes. Professors bring international expertise and lead with research and field experience, shaping programs that address current global challenges.

These programs often reflect diverse perspectives and include partnerships with think tanks, NGOs, and EU institutions to give students real-world insights into governance, diplomacy, and public policy.

Language options vary, with many top programs taught in English. Campuses are located in cities with active political scenes, rich history, and student-friendly cultures. Classrooms encourage debate, analysis, and independent thinking. Graduates are well-prepared for roles in government, NGOs, media, or academic research.

University rankings measure academic strength, student satisfaction, and professional outcomes. Language options include English, French, German, and others, making the programs accessible to international students. A political science degree from one of these institutions can lead to careers in civil service, journalism, international organizations, and beyond.

If you are looking for a university that combines academic rigor with global relevance, Europe is the right place to start. Below are 15 of the best universities to consider for a degree in political science across the continent.

1. Sciences Po – Paris, France

Sciences Po is renowned for its multidisciplinary approach to political science, integrating economics, sociology, history, law, and the humanities side of political science.

Programs Offered: Bachelor’s in Humanities and Social Sciences with a focus on Political Science
Languages: English and French
Specializations: Political Science and Government, Humanistic Political Science, Economics and Society

Strengths

Curriculum: Courses include Comparative Politics, International Political Economy, and Political Philosophy.
International Exposure: Regional minors allow for geographic specialization (for example, Asia-Pacific, Latin America).
Location Advantage: Campuses are located in politically significant cities across France.
Tuition Fees: Fees vary based on family income. Scholarships and financial aid are available. Visit the website for full details.

2. University of Oxford – Oxford, United Kingdom

The University of Oxford offers a rigorous program in Politics, Philosophy, and Economics (PPE), fostering critical analysis of political systems and theories.

Programs Offered: Bachelor of Arts in PPE
Language: English
Specializations: Political Theory, Comparative Government, International Relations

Strengths

Faculty Expertise: Access to leading scholars and researchers in political science.
Alumni Network: Graduates include global leaders and prominent policymakers.
Location Advantage: Historic campus with rich academic traditions.
Tuition Fees: Around £9,250 per year for UK students. International fees vary. Visit the website for full details.

3. The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) – London, United Kingdom

LSE is globally recognized for its focus on social sciences, offering comprehensive programs in politics and international relations.

Programs Offered: Bachelor of Science in Politics and International Relations
Language: English
Specializations: Global Politics, Political Theory, Public Policy

Strengths

Curriculum: Strong focus on analytical and research skills applicable to global political issues.
International Exposure: Diverse student body and global networking opportunities.
Location Advantage: Located in central London, near major political institutions.
Tuition Fees: Around £9,250 per year for UK students. Fees for international students vary. Visit the website for full details.

4. John Cabot University – Rome, Italy

John Cabot University offers an American-style education in the heart of Rome, emphasizing the study of political structures and international affairs.

Programs Offered: Bachelor’s in Political Science
Language: English
Specializations: International Relations, Political Theory, Comparative Politics

Strengths

Career Support: Internship programs with organizations such as the UN and the U.S. Embassy.
Alumni Network: Graduates have pursued further studies at institutions like Columbia University.
Location Advantage: Close to international organizations and historical political sites.
Tuition Fees: Fees vary by program. Scholarships and financial aid are available. Visit the website for full details.

5. University of Bologna – Bologna, Italy

Considered the oldest university in the Western world, the University of Bologna has a longstanding tradition in political science education, focusing on contemporary political and social issues.

Programs Offered: Bachelor’s in Political, Social and International Sciences
Languages: Italian and English
Specializations: International Relations, Political Theory, Public Administration

Strengths

Curriculum: Interdisciplinary approach combining political science, sociology, and economics.
International Exposure: Opportunities for exchange programs and international collaborations.
Location Advantage: Historic campus with a vibrant student community.
Tuition Fees: Fees are income-based. Scholarships and financial aid are available. Visit the website for full details.

6. Bocconi University – Milan, Italy

Bocconi University offers a Bachelor’s in International Politics and Government, focusing on the evolution of social, economic, and political systems from a global perspective.

Programs Offered: Bachelor of Science in International Politics and Government
Language: English
Specializations: International Politics, Government, Policy Analysis

Strengths

Curriculum: Interdisciplinary approach integrating political science, economics, and law.
International Exposure: Exchange programs and overseas internships available.
Location Advantage: Located in Milan, a hub for international business and politics.
Tuition Fees: Fees vary based on family income. Scholarships and financial support available. Visit the website for full details.

7. Technical University of Munich (TUM) – Munich, Germany

TUM’s political science program combines political science with a strong emphasis on quantitative methods and empirical research.

Programs Offered: Bachelor of Science in Political Science
Language: German
Specializations: Comparative Politics, Policy Analysis, Political Economy

Strengths

Curriculum: Focus on empirical research methods and data analysis.
Faculty Expertise: Access to interdisciplinary research and academic collaboration.
Location Advantage: Located in Munich, near political institutions and research centers.
Tuition Fees: No tuition fees. Semester contribution around €144.40. Visit the website for full details.

8. Free University of Berlin – Berlin, Germany

The Department of Political and Social Sciences at Freie Universität Berlin is known for its advanced research programs and interdisciplinary approach.

Programs Offered: Bachelor’s in Political Science
Language: German
Specializations: International Relations, Political Theory, Comparative Politics

Strengths

Curriculum: Focus on research and critical analysis of political systems.
International Exposure: Exchange programs and international collaborations.
Location Advantage: Located in Berlin with access to governmental and international organizations.
Tuition Fees: No tuition fees. Semester contribution around €312.89. Visit the website for full details.

9. University of Amsterdam – Amsterdam, Netherlands

The political science program at UvA offers a broad perspective on politics, integrating multiple viewpoints and practical applications.

Programs Offered: Bachelor of Science in Political Science
Language: English
Specializations: International Relations, Political Economy, Comparative Politics

Strengths

Curriculum: Focus on contemporary political issues and critical thinking.
International Exposure: Diverse student body and global perspectives.
Location Advantage: Based in Amsterdam with access to international institutions and NGOs.
Tuition Fees: Annual fee for EU/EEA students: €2,601. Non-EU student fees are higher. Visit the website for full details.

10. University of Cambridge – Cambridge, United Kingdom

The Department of Politics and International Studies (POLIS) at the University of Cambridge offers comprehensive programs in political theory, comparative politics, and international relations.

Programs Offered: Bachelor of Arts in Human, Social, and Political Sciences (HSPS)
Language: English
Specializations: Politics and International Relations, Sociology, Social Anthropology

Strengths

Curriculum: Interdisciplinary structure with the option to specialize in later years.
Faculty Expertise: Access to renowned researchers and advanced academic resources.
Location Advantage: Historic university town with a rich academic tradition.
Tuition Fees: Annual fees for international students: £38,000. For local students: £9,250. Visit the website for full details.

11. The Autonomous University of Barcelona – Barcelona, Spain

UAB offers a degree in Political Science and Public Administration, emphasizing international experience through internships and exchange programs.

Programs Offered: Bachelor’s in Political Science and Public Administration
Languages: Spanish, Catalan, and English
Specializations: Public Administration, International Relations

Strengths

Curriculum: Focus on public administration and international relations.
International Exposure: Erasmus collaborations with 85 European universities.
Location Advantage: Located in Barcelona in a dynamic political and cultural setting.
Tuition Fees: Around €27.67 per credit for EU students. Scholarships and financial aid are available. Visit the website for full details.

12. Pompeu Fabra University (UPF) – Barcelona, Spain

UPF’s degree in Political and Administrative Sciences blends political science with economics, law, history, and sociology, preparing students for careers in politics and public administration.

Programs Offered: Bachelor’s in Political and Administrative Sciences
Languages: Catalan, Spanish, and English
Specializations: Political Analysis, Public Policy

Strengths

Curriculum: Interdisciplinary approach with a strong theoretical foundation.
International Exposure: Opportunities for academic exchanges and global collaborations.
Location Advantage: Located on the Ciutadella campus, near political institutions.
Tuition Fees: Fees vary by program. Scholarships and financial aid are available. Visit the website for full details.

13. University of Zagreb – Zagreb, Croatia

The Faculty of Political Science at the University of Zagreb, founded in 1962, is the oldest institution for political science education and research in this part of Europe.

Programs Offered: Bachelor’s in Political Science
Language: Croatian
Specializations: Comparative Politics, International Relations

Strengths

Curriculum: Comprehensive program covering various aspects of political science.
International Exposure: Study abroad opportunities and international collaborations.
Location Advantage: Located in Zagreb, Croatia’s political and administrative center.
Tuition Fees: Fees vary by course. Scholarships and financial support are available. Visit the website for full details.

14. University of Lisbon – Lisbon, Portugal

The School of Social and Political Sciences at the University of Lisbon offers a degree in Political Science aimed at training professionals in political analysis, electoral consulting, and public administration.

Programs Offered: Bachelor’s in Political Science
Language: Portuguese
Specializations: Political Analysis, Public Policy

Strengths

Curriculum: Emphasis on technical skills for political analysis and consulting.
International Exposure: Internship opportunities and partnerships with political institutions.
Location Advantage: Based in Lisbon with direct access to national political institutions.
Tuition Fees: Around €697 per year for EU students and €3,750 for international students. Visit the website for full details.

15. University of Luxembourg – Luxembourg City, Luxembourg

The Institute of Political Science at the University of Luxembourg is well known for its research on EU economic governance, political economy, and multilevel governance.

Programs Offered: Master’s in European Governance
Language: English
Specializations: European Integration, Policy Making

Strengths

Curriculum: Focus on political science related to the European Union.
International Exposure: Part of the Jean Monnet Centre of Excellence and Europaeum network.
Location Advantage: Based in Luxembourg, close to key EU institutions.
Tuition Fees: Fees vary by program. Scholarships and financial aid are available. Visit the website for full details.

Final Thoughts

Choosing where to study political science in Europe really comes down to what kind of experience you’re looking for.

Perhaps you see yourself diving into EU policy and international law in the heart of Brussels or Luxembourg. Maybe you're drawn to the lively political scenes in cities like Berlin, Amsterdam, or Rome. Some students look for English-taught programs in global hubs like London or Milan, while others prefer studying in historic universities with centuries-old traditions.

Each university on this list offers a different academic flavor, cultural setting, and professional outlook. What they all have in common is a commitment to critical thinking, open debate, and real-world application.

Plus, with so many programs offered in English and a mix of affordable tuition and scholarships, studying political science in Europe is definitely a good decision for international students.

So if you're ready to study how power works, how decisions get made, and how you can be part of shaping tomorrow’s policies, Europe’s political science programs are a solid place to start. Take some time to explore each school, check their course offerings, and see which one feels like the right fit for your goals as well as budget.

Happy studying abroad!