International Studies, Public Policy, Political Science: differences?

<p>I'm interested in all three of these majors -- could someone elaborate on the pros and cons of majoring in each of these at Duke?</p>

<p>I'll just go with an overview and my own opinions (disclaimer: I'm a PPS major, thus a bit biased)</p>

<p>ICS - often not considered a "real" major. There are two core ICS courses, and the rest are in other departments and from an approved list. It's often a 2nd major.</p>

<p>PPS - Stimulating and tough...and worth it. All 100 level classes are curved to a 3.2 (not as harsh as sciences, but remember you're being graded on WRITING), so be prepared to work. The interdisciplinary nature of the major and the quality of students and professors is great. I've taken only "core" courses so far, and they have been some of my favorite courses here at Duke. My political analysis class has stuck with me - I still find myself using what I learned in that class on a day to day basis. My ethics in policy choice has helped me examine my own beliefs on healthcare, war, and genetics/bio-ethics. This is poli sci for the real world - it's learning about decision-making processes, about collective action failure, symbolic politics, rational choice....plus you take microeconomics and stat, giving PPS majors a solid background for work in politics, law, philanthropic organizations, or anything that requires working with groups of people (i.e. any profession). There is also and internship component for the major, and the coordinator is incredible - she goes out of her way to help you with your resume and get you the internship you want! Also, the majors union brings in all sorts of speakers and coordinates career talks with PPS professors (particularly those with extensive work in the political sphere). </p>

<p>Poli Sci - A great department, but this year a number of profs were on sabbatical - friends of mine expressed dismay at being unable to get the few good professors as sophs. Also, in my PPS advisor's opinion (Bruce Jentleson), poli sci has become far too theoretical in the past few years. Note that this is more of an opinion on the field of study in general vs. Duke's Political Science department.</p>

<p>Lex, can you talk to me a little bit about a shift that some students have been noticing in the PPS department - moving away from pure policy/economics questions and towards a more leftist, activist bent?</p>

<p>Is this a real shift, or is it just rumors?</p>

<p>For the record, I'm a graduating senior, so it doesn't affect me - but I am curious.</p>