<p>I know many of you are tired about discussions about Poli Sci programs, but from my searches throughout this site, I am still unsure of which UC truly has the better program. Some say UCSD is ranked higher while some say it is UCLA. Does UCLA have a higher ranking for this on some lists just because it is considered an overall better school? I got into both schools but am now unsure as to which school I should attend for this major. Any response is thanked in advance!! :)</p>
<p>Sounds like a toss up. If the poli sci depts are really that close, focus on which school overall is the best fit for you--location, culture, housing, clubs, etc. You're actual poli sci experience may hinge on random factors such as which profs you get and which classes fit into your schedule. And what if you decide ppoli sci isn't for you after all? Which school gives you better non-poli-sci options?</p>
<p>Talk to UCLAri, he might have a closer insight than most.</p>
<p>UCLA is the most known so any degree from there would be excellent to have!!! I do know that they have a great poli sci department! I dont know if its better than UCSD?? Why wouldnt you want to go to college in LA!!!?????</p>
<p>Based on peer rankings and publication impact / volume, it appears clear that UCSD has a superior program.</p>
<p>General political science:
US News:
7. UCSD (4.4)
10. UCLA (4.2)</p>
<p>Hix</a> Ranking:
6. UCSD
14. UCLA</p>
<p>For academic international relations:
IR</a> Scholar Survey:
9. UCSD (102)
17. UCLA (42)</p>
<p>US News:
6. UCSD
14. UCLA</p>
<p>For policy-oriented international relations (IR survey):
10. UCSD (30)</p>
<p>For American Politics (US News):
6. UCSD
15. UCLA</p>
<p>For Comparative Politics (US News):
3. UCSD
5. UCLA</p>
<p>For Political Methodology / Quant (US News):
7. UCSD
14. UCLA</p>
<p>For Political Theory (US News):
13. UCLA</p>
<p>And for undergraduate political science majors?</p>
<p>There is no good direct ranking of undergraduate political science programs. That said, the faculty and graduate strength of an institution is a very good proxy for measuring the quality of the undergraduate major. To be sure, distinguishing between schools close in departmental quality often comes down to factors unique to undergrads, but in this case I believe it is pretty clear that UCSD's program is superior, based on its significantly greater academic strength.</p>
<p>I wonder what UCLAri would have to say about this. Where is that guy?</p>
<p>UCSD is generally considered the stronger poli sci program. UCLA has some big names (Zaller, Tsebellis, O'Neill), but UCSD is generally a more vibrant and dynamic department. They have Gary Cox, Arend Lijphart, Matt McCubbins, and Susan Shirk to name a few. Really amazing department. </p>
<p>Very quantitative in focus though, in case you didn't know. </p>
<p>However, for overall program strength- especially where non-major classes are concerned- UCLA is the stronger undergraduate program in my opinion. </p>
<p>If it came down to getting my PhD, I'd choose UCSD over UCLA. In fact, I didn't even apply to UCLA for my MA. But for a BA, I'd say go with the program you feel better with. There are plenty of well-known professors at UCLA, and the department is well-known in the community. You also have one of the largest history departments in the nation, and a vibrant city and academic community to tap into. Although I plan on getting my PhD at UCSD, I'd go back to UCLA for undergrad again anyday.</p>