UPenn or Notre Dame for a Political Science major

My intended major is political science for the class of 2022. Which school has a stronger political science major? Does it increase my chances applying ED to Penn or EA to Notre Dame and which do you recommend because I like both of these schools? Also, which AP classes do you think would help in college admissions for a potential PolySci major?

Thank you!

ND is a very strong school in Poli Sci and has a very large faculty. I’m sure Penn is good too.

The issue with ND is there is a certain type of profile it wants. Captain of a sports team, lots of community service, some role in your parish, etc. All these are important in addition to high test scores and grades.

I think it’s close but ND in ungrad humanities is tough to beat.

Based on the strengths of their political science programs only, Notre Dame.

Thank you! I know both schools are very difficult to get into but do you think it will increase my chances applying EA/ED?

Doubtful unless you are legacy. Another to consider is Villanova, big time Poli Sci school, if you want another like Notre Dame.

For the best chances of getting into one, you can apply ED to Penn and EA to Notre Dame.

ND has restrictive EA. You cannot apply to a binding ED program.

IMO both schools would be excellent choices. But they present very different environments. Think about which school would provide the type of place you want to be for the next 4 years.

Midwest v Northeast
Suburban v Urban
Catholic v Secular
Big time sports v lower key sports
Residence halls (where you stay for 4 years) v more traditional dorm setup
No Greek Life v Greek Life available if desired