The University of Pennsylvania (commonly referred to as Penn or UPenn) is a private Ivy League research university located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It is one of nine colonial colleges chartered prior to the U.S. Declaration of Independence when Benjamin Franklin, the university's founder and first president, advocated for an educational institution that trained leaders in academia, commerce, and public service. Penn identifies as the fourth-oldest institution of higher education in the United States, though this representation is challenged by other universities. Benjamin Franklin and other Philadelphians established the university in 1749, which would make it the fifth-oldest institution of higher education in the U.S.
The Political Science Department at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, PA, is a leading center for the study of politics, known for its comprehensive approach covering American Politics, Comparative Politics, International Relations, and Political Theory. The department emphasizes both theoretical understanding and rigorous empirical research, creating a dynamic academic environment where faculty are active in cutting-edge scholarship. Students develop strong analytical and critical thinking skills through a curriculum designed to provide a deep understanding of political systems and behavior. This preparation equips graduates for diverse career paths in government, law, business, international organizations, and education, and serves as a solid foundation for further graduate study. The program is consistently recognized among the top in the field.
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