School of Politics, Philosophy, and Public Affairs
Investigation. Analysis. Impact.
Join a dynamic community of critical thinkers dedicated to deepening our understanding of politics and society. You’ll develop strengths in logic and ethics and bring together communications technologies with research methodologies to address real-world problems.
Faculty across political science, philosophy, and public affairs bring a wide range of expertise to the classroom and mentor students in hands-on research that explores pressing global and local issues.
At WSU, you’ll find a collaborative learning environment and meaningful opportunities to apply your knowledge in service to society and the public good
Featured Courses
Military Ethics (PHIL 390)
Explore war and moral injury, coming home for military members, women in war and ethics and orders.
Philosophy of Mind (PHIL 442)
Address a variety of interconnected philosophical questions about the mind. Including what mental states are, how the mind relates to the body, and what exactly it takes to think and have conscious experiences
School of Politics, Philosophy, and Public Affairs in the News
Sociology’s Hafiz wins CAS 3MT Qualifier
Six competitors vied to represent the College of Arts and Sciences in the 3 Minute Thesis qualifier round on March 5th in Goertzen Hall.
Honors College alum Jeffrey Franks returns to Pullman to receive Alumni Achievement Award
Jeffrey Franks’ return to Washington State University this week to receive the Alumni Achievement Award was a homecoming for the Pullman native whose career has spanned more than 70 countries and placed him at the center of major international economic decisions.
What happened to shame in politics?
Carolyn Long, professor in civic education and public civility at WSU-Vancouver, was interviewed on WBUR’s “On Point” about the role of shame in American politics.
Michael Reisig receives 2025 WSUAA Alumni Achievement Award
Michael Reisig (’92, ’96), professor of criminology and criminal justice, has received a 2025 Alumni Achievement Award from the Washington State University Alumni Association (WSUAA).