Political Science News and Spotlights

Check out photos of our amazing graduates!

The SHSU Ring Ceremony is a proud Bearkat tradition, celebrating the hard work and dedication of students as they receive their official class rings.

Hailing from Belton, Texas, Emily Linklater came to Sam Houston State University with a clear purpose to pursue a career rooted in service, advocacy and making a difference in people’s lives. Now graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice and minors in History, Psychology and Political Science, she is leaving SHSU with not only an impressive academic record but a powerful sense of direction.

Linklater chose SHSU for its strong reputation in criminal justice and the opportunity to be part of a close-knit campus community...

Sam Houston State University held its third annual Giving Day from April 21-22. This year, new and returning supporters blasted past previous-year totals, reaching over $564,000 from 870 gifts. Marking another year of outstanding support for the university.

Raven's Call at Sam Houston State University honors and celebrates students, faculty, staff and alumni who have passed away, fostering remembrance and community unity.

Sam Houston State University's prestigious annual awards night, The Sammys, brought together some of the best and brightest Bearkat students, faculty and staff for a night of celebration.

Awards are given to individuals, colleges and organizations; each honoree was nominated for their outstanding service to the university community. The breakdown of awards and the criteria for recipients is as follows...

Sam Houston State University boasts a high percentage of first-generation and non-traditional students eager to make their mark on the world. Before they can hit the ground running, however, they need someone to show them the ropes. That’s where student orientation leaders like Alyssa Rodriguez thrive.

“Before choosing Sam, I took a tour of campus through a program that assists first-gen high school students aspiring to go to college,” said Rodriguez, a junior political science major and McNair Scholar. “I vividly remember the first person I connected with here: my orientation leader. I always looked up to her and she set the standard for me.” ...

View photos of campus in the spring.

Sam Houston State University hosted its commencement ceremonies on Dec. 12-13.

SHSU Climbs to No. 58 in Newsweek’s 2025 America’s Top Online Colleges Rankings

Sam Houston State University (SHSU) has once again been recognized as a leader in online education, earning the No. 58 spot in Newsweek’s America’s Top Online Colleges 2025 rankings—a significant jump from No. 102 in 2024...

Sam Houston State Ranks Among Top Colleges in Nation, State

Sam Houston State University has been ranked No. 231 in the nation and ninth in Texas in the 2026 Best U.S. Colleges rankings by The Wall Street Journal and College Pulse.

SHSU placed ahead of all other Texas State University System institutions in the annual ranking, which evaluates colleges based on student outcomes and learning environment...