Bernie Sanders educational qualification: How this political science graduate rose from Brooklyn to US Senate stardom
Bernie Sanders, a significant figure in American politics and the longest-serving independent member in U.S. congressional history, has built his career on a foundation of education and activism.
Born in Brooklyn, New York, Sanders' early life experiences and academic background influenced his commitment to social justice and progressive policies, which continue to shape his political agenda.
Sanders is widely known for his recent endorsement of Zohran Mamdani for New York City Mayor in 2025, as well as his continued advocacy for initiatives such as tuition-free college. His educational journey, marked by a shift from Brooklyn College to the University of Chicago, played a critical role in forming his political beliefs and activism.
Early life and high school years in Brooklyn
Bernie Sanders was born on September 8, 1941, into a financially constrained household in Brooklyn. His upbringing exposed him to the realities of income inequality, which later became a central theme in his political career. Sanders attended James Madison High School, an institution that counts notable figures like Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Chuck Schumer among its alumni.
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During high school, Sanders was active in student activities, including running track and campaigning for class president on a platform aimed at raising scholarship funds for Korean War orphans.
Although he did not win the election, his early activism was evident.
Transition to higher education and political awakening
In 1959, Sanders began his college education at Brooklyn College, where he spent a year. Following the death of his mother, he transferred to the University of Chicago in 1960.
This move marked a significant turning point in his life, both academically and politically. Initially majoring in English, Sanders soon switched to political science. His studies included influential thinkers such as Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln, Karl Marx, Friedrich Engels, Eugene Debs, and Leon Trotsky.
He described his time at Chicago as a 'major period of intellectual ferment' and preferred community activism over traditional academics, which he found unengaging.
Student activism and civil rights involvement
At the University of Chicago, Sanders was deeply involved in the civil rights movement. He served as chairman of the university's chapter of the Congress of Racial Equality (CORE) and took part in sit-ins that led to reforms in housing policies. Additionally, Sanders joined organisations such as the Young People's Socialist League and the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee.
He participated in the historic 1963 March on Washington, experiences that helped shape his worldview beyond formal education.
He graduated in 1964 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science.
A career grounded in education and social equity
Sanders' educational background and early activism laid the groundwork for his lifelong dedication to social equity. His push for tuition-free public colleges, as exemplified by his College for All Act, reflects his belief that higher education should be accessible to all.
This principle continues to influence his political work, including his endorsements and legislative efforts.
From his beginnings in Brooklyn through his studies and activism in Chicago to his rise as a U.S. Senator, Bernie Sanders' career path illustrates the impact of education combined with social commitment.
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