Political Science
Are you interested in the political issues or healthcare, justice, security, peace, minority rights, privacy or the environment nationally or abroad? If you want to explore these issues and prepare for a lifetime of civic engagement, then political science may be the major for you!
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Political science includes the study of individual and group political behavior, governing institutions and public policy. It uses a variety of qualitative and quantitative methods to study issues at the local, national and global levels. Few aspects of life are unaffected by politics; therefore, political science is an effective means for a broad preparation for life.
Experience off campus and across continents
An advanced internship program offers numerous opportunities for on-the-job
experience in an executive or legislative office, a nongovernmental agency, an Eau Claire city or county office, a political campaign or with interest groups — while earning up to six credits. Students can also participate in an active, on-campus Model United Nations Club or study abroad while earning credits toward their major or minor in one of the 13 countries to pick from.
Research
Faculty-student collaborative research work in political science has recently explored such topics as the Muslim Americans Public Opinion after 9/11, and the Impact of Late Night Comedy on Public Opinion. The strong education and valuable out of classroom experience have produced four Fulbright award winners from the Political Science department.
Innovative classes
The University is a member of the Inter-University consortium for Political and Social Research, which gives the department access to a range of survey and census data. Students in public opinion and voting classes gain valuable experience as they analyze some of this data in computer labs. We offer the advantage of small classes and personal attention where one-on-one discussions are vital to learning.
Majors
Political Science
- liberal arts
- teaching
Comprehensive majors
Majors require no minor - Legal Studies
- World Politics
Minors
Political Science- liberal arts
- teaching
Suggested freshman curriculum
- American National Politics
- Intro to College Writing
- Intro to World Politics
- Natural science general
education course
- Physical education/
wellness
- Social science general
education elective
- Math competency
- Humanities general
education course
- Communications
general education
elective
More advising information
Did you know?
We send a high percentage of our graduates to law school and graduate programs. Many graduates earn law degrees at UW-Madison, the University of Minnesota, Harvard, Yale and other prestigious universities.Our graduates
Typical positions held by political science graduates include political lobbyist, legislative aide, public sector administrator, campaign manager/consultant, and secondary teacher or college professor.
More career information
Places you’ll find recent graduates:
- Analyst, U.S. Government
Accountability Office,
Washington, D.C.
- Attorney, Thomas M. Canan,
Attorney at Law,
Minneapolis, MN
- Account Executive, Edelman
Public Relations Worldwide,
Washington D.C.
- Senior Counsel,
Target Corporation,
Minneapolis, MN
- Regional Director, Girl
Scouts of the Northwestern
Great Lakes
- Survey Analyst, Opinion
Dynamics Corporation
Department contact information
Geoffrey D. Peterson
petersgd@uwec.edu
715-836-5744
