Political Science
Are you interested in domestic or international political issues, such as healthcare, justice, security, peace, minority rights, privacy or the environment? If you want to explore these issues and prepare for a lifetime of civic engagement, then political science may be the major for you.
Tell me more
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 and they can earn credits toward their major or minor in one of the 13 countries through our study abroad program.
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.
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 and other prestigious universities.Our graduates
Typical positions held by political science graduates include political lobbyist, legislative aide, public section administrator, public relations executive, 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 Council,
Target Corporation,
Minneapolis, MN
Department contact information
Rodd Freitag
freitard@uwec.edu
715-836-5744
