University of Wisconsin–Parkside

What you'll study

This four-year undergraduate programme combines foundational coursework in political theory and American government with applied studies in public policy, international relations and comparative politics. You will take courses that develop quantitative and qualitative research skills, legal and constitutional analysis, and communication for public audiences.

• Core topics: American national and state government, political theory, comparative politics, international relations, public administration and public policy.
• Research and methods: Introduction to political research methods, statistics for the social sciences, research design and data analysis.
• Law and constitutional studies: Constitutional law, civil liberties, and courses that prepare students for pre-law pathways.
• Applied and elective options: Urban and regional politics, environmental policy, campaign politics and elections, political communication, and courses focused on race, gender and politics.
• Experiential learning: Internship placements with local and state government offices, advocacy organisations, campaigns or media outlets; practicum courses and opportunities for supervised undergraduate research.
• Capstone: Upper-level seminar or senior capstone project that integrates theory, empirical work and policy analysis.

Programme structure

Students complete general education requirements alongside a sequence of lower-division and upper-division major courses. Early semesters focus on introductory theory and methods; later semesters emphasise specialised electives, internships and a culminating capstone seminar.

Entry requirements

Admission to the University and declaration of the Political Science and Government major normally requires successful secondary-school completion or equivalent. Applicants are expected to present a strong academic record in a college-preparatory curriculum.

• Recommended academic background: Coursework in social studies, history, English composition and mathematics, and demonstrated ability in critical reading and writing.
• Transfer applicants: College-level coursework in general education and social sciences is considered; applicants should consult transfer admissions for minimum transferable credit guidance.
• International students: Secondary-school completion equivalent to U.S. high school graduation and demonstrated English language proficiency through recognised tests or approved alternatives.
• Additional materials: Personal statements, résumé of extracurricular or civic engagement, and letters of recommendation may strengthen an application. Some students enter via broader university admission and declare the major after initial coursework.

Career prospects

Graduates with a degree in Political Science and Government pursue a wide range of careers in the public, private and non-profit sectors. The programme emphasises analytical, communication and research skills valued by employers and graduate programmes.

• Public sector: Roles in local, state and federal government, public administration, policy analysis and legislative support.
• Law and advocacy: Common pathway to law school and careers in legal practice, public interest law, and advocacy organisations.
• Non-profit and international work: Policy advocacy, programme management, community organising, and roles with NGOs and international agencies.
• Private sector and media: Positions in public affairs, government relations, political consulting, journalism, and market research.
• Further study: Graduates often move on to graduate study in public policy, international relations, political science, law, or related professional degrees.

Why study at University of Wisconsin–Parkside

University of Wisconsin–Parkside offers a student-centred environment with small class sizes and direct access to faculty who teach and conduct research in politics and public affairs. The campus’s location between Milwaukee and Chicago provides strong internship and experiential learning opportunities with government offices, advocacy organisations, media outlets and regional research centres.

• Applied learning: The department prioritises internships, practicum courses and community-engaged research that connect classroom learning to real-world political work.
• Pre-law and career support: Advising resources help students prepare for law school, public service careers and graduate study.
• Active student life: Political and civic engagement opportunities through student organisations, speaker events, and campus-hosted forums connecting students with local leaders.
• Regional connections: Proximity to municipal and state institutions in Wisconsin and to Chicago-area policy organisations enhances networking and placement prospects.