Minors and Certificate Programs
The Department of Political Science offers minors in World Politics, Law and Justice, and Practical Policy and Politics, as well as a Certificate in Public Administration and Policy.
Each minor has distinct requirements. A grade of C or better is required in all courses counting toward a minor.
Important policies:
- Students may complete no more than two POLI minors
- Only three courses may count toward both a major and a minor
- Only three courses may count toward two minors
World Politics Minor
The World Politics minor explores international relations and the interaction between global and domestic political systems. Students develop the analytical tools to examine issues such as foreign policy, international security, diplomacy, global inequality, and international law.
This minor is ideal for students interested in careers in diplomacy, international organizations, intelligence, global development, and multinational business.
Requirements:
- 18 total credits
- Required courses: POLI 260 and POLI 280
- At least four upper-level courses, including one 400-level course
- Completion of a foreign language through the 202 level
Students are encouraged to pursue advanced language study and participate in experiential opportunities such as Model United Nations, internships, and research.
Electives:
Upper-level POLI courses in the 360s/460s, 370s/470s, 380s/480s, and 390s/490s, along with selected courses such as:
- POLI 310 (Political Theories of Democracy)
- POLI 337 (Comparative Justice)
- POLI 430 (The Law of War)
- POLI 431 (Modern National Security Law)
- POLI 437 (International Human Rights Law)
- Additional approved topics courses
Law and Justice Minor
The Law and Justice minor focuses on legal systems and the role of courts, lawyers, and legal institutions in society. Students explore both the practical and theoretical dimensions of law across American, comparative, and international contexts.
This minor is excellent preparation for law school or careers in fields where legal knowledge is essential.
Requirements:
- 18 total credits
- Required course: POLI 230
- At least one 400-level course
Course topics may include:
- Constitutional law and civil rights
- Judicial process and legal reasoning
- Gender and the law
- Administrative and health law
- International and human rights law
Students may also gain hands-on experience through internships, mock trial, moot court, and legal advocacy opportunities.
Practical Policy and Politics Minor
This minor emphasizes the theory and practice of American democracy, preparing students for careers in public policy, politics, and public administration.
Students develop both substantive knowledge and professional skills through coursework and experiential learning.
Requirements:
- 18 total credits
- No more than one lower-level course
- At least one 400-level course
- Completion of an experiential learning component
Eligible courses:
Includes POLI courses in the 20s, 40s, and 50s, along with selected courses such as POLI 100, 205, 230, 304, 310, 315, 334, and 412. Selected Topics (POLI 209/309/409) may count with advisor approval.
Experiential learning options include:
- Internships (e.g., POLI 448)
- Community-based research (POLI 304)
- Legislative Simulation (POLI 341)
- Model United Nations (POLI 384L)
- Moot Court or Mock Trial (POLI 409)
- Other approved internship or service-learning experiences
Political Science Minor (Non-Majors Only)
The Political Science minor provides a broad introduction to the field for students majoring in other disciplines.
Requirements:
- POLI 100
- Five additional POLI electives
- At least one 400-level course
Additional Information
Students should consult the Undergraduate Catalog and minor advisors for detailed requirements and planning worksheets.