Political Science . . .
is a traditional
Liberal Arts program.
It provides students
with the intellectual
skills and substantive
knowledge that are
necessary to be able
to analyze and interpret
political events
and governmental
processes.
Department of Political Science
307 Kleinpell Fine Arts Building
(715) 425-3318/3798
Undergraduate Catalog
Goals and Objectives
The goal of the political science major is to offer students an undergraduate program of study
that provides them with the intellectual skills necessary to be able to analyze and interpret political
events and governmental processes.
Substantively, the program emphasizes the acquisition of knowledge about the American political
system and other political systems found throughout the world. It also seeks to instill an
understanding of international relations, an appreciation of the history and values of the western
tradition in political philosophy and knowledge of the fundamental concepts involved in
the study of political behavior.
The major prepares students for post-graduate endeavors including the pursuit of professional
and graduate school opportunities as well as public and private sector employment.
Program
The political science department offers a bachelor of science or bachelor of arts degree in political
science. Most students graduate with a bachelor of science degree. The program requires
that students are exposed to each of the major subfields within political science. At the same
time it offers students the opportunity and flexibility to pursue their individual intellectual
interests within the major.
Faculty
The political science department consists of four full-time faculty members and occasional part-time
instructors. Each of the full-time faculty holds a Ph.D. degree in Political Science. Their collective
expertise covers the standard range of subfields within the discipline
Career and Internship Opportunities
The study of political science prepares students for a range of careers in both the public and private
sectors as well as for post-graduate study. A sample of these include: law; business; journalism;
public and international affairs; federal, state and local government; teaching; private,
non-profit organizations; interest groups; and campaign management.
In order to assist in the pursuit of specific careers, students in political science are encouraged
to gain practical experience through internships. There are a wide range of internship opportunities
available. In recent years, students have had internships with members of Congress, with
state legislators, on campaign staffs, in legal offices, in non-profit organizations and with interest
groups.
