Undergraduate Political Science

We emphasize learning that moves beyond the classroom. Our majors are among the most active in the college and in the Madison community. The political science major ensures that students find a course of study that offers intellectual stimulation and prepares them for a rewarding post-graduate career.  

Students will do more than read about politics – they will learn to write and communicate as a sophisticated and professional person. Classes are small and the learning environment is rigorous. Students are transformed from learners into engaged citizens who can think critically and comparatively about contemporary debates and problems in the United States and throughout the world.  

Being in Madison, the state capital, our students have an abundant and diverse array of internship opportunities to round out their studies and further their career preparation. Students work for state and federal legislative offices, in county, state, and federal agencies, in political campaigns, and with non-profits. They also have the opportunity to compete in an international Model United Nations competition.

As a field of study, political science remains one of the most popular majors in the United States, and prepares students for exciting careers in areas such as federal, state, and local government, political campaigns, non-governmental organizations, public relations, federal law enforcement and intelligence, economic development, community organization, and public policy development. In addition, the major is a common pathway to law school and graduate study.