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Minor in Political Science

Katherine Jossi'20 at the Washington Monument during her semester in the U.S. capital

Develop informed perspectives on governance

What is Political Science?

Political science is the study of power, governance, institutions, and public decision-making. It examines how societies organize authority, create laws and policies, and negotiate conflict and cooperation at local, national, and global levels. Political science asks essential questions about justice, rights, representation, and responsibility, and it provides tools for understanding how political systems shape everyday life.

As a field of study, political science combines theory and practice. Students analyze political ideas, institutions, public policy, and global relations while developing skills in research, writing, and critical analysis relevant to many professions.

Why study Political Science?

Studying political science helps you make sense of the forces shaping public life. You learn how governments work, how policies are formed, and how political ideas influence social outcomes. The minor strengthens your ability to evaluate institutions, assess competing arguments, and communicate clearly about complex issues.

A political science minor pairs well with many majors and career goals. It is especially useful for students interested in public service, law, advocacy, journalism, education, nonprofit work, international affairs, and fields where understanding governance and power adds valuable context.

Why study Political Science at Beloit College?

At Beloit College, political science is taught through engaged, discussion-driven courses that connect theory to real-world issues. Students analyze current events, participate in simulations, write policy-focused assignments, and explore political questions across cultures and historical periods. Small classes and close faculty mentorship encourage thoughtful debate and careful reasoning.

The program emphasizes interdisciplinary learning and global perspectives. Students connect political science with study abroad, internships, or related fields such as critical identity studies, environmental studies, health and society, or law and justice. Students interested in deeper engagement may consider majoring in political science or pairing the minor with programs in international relations, critical identity studies, or environmental studies.

Details

Specialization

Minor

Credits Required

6 units (24 semester hours)

Format

In-person

Related Departments & Schools

Related Offerings

Political Science curriculum

Political science courses introduce students to political theory, institutions, public policy, comparative politics, and international relations. Coursework builds skills in analysis, research, and persuasive communication while encouraging students to connect political ideas to contemporary challenges.

Courses examine political ideas, institutions, policy processes, justice, and governance across domestic and global contexts.

[POLS 160] International Politics: Introduction to the workings of the international political and economic systems from both a practical and theoretical perspective. Offers a brief history of the key events which have shaped international politics, introduces the major theoretical approaches of the discipline, and explores mechanisms for conflict and cooperation.
[POLS 180] Introduction to Political Thinking: Introduction to political philosophy through consideration of the enduring question: What is justice? Investigates responses offered by ancient thinkers and those of the early modern period in order to examine the historical development of political theory in the Western tradition.
[POLS 214] Race and Ethnicity in America: This course addresses the issues of race and ethnicity in American politics through two lenses: the crafting and implementation of domestic policies (such as welfare, education, and the criminal justice system) and the framing of political decisions. After an introduction to historical, sociological, and psychological approaches to the study of race and ethnicity, we apply these approaches to studies of American public policy.
[POLS 262] Human Rights Seminar: The study of international human rights. Topics include the role of the United Nations and nongovernmental organizations; the position of women and gender-based cultural practices; refugees and asylum practices; labor practices; the death penalty and juvenile justice; health and human rights; indigenous peoples; civil and political liberties; and economic rights.
[POLS 386] Studies in Comparative Political Thought: Capstone course that examines a particular theme, applied to various thinkers and countries of the world across time and space. Students will develop their own major research paper on a particular thinker or country and will present that paper in class.

Political Science outcomes

Completing a political science minor from Beloit College equips students with analytical insight into governance and public life, along with practical skills in critical thinking, research, and communication that strengthen civic engagement and professional preparation.

Students completing the political science minor can:

Analyze political systems, institutions, and policy processes.
Evaluate political arguments using evidence and theory.
Understand how power operates across cultural and historical contexts.
Communicate clearly about political issues in writing and discussion.
Synthesize diverse perspectives to assess public problems.
Apply political knowledge to civic, professional, or academic settings.

Business & Economic Research: Gather data, analyze trends, and support research projects on markets, industries, or public issues. ($55,000 → $100,000+)
Campaign Strategy & Political Communication: Plan campaign messages, analyze voter data, and support outreach across political communication channels. ($50,000 → $100,000+)
Government & Public Administration: Support public programs, manage resources, and help agencies deliver services to communities. ($50,000 → $100,000+)
Government & Public Service: Contribute research, analysis, and cultural expertise to civic or international initiatives. ($45,000 → $90,000+)
Policy Analysis & Public Affairs: Study laws and programs, evaluate policy outcomes, and help recommend practical public solutions. ($45,000 → $120,000+)
Social Policy & Advocacy: Research community needs, analyze social issues, and support programs that promote equity and well-being. ($40,000 → $80,000+)

Reviewed on November 2025. Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary figures shown here are estimates. Actual pay will vary by position, industry, location, education, and experience. Some pathways and positions may require additional education or certifications. For more detailed information, please explore reputable career and salary resources.

Restorative justice

Samuel Shobert ’26 interned at the Columbus office of the Ohio Justice and Policy Center (OJPC), a non-profit founded by civil rights attorney Al Gerhardstein ’73.

Thomas Fleming, Class of 2027

The pursuit of justice

Thomas Fleming ’27 spent his summer conducting independent research on criminal charging decisions in Rock County, WI.

Studying working class politics

McNair Scholar Jake Fein ’27 spent the summer conducting independent research about the political attitudes of the working class.

Lily Wojtowicz

Beloit alumna tackles U.S. nuclear strategy

Lily Wojtowicz (IR ’11) is a research fellow at the Centre for International Security at the Hertie School in Berlin.

Lyndon Defoe, Jasmine Nears’09, and Alex Kalb in Madison at a voter drive sponsored by America Votes.

Pathways to Public Service

While the notion of public service may seem quaint in this time of deep partisan divisions, the careers of these four alumni prove that there are many ways to work for the collective public good, and that the liberal arts and a Beloit education have always been invaluable preparation for that work.

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