Political Science

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  • Overview
  • Freshmen
  • Transfer
  • Related Programs

Overview

Understanding how to analyze government, politics, and public policy is central to so many societal questions. The Political Science minor enhances your major, demonstrating key research, communication, and critical thinking skills to employers or graduate schools. Minor students can be involved in a wide range of Political Science activities both in and out of the classroom—this is a great minor for political “junkies” who just want to learn more about how the political world works!

Examples of classes include: Civil Liberties, Women & Politics, the American Presidency, Classic Political Theory, Civic & Nonprofit Leadership, International Terrorism, Politics of the Developing World, Criminal Law, State & Local Government, Political Behavior, and Environmental Politics & Policy.

Why minor in Political Science at EIU? 

  • We have small classes taught entirely by department faculty, where you make connections with fellow students and faculty. Our faculty care about you--we learn your names, we mentor you, and we support you in the learning process.
  • Our minor is only 18 hours, and very flexible, allowing you to select courses that meet your needs and interests.
  • You can engage in practical politics through programs like Model Illinois Government and Moot Court.
  • We offer an accelerated graduate program for qualified students, where you can earn a B.A. and M.A. in 5 years and 1 summer.

Our minor works well with a wide range of majors, especially Foreign Languages, Philosophy, History, English, Economics, Sociology, Criminal Justice, Psychology, Communications Studies, Journalism, Business, Health Administration, and Family and Consumer Sciences.

Completion time: 18 hours

Resources

- Program Information in EIU Catalog

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Freshmen

First-year minors can get involved in Political Science coursework and activities right away! Many of our students enroll in introductory courses, such as American Government, International Relations, Public Policy, and Political Theory. Our non-partisan Political Science Association hosts speakers and events throughout the year, and welcomes first-year students. You can also enroll in the Model Illinois Government and Moot Court simulations in your first year. Annual department events, like the fall picnic and spring awards ceremony, are great ways to connect with classmates and faculty. 

Transfer

Transfer students can take advantage of so many opportunities to develop and grow at EIU! Be sure to consider our government simulations, Model Illinois Government or Moot Court--both are great skill-builders, and a great way to meet classmates. Transfer students can also get involved with the non-partisan Political Science Association, which hosts speakers and events throughout the year. Annual department events, like the fall picnic and spring awards ceremony are great ways to connect with classmates and faculty.

Name Type
Political Science Major
International Studies in Political Science Option (Undergrad)
Civic and Nonprofit Leadership Option (Undergrad)
Political Science Minor
Civic and Nonprofit Leadership Minor

First-year minors can get involved in Political Science coursework and activities right away! Many of our students enroll in introductory courses, such as American Government, International Relations, Public Policy, and Political Theory. Our non-partisan Political Science Association hosts speakers and events throughout the year, and welcomes first-year students. You can also enroll in the Model Illinois Government and Moot Court simulations in your first year. Annual department events, like the fall picnic and spring awards ceremony, are great ways to connect with classmates and faculty. 

Dr. Melinda Mueller

Coleman Hall 2341
Email: mamueller@eiu.edu
URL: https://www.eiu.edu/polisci/