Michael Knock, Ph.D.
Associate Professor of History
It is the teacher’s job to share his or her passion for the subject and to show the student why the material is worth their time.
Political Science
Minor
Whether you’re looking for a career in politics, law, teaching, grassroots organization, or political consulting, a political science degree minor program will provide you with a deep understanding of why things happen in the world of politics – and helps you find your place in it. This minor is designed for students who desire to enhance their ability to deal intelligently and critically with issues and ideas about government and politics. Our program focuses on cultivating the strong research, writing, and oral presentation skills necessary to achieve in this ever-changing field, wherever you choose to take your career. Political Science minors often pair with majors and minors such as History, Justice and Peace Studies, and Philosophy. Students who have graduated with a minor in Political Science have gone on to become high school teachers, digital marketing associates, graduate students, and successful entrepreneurs. If you are interested in getting a political science degree, check out our campus visits and virtual visits in Dubuque, Iowa, so you can see for yourself that Clarke is one of the best Political Science degree programs in the Midwest.
The Power of Liberal Arts
You might ask yourself, what is a Political Science degree? When searching for Political Science colleges, or colleges that offer Political Science as an important minor, you should seek a school with strong liberal arts and history programs, as they will be the backbone of your learning. The ability to write well, speak well, and problem solve are some of the top skills employers seek when hiring new graduates. Leaders need to know how to create, collaborate, innovate, and inspire. A liberal arts education and emphasis in Political Science prepares you to do just that, forming those critical skills that separate leaders from followers. And, because a liberal arts education translates to many different careers, you also have the option of easily jumping into a new job if you’re ready to try something different.
How about a Career related to Political Science?
Students who study for a political science degree minor can find themselves in many careers, such as:
- Policy Analyst
- Legislative Assistant
- Public Relations Specialist
- Social Media Manager
- Market Research Analyst
- Political Consultant
- Attorney
- Intelligence Analyst
- Political Campaign Staff
- College-Student Leadership and Activities Director
Program Details
In the Poli Sci degree minor, you will learn writing, critical thinking, and research skills, all of which are highly sought after in today’s trending markets. For a political science minor, you will complete 18 credit hours of approved political science courses. Courses include American National Government, Western Political Thought, World Issues, and United States Foreign Policy. Students may also earn academic credit for supervised, professionally related work experience with public or private employers such as museums, political campaigns, and government agencies.
Unique Courses in the Political Science Program
Here is a sampling of the types of unique and diverse classes you will take in the Political Science degree program:
MODERN WORLD POLITICS — You will study how political trends around the world within a historical perspective.
AMERICAN NATIONAL GOVERNMENT — This course is an investigation of the system of government and politics in the United States.
MODERN ASIAN HISTORY — Take a deeper look at the political, economic, and social development of Asia as a world force.
Admission to Clarke University
Minors help students acquire knowledge that supports their major and adds breadth to their education. Students generally obtain a minor by completing 21 semester hours in that field. Course descriptions can be found under the appropriate departmental heading. Consult with your advisor to apply for a minor field of study.
Applicants are considered on an individual basis. Apply to Clarke today to begin your journey.
1:1
One-on-one instruction from Ph.D.-level faculty.
97
%
Graduate outcomes
Percent of students reporting being employed in their field or enrolled in graduate school upon graduation.
Other Programs to Explore
Experience Clarke Political Science for Yourself