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Study the domestic and global dynamics of politics, governance, and public affairs

Immerse yourself in the epicenter of political activity as you study just steps away from the Capitol. Our Bachelor of Science in Political Science degree program will take you on a transformative journey that delves into the heart of politics. With the State Capitol, county and city government, and a substantial federal presence, Madison offers the perfect backdrop for a dynamic educational experience. Location really matters when it means you will have unparalleled opportunities to witness democracy in action, engage with policymakers, and experience firsthand the intricacies of government at all levels.

As a political science major, you will be challenged to become proactive and involved citizens, as well as influential leaders in both your community and the political arena. The curriculum will explore fundamental principles of political theory, analyze real-world political systems, and prompt thought-provoking discussions about pressing global and national issues. Within the context of a rigorous learning environment, small classes will foster experiential learning that extends beyond the confines of the classroom. At Edgewood College, students cultivate advanced writing and communication skills, which seamlessly transition into real-world applications, equipping graduates for success across a spectrum of professional careers.

Our faculty will help guide you in selecting a concentration tailored to your academic and professional goals. We aspire to align you with the course of study that fosters intellectual growth and prepares you for success in your post-graduate pursuits. Political Science alumni have gone onto serve in elected office, practice law, or work as state or federal legislative aides, public administrators, campaign managers, or with non-profit organizations.

General Political Science concentration

The general concentration offers a broad and well-rounded overview of political science that emphasizes choice and flexibility in meeting requirements for the major. 

Pre-Law concentration

The pre-law concentration is designed to introduce students to subjects relevant to the systematic study of law within the framework of American government. Students thinking about going to law school might especially consider this concentration.  

International Relations concentration

Delve into global and comparative political systems while covering topics such as diplomacy, conflict resolution, democracy promotion, national security, and socioeconomic development. Students will develop skills in analyzing and evaluating political behavior, power, conflict, ideologies, laws, policies, and institutions.

Political Economy concentration

This concentration focuses on the interrelationship between political and economic systems. Students will engage in courses drawn from both economics and political science and develop well-honed skills in the tools of political and economic analysis that lay at the heart of public administration, management, and public policy. 

Locations
Madison, WI
Formats
On-campus
Number of Credits
120
Next Start Date
January 21, 2025

Careers within Political Science

$99,410

10%

A bachelor’s degree in Political Science prepares you for a variety of career paths.

  • Campaign Manager
  • Intelligence Analyst
  • Journalist/Political Reporter
  • Lobbyist
  • Policy Analyst
  • Political Consultant
  • Public Administrator
  • Public Policy Advisor
  • Public Relations Specialist
  • Urban or Regional Planner

Political Science by the Numbers

12:1

85%

76%

Political Science Student Spotlight

Paige Banks

Paige Banks ‘24

“Edgewood College provided me with the chance to pursue my passion in politics by offering various internship and work opportunities at the Capitol! The coursework designed by faculty directed translated into my everyday work while in the Office of the Governor.”

Shane Garvey ‘24

“A nurturing atmosphere, but one that also expects a lot from you. This environment allowed me, as a student, to grow and expand my capabilities through one-on-one dialogues and coursework that truly challenged me. I feel as if I’ve come away as a more experienced and well-rounded individual.”

Student Organizations

Student Senate

Student Senate serves as the voice of the Edgewood College student community. Working collectively, students strive to advocate for student interests both within the college and the neighboring communities. With a passion for serving others, Student Senate works passionately to enhance education, student life, and the overall Edgewood experience.

Political Science Experiences

Most of the political science concentrations require students to complete an internship, offering valuable hands-on experience. Edgewood students commonly intern with members of Congress, state legislators, law firms, advocacy groups or state and municipal agencies. Some of the examples include:

  • Menn Law Firm
  • Office of Governor Tony Evers
  • Office of U.S. Representative Glenn Grothman
  • Office of U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin
  • State Senate Page
  • State Senator Lena Taylor
  • United States Department of Agriculture

Political Science Faculty Spotlights

Steven Davis

Steven Davis, PhD

davis@edgewood.edu

David Vitse

DVitse@edgewood.edu

Kevin Biller

kbiller@edgewood.edu

Amitabh Pal

apal@edgewood.edu

Enhance Your Political Science Major

As political science majors, students will be intensively trained to understand and apply the tools of social science analysis, culminating in the development of a senior capstone project of original research. These methodology skills will also serve students well in graduate school and/or future employment.

Political Science students with a concentration in International Relations can further their studies with an extensive array of short-term and semester-long study aboard opportunities available through Edgewood’s Center for Global Education.

Given that Madison is at the center of so much political activity, studying political science at Edgewood offers the student endless opportunities for volunteering and partaking in all sorts of civic engagement from working on campaigns to being an election worker.

Some of the incredible things political science alumni have gone on to do includes serving as:

  • Mayor of Stillwater, MN
  • State Representative, Wisconsin 41st Assembly District
  • Dane County Board of Supervisors–District 36
  • Legislative Affairs Director, WI Governor’s Office
  • Assistant Deputy Secretary, Wisconsin Department of Administration
  • Intelligence Analyst, Central Intelligence Agency
  • Associate Attorney – U.S. Bank Global Fund Services
  • Political Director, Virginia Democratic Party
  • Environmental Analysis & Review Specialist at Wisconsin Department of Transportation
  • Economic Development Manager, City of San Antonio
  • Regional Planner at Lamoille County (VT) Planning Commission
  • Communication Specialist, U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID)
  • Assistant State Public Defender, La Crosse
  • Chief of Staff, Wisconsin State Senate.
  • Owner and Founder of Rishi Tea