American Politics

Undergraduate Minor

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Make an impact with a minor in politics

Ready to make your mark on American government and law? You’re in the right place! UW’s American politics minor helps students gain new perspectives on American political systems, contemporary political issues and public law.

As the sole 4-year higher education institution in Wyoming, our political science program has incredible access to local, state and national governments. This access gives our students invaluable hands-on learning experiences and internship opportunities.

Additionally, this minor serves as excellent preparation for law school or careers in public service and policy.

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This program is currently offered in
the following locations:

Laramie Campus

About the American Politics Minor

The minor in politics is an 18-credit-hour program in which students take two required courses and choose the remainder of their courses from a list of approved electives. During these elective courses, students have the opportunity to learn about our voting system, judicial process, foreign relations, U.S. Congress and more.

Students may also gain credit for the minor through international study abroad programs and internship experiences.

Exterior of Wyoming's capitol building

 

 

All minor students must take two required courses, including:

  • American and Wyoming Government
  • Seminar in Public Law or Seminar in American Politics and Institutions


Students additionally choose 12 credit hours from a list of approved courses, including 9 credit hours at the 3000-level or above.

At least 12 credit hours from the minor cannot be counted toward other degree requirements. Students must receive a grade of C or better in all courses.

Student smiles at the camera while writing

 

American Politics Minor Highlights

Notable Faculty

The political science program is led by a group of dedicated, accomplished faculty.

  • Dr. Andrew Garner, Professor of American and Comparative Politics
  • Dr. Jason McConnell, Assistant Professor of Public Law and Political Communication
  • Dr. Ryan Williamson, Assistant Professor of American Politics, Electoral Politics and Legislative Procedure
Meet Our Faculty

UW has many thriving clubs and organizations that help students connect with peers and network with professionals. Here are a few student organizations you may be interested in:

 

Political science students study the structures and processes of American governments through unique and engaging courses.

  • Parties, Interest Groups and Elections — This course discusses the origins and evolution of American political parties, causes of interest group development, political socialization, political participation and voting behavior. 
  • Political Communication — In this course, students examine the intersection of politics and communication. We cover politics and media, interpersonal political discussion, organizational and governmental political communication and political campaigns.
  • Constitutional Law: Civil Liberties and Rights — This course utilizes case-study analysis of judicial decisions to discuss the constitutional interpretation of the 1st Amendment, privacy rights, the rights of the criminally accused and civil rights (including racial and gender equality).
  • US Congress — In this course, students analyze aspects of the U.S. Congress, including election of congressmen, congressional-presidential relations and the influence of political parties on the legislative process.

 

Our students thrive in international environments where they’re exposed to the cultures and political systems of different countries. In addition to gaining invaluable personal and educational experience abroad, students may count study abroad programs and international internships toward the completion of their minor with permission from the political science director.
STUDY ABROAD PROGRAMS

Students may intern with the Wyoming state legislative system, local non-profits or as part of our prestigious Washington semester program where students intern with Wyoming senators in Washington D.C.. These programs may additionally be counted toward the minor.

INTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITIES 

Notable Faculty

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What can you do with a political science minor?

A political science minor is a versatile addition to many majors, helping you build strong analytical, communication and critical thinking skills. It can prepare you for careers in law, government, public policy, advocacy, journalism, international relations or business, giving you a deeper understanding of political systems and current events that’s valuable across a wide range of industries.

  • Legislative assistant
  • Policy analyst
  • Paralegal or legal assistant
  • Campaign staffer
  • Public affairs specialist
  • Nonprofit program coordinator
  • Diplomatic or foreign service support
  • Journalist or political correspondent
  • Research assistant in political or social sciences
  • And more!

  • Law and Legal Services
  • Government and Public Policy
  • Advocacy and Nonprofit Work
  • International Relations
  • Journalism and Media
  • Business and Public Affairs
  • And more!

UW graduates pursue fulfilling careers in national, state, and local governments, as well as in law and non-profit organizations. Here are several places you’ll find our grads making an impact:

  • Wyoming state government
  • Local governments 
  • National and international non-profit organizations
  • Prestigious think tanks
  • Law firms

Yes, a political science minor is great preparation for law school. Many of our graduates ultimately attend law school.

 

This minor helps you develop key skills in critical thinking, research, writing and argumentation—all essential for success in legal studies. The coursework also provides a strong foundation in understanding government, legal systems and public policy, which aligns closely with what you'll study in law school.

Why Students Love Studying Politics at UW

Thinking about adding a political science minor? Hear from students at the University of Wyoming’s School of Politics, Public Affairs and International Studies (SPPAIS) as they share what makes UW so special. With students from around the world, SPPAIS offers a diverse and dynamic learning environment filled with engaging classes, global perspectives and exciting opportunities to grow.

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Related Programs

Interested in a political science minor? These programs may also be of interest to you: