Practical Policy and Politics Minor

The Practical Policy and Politics Minor immerses students in study of the theory and practice of American democracy. It aims to enhance students’ capacities as citizens and to prepare them for potential careers in politics, public policy, or public administration and management. Through coursework and opportunities to earn academic credit for an internship, the minor equips students with knowledge about the principles, institutions, processes, and policies of American government and offers chances to develop various professional skills. Students may focus their courses on one particular career field, or may sample from the minor’s wide variety of courses on political communications, behavior, strategy and thought; legislative, executive, judicial and electoral politics; and public policy and administration.

Minor Requirements

Minimum 18 credits
Minimum grade of ‘C’ in courses applied to the major
Students pursuing the Political Science, B.A. may share a maximum of 3 courses between the major and the minor
Students may complete a maximum of two minors from Political Science and may share a maximum of 3 courses between minors

Course Requirements

Lower-Level Course (3 credits)

Complete a maximum of one lower-level course:

Elective Courses (12 credits)

Complete a minimum of 4 courses in American Politics or Public Administration/Policy, including at least one course at the 400 level, from the following or other approved courses.

Experiential Learning (3 credits)

Experiential learning courses are defined as ones that solely or primarily involve students in off-campus internships or service learning, off campus role-playing simulation conferences (e.g., Maryland Student Legislature, MUN), or in performing research/projects for clients. Complete a minimum of 3 credits from the following or other approved courses: