Political Science Minor
Get a working understanding of how governments, policy, and global politics actually function — in a 15-credit minor that fits any major and travels into law, advocacy, journalism, and public service.
Program Overview
The political science minor at Shawnee State University introduces students to the theories, institutions, and processes that shape governments, societies, and international relations. Whether your interests lie in public policy, law, international affairs, or political theory, this program builds a strong foundation in how political systems work—and why they matter.
Students in the 15-credit-hour minor in political science explore both domestic and global politics, gaining the critical thinking, research, and communication skills valued in fields such as journalism, public service, advocacy, consulting, nonprofit leadership, and graduate or law school.
At Shawnee State, our small class sizes and expert faculty help students engage meaningfully with real-world political issues—making this an ideal minor for any student seeking to make informed, impactful contributions in their chosen profession.
At A Glance
Political Science Minor
Degree
Minor
Format
On campus
Length
Typically completed alongside a bachelor's degree
Credits
15 credit hours
Why Study Political Science Minor at Shawnee University
You take two foundation courses, then choose three upper-division electives — so you can lean toward U.S. politics, international relations, political theory, or constitutional law depending on where you're headed. Coverage runs across domestic and global politics.
You leave with a real understanding of how government works at every level, not just one specialty.
The skills — research, analysis, communication, structured argument — transfer directly to law, journalism, public service, advocacy, consulting, nonprofit leadership, and graduate or professional school.
Small classes and faculty who specialize in these areas mean you get genuine discussion and feedback on your work, not just lectures.
The minor is 15 credit hours. A minimum grade of C is required in all courses, and no more than 9 credit hours may also count toward your major.
- Foundational Core (6 credit hours): Choose two of POLS 1110 — National Government; POLS 1210 — Introduction to Comparative Politics; POLS 1310 — Introduction to Political Theory; POLS 1410 — Introduction to International Relations; or ECON 2202 — Principles of Macroeconomics
- Upper Division (9 credit hours): Choose three electives, including Modern Political Theory; Research Methods in Political Science; Mass Media Politics; U.S. Congress; Women and Politics; International Political Economy; Constitutional Law; Politics of Appalachia; and more
By the end of the certificate, you'll be able to:
- Explain major criminological theories and how they're applied
- Describe how policing and corrections operate in practice
- Apply criminal justice concepts to real situations
- Communicate effectively within a criminal justice framework
Courses meet on Shawnee State's Portsmouth campus, primarily in Massie Hall.
Political Science Minor Frequently Asked Questions
Use it to strengthen a major you're already pursuing. Common pairings lead to law school, journalism, public administration, nonprofit work, government roles, consulting, and graduate study in policy or international affairs.
Yes — Political Science is among the most common pre-law backgrounds. The constitutional law, theory, and research-heavy electives map well to law school coursework and the LSAT.
Up to 9 credit hours of overlap with your major's coursework. Your advisor can help you plan the sequence.
Courses are on campus; some sections may be available online or hybrid. Confirm with your advisor.
