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Political Entrepreneurship & Leadership Minor

Become a Leader in Politics

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This minor prepares students for the practical experience of participating in U.S. government and working with U.S. governmental institutions. Students are required to complete an internship that will give them knowledge and skills relevant to a career in politics and public policy.

Graduates will be prepared to engage in grassroots organizing on behalf of electoral campaigns, political parties and interest groups. Students interested in a career in campaigning and community organizing are encouraged to gain actual experience in this field via an internship for course credit.
Keeping in mind Tip O'Neill’s famous political saying, "all politics are local," this minor makes sense for students interested in working in local, county, and state government.

Learn To

Apply practical knowledge of governmental and political processes

Provide guidance on leadership in public life

Facilitate civic engagement

Effectively conduct community outreach

Assist in the campaign process

“ This minor is designed to give students real-world skills for becoming movers and shakers in politics. ”
Dr. Nadine Gibson Associate Professor of Political Science
Program Overview

Become an Active Participant and Leader in Politics

The Political Entrepreneurship and Leadership Minor provides students with the practical knowledge of how to become an active participant and leader in politics and government. Students will be prepared for careers in campaigns, public policy, local government, community organizing and legislative institutions.

Courses will help students develop the skills and tools necessary for success in the public sector, with a focus on applied work and technical knowledge. Elective offerings in the minor include courses on campaigns, elections, political institutions, public policy and public opinion, allowing students to focus on specific avenues of political engagement. Students must complete an internship in addition to coursework for this minor.

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Sample Courses

  • PLS 101: American National Government
  • PLS 205: Campaign and Elections
  • PLS 217: Ethics and Leadership in Public Life
  • PLS 304: Introduction to Public Policy Analysis
  • PLS 498: Internship in Political Science
See The Full Curriculum

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