Eureka College

What you'll study

This blended major draws on courses from both the History and Political Science departments to build skills in historical interpretation, political analysis and research design. You will complete core modules that introduce primary-source analysis, historical writing, and the fundamentals of political science, then choose advanced electives to shape your specialism.

• Core history topics: U.S. history surveys, world history surveys, historiography, archival methods, and thematic seminars (such as social, cultural, or economic history).
• Core political science topics: American government and politics, comparative politics, international relations, political theory, public policy and research methods/statistics for political inquiry.
• Electives and seminars: Constitutional law, campaign politics, civil rights, diplomacy and foreign policy, political economy, regional studies, and capstone seminars on contemporary political issues.
• Capstone and experiential learning: A senior capstone or thesis project is normally required, alongside opportunities for internships with local government, NGOs, media outlets or legal offices. Study abroad and off-campus research projects are available to deepen international or regional expertise.
• General education: As a liberal-arts programme, students also complete general-education courses in writing, quantitative reasoning, natural sciences and the arts to support breadth of learning.

Entry requirements

Applicants are usually expected to hold a secondary-school diploma or equivalent with a record of academic achievement. Typical evidence includes official transcripts, a personal statement demonstrating interest in history and politics, and at least one letter of recommendation from a teacher or guidance counsellor. Standardised test scores are considered where submitted but many institutions now operate test-optional policies—check the college’s admissions page for current practice.

For international applicants, proof of English language proficiency (for example IELTS or TOEFL) may be required unless exempt. Mature applicants with relevant experience are welcome and may apply with non-traditional qualifications; admissions advisers can provide guidance on portfolio or interview options.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with transferable skills in critical thinking, research, writing, public speaking and quantitative analysis that are valued across the public, private and non-profit sectors. Common career paths include:

• Public service and civil service roles at local, state or national levels
• Legal professions (often following further study), paralegal work and policy advising
• Campaign management, political consultancy and public affairs
• Journalism, communications and media roles focused on politics and public policy
• Non-governmental organisations, think tanks and international organisations
• Secondary-school teaching in history or social studies (with appropriate certification) and graduate research in history, political science or public policy

Why study at Eureka College

Eureka College’s small liberal-arts environment offers close faculty mentorship, small seminar-style classes and accessible research supervision that support hands-on learning. The college emphasises civic engagement and leadership, with internships and local partnerships that let students apply classroom learning in public-service settings.

Students benefit from a campus culture that values discussion, debate and ethical leadership; the programme encourages interdisciplinary thinking so graduates are prepared both for immediate employment and for postgraduate study. Advising and career services help students plan internships, experiential placements and competitive applications for graduate or professional schools.