Program Overview

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American Politics and Government

Program Overview

The American Politics and Government Certificate (APGC) is available to all students seeking knowledge, skills, and abilities relating to American politics, government, and administration. Acquisition of this certificate confirms completion of foundational courses in American government institutions, political theory, and public policy. This certificate supports the College’s mission of promoting academic excellence, professional advancement, and initiatives relating to justice (i.e., equity and inclusion). Completion of the certificate prepares students for (a) post-secondary academic achievement, (b) technical / vocational success, and (c) public sector careers in local, state, and national government.

Transfer

All certificate courses transfer one-to-one to University of Wisconsin schools and other post-secondary institutions. Direct transferability varies according to major and college of choice. Check with your advisor and transfer school for verification of qualified courses. There are currently no Transfer Partnerships for this program.

Program Details

Students earning the American Politics and Government Certificate can attend full or part time.

University Transfer classes may be offered at these Madison College campuses:

• Madison - Truax
• Madison - Goodman South Campus

Curriculum and Experience

Prospective program students, the information below reflects the basic requirements for students admitted for the ** academic year.

Current and newly admitted program students, go directly to your Degree Progress Report to view:

• Progress toward your specific requirements
• Alternative (in lieu of) courses to meet specific requirements

If you have questions after reviewing your degree progress report (advisement report), please see Advising Services.

Complete the following:

• Introduction to American Government (3 credits)
• State and Local Government (3 credits)

Choose one of the following:

• Political Theory (3 credits)
• Public Policy (3 credits)
• Law and Society (3 credits)
• International Relations (3 credits)
• Gender and Politics (3 credits)

Admission

Earning a certificate is a great way to expand your skill set and add professionalism to your resume. Applications are always open.

To Apply

There are no admission requirements for this certificate. Simply submit your application by the deadline for each term.

Application Dates

• Fall 2025: Application open, deadline October 15, 2025
• Spring 2026: Application available on September 15, 2025, deadline March 15, 2026

Additional Notes

• Certificate programs are not eligible for financial aid
• Class capacity is limited and is available on a first come, first served basis
• Students who have already completed the certificate coursework at the time of application will receive the certificate diploma at the end of the term of application

Career Outcomes

Transfer Pathways

This certificate serves as a gateway to the University Transfer – Social Sciences Pre-major. Students should consult their Academic Advisor or Social Science pre-major Advisor for more information.

Critical Job Skills

Students completing this certificate gain knowledge of the public-sector knowledge, develop written communication skills, and improvement problem-solving abilities that employees seek and are critical to success in the modern American workplace. This certificate enhances a student’s probability of career success in the public sector or private sector.

Academic and Professional Development

This certificate contributes to student success in all of the University Transfer Pre-Majors and Interdisciplinary Global Studies. Pre-Majors of specific relevance include Social Science, Education, Arts and Humanities, Economics and Business, and Science, Math, and Technology. Students should consult their Academic Advisor or Program Coordinator for more information.

Earn Credits toward an Associate Degree

All American Politics and Government Certificate courses may be used as electives for a University Transfer Arts associate degree. Students should consult their Academic Advisor or Program Coordinator for more information.

Address six of the eight Madison College Core Abilities

Core abilities identified by Madison College are critical skills graduates gain during progression of their studies and use as lifelong learners at home, work, or in the community. American Politics and Government Certificate curriculum contributes to the following core abilities: communication, critical thinking, ethics, global and cultural perspectives, self-management, and social interaction.

Related Programs

• University Transfer - Social Sciences
• Legal Studies/​Paralegal
• Criminal Justice Studies