Concentrations in Political Science
The UNM Department of Political Science is excited to announce the addition of two new undergraduate concentrations, starting in Fall 2026.
Pre-Law Concentration:
The Pre-Law Concentration in the Department of Political Science is designed to provide students with a comprehensive foundation in legal studies, preparing them for success in law school, legislative careers, policy analysis, political advocacy, and other law-related fields. This concentration fosters a deep understanding of the multifaceted nature of law, from its theoretical foundations to its practical applications, as well as its impact on society.
Students in this concentration will explore the structure and function of the legal system, including constitutional law, civil rights, and legal reasoning, while also engaging with the broader legislative processes that shape public policy. The curriculum delves into the social, economic, and political forces that influence the law, providing students with a political and sociological lens to examine the determinants and consequences of legal institutions in different contexts.
Through a combination of coursework in political theory, legislative behavior, and the role of law in society and government, students will develop critical thinking, analytical, and communication skills. This interdisciplinary approach enables students to understand the law not only as a set of rules but as a dynamic system influenced by and responsive to social, cultural, and political factors.
Required Courses:
- POLS1120 - American National Government (3)
- POLS303 - Law in the Political Community (3)
- POLS315 - Constitutional Law: Powers (3)
- POLS316 - Constitutional Law: Liberties (3)
- POLS317 - Constitutional Law: Rights (3)
- POLS311 - The Legislative Process (3)
- POLS362 - Modern Political Theory (3)
- POLS376 - Health Policy and Politics (3)
- POLS373 - Politics, Policy and Management in Local Government (3)
- POLS304 - Latinos, Native Americans and the Voting Rights Act (3)
Public Policy Concentration:
The Public Policy Concentration equips students with tools to critically analyze and influence the crucial public decisions that affect communities and society. Students gain an interdisciplinary understanding of the factors that shape the development of policies and their implementation at all levels of government, including the role of elected officials, laws, citizen activism, voting behavior, and community engagement.
The concentration emphasizes both theoretical understanding and hands-on learning, preparing students to tackle real-world challenges. Graduates will be well-equipped for careers in public policy, working with local governments, state legislatures, federal agencies, or non-profit organizations dedicated to public service and advocacy.
Required Courses:
- POLS1120 - American National Government (3)
Additional Required Courses (choose 3):
- POLS300 - Political Topics (3)
- POLS302 - Comparative State Politics (3)
- POLS310 - Political Communication (3)
- POLS311 - The Legislative Process (3)
- POLS312 - The American Presidency (3)
- POLS324 - The Politics of Poverty and Inequality (3)
- POLS342 - American Foreign Policy (3)
- POLS372 - Urban Politics (3)
- POLS373 - Politics, Policy and Management in Local Government (3)
- POLS376 - Health Policy and Politics (3)
- POLS377 - Population Policy and Politics (3)
- POLS400 - Advanced Political Topics (3)
- POLS410 - US Campaigns and Elections (3)
- POLS491 - Internship (1 - 6)
- POLS492 - City Politics and Policy in Practice (0 - 3)
- POLS493 - State Politics and Policy in Practice (1 - 3)
- POLS494 - Federal Politics and Policy in Practice (1 - 9)
Note: POLS 300 and POLS 400 must be policy-related by approval of the Political Science Undergraduate Director or Department Chair. If students take POLS 491: Internship and/or POLS 494: Federal Politics & Policy in Practice, only the first 3 credit hours taken will accumulate toward the concentration (you will receive full credit, equal to the number of credit hours for which you are registered toward your major or minor).
FAQS:
What is a concentration? A concentration is a specific subfield of study, within a broader major (e.g. Pre-Law or Public Policy, within Political Science).
Is this concentration reflected on my diploma at graduation? Yes!
How do I earn the concentration? Throughout the course of your major or minor in political science, you will take a specific combination of courses. Credit hours taken can be applied to your major or minor, and concentration simultaneously. You can start the process of declaring a concentration by speaking to our Advisor Luke Wilson, polisciadvise@unm.edu.
Wait! I've taken enough credits to qualify already! Great! Follow the directions above and meet with UG advisor Luke Wilson who will verify you've completed the concentration and ensure it is applied to your academic record.
