Prepare for Your Career in Politics
The field of political science can open many doors and provide numerous opportunities for both the growth of your career and your professional network. As a top-ranked university in political science degrees and curriculum, Fort Hays State University’s certificate programs will only further refine your skillset and continue your excellence.
FHSU Online Students: Please consult your advisor on courses needed to obtain this certificate; some courses may only be available on campus.
Pre-Law Certificate (15 hours)
Required Courses
POLS 320: Introduction to the Law
POLS 425: Legal Research Methods
Plus 3 of the following:
POLS 422: Legal Advocacy
POLS 620: Constitutional Law
POLS 621: American Civil Liberties
CRJ 331: Criminal Law and Procedure
GBUS 204: Business Law 1
Approved Seminar
Public Administration Certificate
A certificate in Public Administration demonstrates your interest in governmental or nonprofit work. Armed with your passion for public service and the knowledge and skills you'll gain in this certificate program, you'll find yourself ready to help organizations run more efficiently so that they can best provide for society's needs.
Required Courses (15 hours)
POLS 310: Introduction to Public Administration
POLS 611: Policy Analysis
POLS 612: The Administrative Process
POLS 616: Public Personnel Management
POLS 618:Public Budgeting
Paralegal Certificate
Paralegals, or Legal Assistants, play an increasingly important role in the legal system. They work in all areas of practice including private law firms, government offices, corporations, insurance companies and banks. They assist attorneys in a wide array of tasks such as fact gathering, document preparation, file organization and client contact.
The Paralegal Certificate at Fort Hays State can be completed as a stand-alone certificate or in combination with any degree program on campus. Many students choose to combine this certificate with a Pre-law/Legal Studies Certificate, overlapping two of the requirements (POLS 320 and POLS 425).
Required Courses (15 hours)
POLS 320: Introduction to the Law
POLS 425: Legal Research Methods
BCOM 301: Business Communications
GBUS 204: Business Law I
IDS 401: Ethical Issues in the Professions and Business
Political Management Certificate
The field of Political Management incorporates professionals from across a broad spectrum of skills, knowledge and talent, and brings them together to participate in the political process.
Whatever your area of study or interest-graphic design, advertising, business, political strategy, research, lobbying, blogging, or writing about politics, the Political Management Certificate can help you prepare for a career in the thrilling world of politics.
REQUIRED COURSES (15 hours)
POLS 401: The Congress
POLS 660: Political Campaign Management
POLS 661: American Political Parties
POLS 664: Political Behavior
POLS 665: Interest Groups and Lobbying