125 credits
required for program
- On Campus
- PSEO/Early College Online Classes
Learn how you can contribute to the common good in the realm of politics and government. The Politics, History, and Economics program will equip you with God-honoring leadership skills that can be utilized in your church, community, and world.
Politics, History, & Economics (PHE) may be the right degree for you if you
- want to take action and see a change in the world
- are eager to learn more about history, finance, legislation, and social issues
- desire a career in education, law, government, public administration, or international relations
Why study politics, history, and economics at Northwestern?
Located in the capital of Minnesota, UNW provides numerous opportunities for students to get hands-on experience. This includes an opportunity to complete an internship in a government office.
The PHE major is an interdisciplinary program. This allows for flexibility to choose emphases and specialties (including political communication). PHE integrates five important components to provide powerful lenses of understanding and preparation for action.
Politics – You’ll build an understanding of how dynamic political power is essential for engaging with domestic or foreign concerns.
History – You’ll gain knowledge of the historical nature of contemporary issues and global developments. Which will build a deeper knowledge around today’s international realities.
Economics – You’ll learn the basics of economics to understand the impacts of policies.
Philosophy – You’ll develop skills to think rationally and with empathy.
Communication – You’ll learn how to effectively outline and explain issues. Leading to a greater influence of ideas and policies.
Northwestern history alumni have worked for the Secret Service, gone on to law school at Harvard University, University of Minnesota, Mitchell Hamline School of Law, and more. Others teach history and social studies, pursue advanced degrees, or work in business, law enforcement, intelligence services, or state government and public policy.
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median pay in 2025
jobs in 2025
degree required
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for Reporters, Correspondents, and Broadcast News Analysts. Retrieved August 2026.
There is a need, now more than ever, for people of faith in politics. It goes far beyond political views or beliefs, but instead to the innate Christian values of respect, love, honor, and hard work. Those are values easily learned at the University of Northwestern — Saint Paul.
I have enjoyed being a part of the History and English department. I have learned so much about the world through my classes and interactions with my classmates and professors. I have learned that ideas and initiative matter a lot and can have drastic effects on the real world. My classmates and professors have encouraged me to grow in the gifts God has given me. They have also challenged me to use those gifts to work in His world and abide with Him.
I have deeply loved my time in the Department of English and History, and at Northwestern. My major has allowed me to explore many interests and given me opportunities to apply my knowledge. All my professors have been encouraging and have challenged me to think deeper about the different topics, issues, and perspectives in my field with nuance, understanding, and humility. My ability to dig deeper and ask good questions was developed and strengthened through my courses and different opportunities I had because of Northwestern.
Careers in politics, history, and economics
There are a variety of career and academic pathways that begin with a degree in Politics, History, and Economics.
What types of work are related to this degree?
- Law
- City Government (Urban and Regional Planning)
- Legislative or administrative support
- International Activities (Diplomacy, Non-Governmental Organizations)
- Non-Profit Administration
- Advocacy (Think-Tanks)
- Media and Communication related to Politics and Campaigns
What will I learn?
You will learn to think critically, research, write effectively, and expand your knowledge of politics, economics, and history.
PRL3387
Political Communication
This course focuses on developing the essential capabilities needed to serve as a communications consultant or employee on a political campaign or for a public affairs or public policy organization (special interest group). The course is designed to help students gain experience in researching, planning, staging, scripting and executing an array of communications used by public office seekers. Discussion of both political campaign principles and tactics is integrated into the course. Students should develop a strong understanding of the importance of communications in the political process.
POS2005
U.S. National Government
The study of the structure and processes of American national government and its political processes and institutions. Particular attention is paid to constitutionalism, federalism, the presidency, the Congress, the Judiciary, bureaucracy, interest groups, policy formation, and the rights and responsibilities of citizenship.
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Professors at Northwestern are focused on their students first. Our faculty include experts in their respective fields who want to help you grow in your faith while you earn your degree.
