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History, Politics & Geography

Department of History, Politics, and Geography

We prepare graduates with a solid liberal arts education, ready for careers in fields like public history, law and government, foreign service, urban planning, and many more.

About the Department

In the Department of History, Politics, and Geography, you’ll benefit from a solid liberal arts education while preparing for a wide variety of careers. Students who pursue degrees in history, political science, or geography go on to careers in fields such as teaching, law, politics, public service, foreign services, urban planning, military, and government. Many of our students have successfully furthered their education in graduate or professional school.  

Our faculty provides interesting courses that deal with an understanding of how humans have come to develop the surface of our planet, the history of that development, and the ways in which people govern themselves today. The interdisciplinary nature of our subjects allow for convenient overlap among topics and opportunity for discussion by means of different viewpoints.

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Rural Law Opportunities Program (RLOP)

A cooperative program between Wayne State College and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) that recruits and educates students from rural Nebraska to become lawyers who will return to rural communities and practice law.  You’ll receive a full tuition scholarship at Wayne State College with guaranteed admission into the Nebraska College of Law.

Grant Mathis

“I love the personal experience that’s provided at Wayne State. My professors are always helpful and are extremely responsive to my questions and concerns. They have also been very helpful in securing an internship that will help me with my goals.”

 

Grant Mathis

Majors: Geography, Political Science
Hometown: Creighton, Neb.

History, Politics, and Geography Programs

Choose from our history, politics, and geography majors, or enhance your education by adding on a second major or minor. Explore your options here.

Program Name Bachelor's Pre-Professional or Affiliate Master's Minor Education Field Endorsement Education Subject Endorsement Supplemental Endorsement
Geography Explore      Explore       
Geography Education (6-12) Explore             
Geospatial Technology       Explore       
History Explore      Explore       
History Education (6-12) Explore             
Interdisciplinary Studies Explore    Explore  Explore       
International Studies       Explore       
Mapping       Explore       
Organizational Management - Online Master's Degree (MSOM)     Explore         
Political Science Explore      Explore       
Political Science Education (6-12) Explore             
Pre-Law       Explore       
Public Administration       Explore       
Public Affairs - Online Master's Degree (MSOM)     Explore         
Social Sciences Explore      Explore       
Social Sciences Education - Online Master's Degree Option (MSE)     Explore         
Social Studies Education (6-12) Explore             
Travel and Tourism       Explore       
Randy Bertolas, Ph.D.

“The Department of History, Politics, and Geography at Wayne State College invites students into the study of humanity. Through history we examine the lives of people in the past and what their actions reveal about human nature in the present. Through political science we consider the ways in which people make decisions on pressing issues in forums as diverse as town councils and the United Nations. Through geography we use space to think about our place in the world. Together we work to equip students to make sense of the world they have inherited and prepare them to shape it for the future.”

 

Randy Bertolas, Ph.D.

Department Chair
Professor of Geography

Outside the Classroom

At Wayne State College, you’ll have opportunities to enhance your education by participating in clubs, organizations, and more.

Student clubs and organizations

Clubs and Organizations

WSC Service-Learning

Service-Learning

Make a difference in the community while learning skills you can apply toward your future career. Wayne State’s Service-Learning program has received national awards in recognition of outstanding community service, with more than 400 students participating in Service-Learning projects each semester.

Student Activities for History, Geography and Political Science Majors

Opportunities

  • Research projects and more – Conduct your own research projects and present your work at area geography conferences. Additionally, you will have opportunities to attend lectures by guest speakers and embark on travel adventures to places of geographical interest.
  • Events and competitions – Show off your geography knowledge at WSC’s annual Geography Bowl, assist with the National Geographic State Bee in Nebraska, and participate in Social Sciences Day each semester.
  • Contribute to a cause – Help promote historical awareness, civic engagement, diversity, and opportunity through Multicultural Affairs and events like Constitution Day and the voter registration drive.
Student Teaching and Clinical Practice for Education Majors

Internships

We encourage all students to complete an internship before graduating, to gain experience in this field of study. Career Services is available to help you find the best internship opportunities.

Learn From the Best

Our faculty are accomplished. Several are highly regarded as experts and have been recognized with notable honors and awards. And with a low student-to-faculty ratio, you'll be sure to receive an excellent education in a personalized setting with a friendly atmosphere.

History, Politics, and Geography Scholarships

In addition to having the region’s most affordable tuition, we offer thousands of dollars in scholarships every year. Learn more about scholarships for history, politics, and geography students.

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