Politics and law
Certificate, undergraduate
Explore the intersection of law and politics
The politics and law undergraduate certificate provides a deep dive into the intersection of legal systems and political structures. You’ll gain hands-on experience analyzing original source materials, including judicial opinions, historical documents and scholarly research. Through rigorous training in logical reasoning and critical thinking, you’ll learn to construct well-founded arguments, evaluate policies and interpret complex legal and political information.
This program emphasizes both the how and the why: how laws are shaped and applied, how political decisions are made and why critical evaluation is essential for understanding contemporary challenges. By completing this certificate, you’ll be prepared to engage with public policy, legal research, political analysis or advanced academic study and be equipped with tools to ask tough questions, uncover evidence and make reasoned, informed decisions.
Building skills in legal and political reasoning
Degree fit
This certificate could be a good fit if you:
- Are pursuing or have an undergraduate degree in political science, philosophy, law, history or related disciplines.
- Want foundational training in logical reasoning, legal analysis and political research.
- Are interested in applying critical thinking to evaluate policies, judicial opinions and political systems.
Career outcomes
Current job openings
2,978 in ID, WA, OR, MT and HIPotential careers and mid-career salaries
- Regulatory Affairs Managers • Compliance Managers • Loss Prevention Managers
$101,152 - Political Scientists
$129,576 - Social Science Research Assistants
$51,705 - Postsecondary Political Science Teachers
$82,848 - Secondary School Teachers
$78,817
* Career data provided by Lightcast.
Financial aid and scholarship opportunities
U of I’s certificate programs are not eligible for financial aid or scholarships on their own. However, students enrolled in a bachelor’s or associate degree program may apply their financial aid and scholarships toward a certificate if they are pursuing both simultaneously.
For more information or to explore funding options, contact the Financial Aid Office at finaid@uidaho.edu or call 208-885-6312.
Clubs and involvement opportunities
Hands-on learning
- Cook Undergraduate Research Journal (student-run research journal)
- West Coast Model EU (simulation conference)
- European Politics Experience (departmental study abroad program)
Clubs and organizations
- Associated Students of University of Idaho (ASUI)
- Pre-Law Society
- Poli Sci Society
Internships
Application information
Admission criteria for undergraduate certificates are the same as those for U of I undergraduate degree programs. View our admission requirements to learn more.
Undergraduate certificate application process
Students interested in adding a certificate to their bachelor’s or associate degree program should speak with their academic advisor.
Students interested in earning an undergraduate certificate as a standalone program should contact the Admissions Office at 208-885-6326 for information on how to apply.