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Program Overview
The American Politics and Government Certificate (APGC) is available to all students seeking knowledge, skills, and abilities relating to American politics, government, and administration. Acquisition of this certificate confirms completion of foundational courses in American government institutions, political theory, and public policy. This certificate supports the College’s mission of promoting academic excellence, professional advancement, and initiatives relating to justice (i.e., equity and inclusion). Completion of the certificate prepares students for (a) post-secondary academic achievement, (b) technical / vocational success, and (c) public sector careers in local, state, and national government.
Transfer
All certificate courses transfer one-to-one to University of Wisconsin schools and other post-secondary institutions. Direct transferability varies according to major and college of choice. Check with your advisor and transfer school for verification of qualified courses. There are currently no Transfer Partnerships for this program. Review our Transfer Opportunities for information on all Madison College transfer options.
Program Details
Students earning the American Politics and Government Certificate can attend full or part time.
University Transfer classes may be offered at these Madison College campuses:
- Madison - Truax
- Madison - Goodman South Campus
For more information email Maurice Sheppard at mcsheppard@madisoncollege.edu.
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Curriculum and Experience
Prospective program students, the information below reflects the basic requirements for students admitted for the 2025-2026 academic year. To learn more about Madison College, visit us.
Current and newly admitted program students, go directly to your Degree Progress Report to view:
- Progress toward your specific requirements
- Alternative (in lieu of) courses to meet specific requirements
If you have questions after reviewing your degree progress report (advisement report), please see Advising Services.
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Admission
Earning a certificate is a great way to expand your skill set and add professionalism to your resume. Applications are always open, so apply today!
To Apply
There are no admission requirements for this certificate. Simply submit your application by the deadline for each term.
International students who wish to apply for, maintain, or transfer their F-1 student visa status to Madison College are required to complete the International Admission Process.Application Dates
Fall 2025
- Application open
- Application completion deadline is October 15, 2025
Spring 2026
- Application available on September 15, 2025
- Application completion deadline is March 15, 2026
Additional Notes
- Certificate programs are not eligible for financial aid
- Class capacity is limited and is available on a first come, first served basis
- Students who have already completed the certificate coursework at the time of application will receive the certificate diploma at the end of the term of application
After Acceptance
Once you are admitted into your program, review the Start of Semester Checklist to prepare for your first day of classes at Madison College.
Questions?
Contact the Enrollment Center at EnrollmentServices@madisoncollege.edu or 608.246.6210.
Get Started!
Apply to Madison College and take the first step towards your American Politics and Government career.
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Career Outcomes
Transfer Pathways
This certificate serves as a gateway to the University Transfer – Social Sciences Pre-major. Students should consult their Academic Advisor or Social Science pre-major Advisor for more information.
Critical Job Skills
Students completing this certificate gain knowledge of the public-sector knowledge, develop written communication skills, and improvement problem-solving abilities that employees seek and are critical to success in the modern American workplace. This certificate enhances a student’s probability of career success in the public sector or private sector.
Academic and Professional Development
This certificate contributes to student success in all of the University Transfer Pre-Majors and Interdisciplinary Global Studies. Pre-Majors of specific relevance include Social Science, Education, Arts and Humanities, Economics and Business, and Science, Math, and Technology. Students should consult their Academic Advisor or Program Coordinator for more information.
Earn Credits toward an Associate Degree
All American Politics and Government Certificate courses may be used as electives for a University Transfer Arts associate degree. Students should consult their Academic Advisor or Program Coordinator for more information.
Address six of the eight Madison College Core Abilities
Core abilities identified by Madison College are critical skills graduates gain during progression of their studies and use as lifelong learners at home, work, or in the community. American Politics and Government Certificate curriculum contributes to the following core abilities: communication, critical thinking, ethics, global and cultural perspectives, self-management, and social interaction.
