Schools with political science programs have noticed an increase in
enrollment over the past ten years as students become clearer about the various
career opportunities available for someone with a political science degree. In
fact, political science ranks only behind psychology as the most popular science
degree pursued today.
A political science degree program is one of the most diverse degree programs
available in colleges and universities. Students who complete their degree work
will be prepared to enter a variety of industries or go on to focus their
studies in graduate school. They learn valuable skills and abilities that
translate well into different career paths. These skills include:
• Think independently and
critically
• Communicate
clearly and persuasively
•
Understand complex social
structures
• Handle diversity
effectively with a genuine concern for current affairs
Students learn about the various causes and effects of politics, the
government's policy-making process, and the social and political consequences of
certain laws, procedures, and political institutions. Although these skills are
considered broad enough to apply to several different career paths, a political
science education is unique in the way it prepares students to handle community
issues on many different levels of the political system.
Depending on the specific career you choose, you may need additional training
beyond your degree in order to be competitive. Many political science graduates
go on to obtain government jobs at the local, state, and federal levels. Some
positions include:
• Congressional
aide
• Intelligence
Officer
• Assistant District
Attorney
• Research
Assistant
• State
Representative
• County/City
Official
A career in law is another common choice for political
science graduates. Critical thinking skills and an avid interest in public
affairs allow students to shine. They can obtain positions within state, local,
and federal court and government systems as lawyers, federal clerks, corrections
officers, or police officers.
International affairs is another career choice to consider. The United
Nations, international business, as well as the many different international
relief and aid groups are always searching for candidates who understand the
problems created by our country's increasing interdependence with other nations.
You can work for non-profit organizations, economic development agencies,
foreign civil service offices, or international rights organizations. Positions
of interest include:
• Political
Analyst
• Human Rights
Analyst
• Foreign Service
Agent
• International Rights
Activist
• Civil
Servant
• Customs Officer
Another area of interest for political science graduates is journalism and
communications, specifically as they relate to public affairs, government, and
political science. A political science degree provides the necessary preparation
for a career in this field. It will allow you to share your expertise with radio
or television stations, newspapers, print publications, or research firms.
Careers include:
•
Reporter
• Freelance
Writer
• Press
Secretary
• Radio or
Television Researcher
Education is another popular field of interest. Many political science
graduates go on to obtain advanced MA or PhD degrees. They are employed by
various colleges and universities, community colleges, private schools, prep
schools, and public schools that teach grades Kindergarten through 12. They may
teach government, history, or civics classes according to individual state
education courses and licensing requirements.
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