POLITICAL SCIENCE
Are you interested in American politics? International affairs? Critical issues such as public policy, globalization, terrorism, the environment, civil rights, political development, or foreign policy?
Theories concerning the ideal government and how power and resources are allocated in society? Do you want to study these subjects and pursue a career based on them? If so, political science is the major for you. Political science delves into the study of governments, public policies, and political behavior. It is a social science which uses both humanistic perspectives and scientific skills to examine the United States and all countries and regions of the world.
As a political science major, you will hone the writing, communication, analytical, and data skills that are fundamental to a liberal arts education. This kind of education will prepare you to think critically and independently, help you appreciate differing points of view, and broaden your knowledge of current affairs. Today, students can reasonably expect to change jobs more than once and even have more than one career. An undergraduate education in the liberal arts is excellent preparation for flexibility in employment.
First class training in political science, that’s been the basis of my career, and all the experiences have simply added and reinforced and strengthened that training.
– Donna Shalala, Former Secretary, Department of Health & Human Services
Majoring in political science can qualify you for many different careers in private, for-profit, and non-profit organizations, as well as the public sector. Graduates can pursue careers in
- law
- consulting
- research
- business and finance
- state, local, and federal government
- journalism, media, and communications
- community service
- advocacy
- non-governmental and non-profit organizations
- teaching
The following is small sample of potential careers:
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Adapted from the American Political Science Association.
The connection between political science and the work I do here is the practical application of participation, helping young people participate, whether it’s in organizing at their high school, organizing at their college, or organizing…in their neighborhood.
– Kate Coyer, Former Projects Director, Rock the Vote
