What can I do with a major in Political Science?

Political science is the study of government and focuses on its structure and function and the necessity for human social order. Political science study attempts to provide the student with a better understanding of political parties, interest groups, international relationships, public law, public administration, liberty, freedom, justice and power. Major sub-branches include political theory and philosophy, comparative government, American government and politics, public administration, international relations and political behavior.

Related Occupations:
 

Possible employers of Political Science majors:

Skills important for Political Science majors:

• Ability to conduct and explain scientific research clearly
• Ability to communicate ideas to others
• Intellectual capacity to perform well in most undergraduate and graduate curriculums
• Ability to relate to people from varying backgrounds
• Ability to speak articulately, read comprehensively, and write well
• Aptitude for leadership
• Ability to organize and interpret social, economic, and political data
• Understanding of and sensitivity to community needs
• Ability to evaluate problems and make appropriate decisions
• Personal charisma and public appeal

• Achievement-oriented
• Desire for recognition 
• Desire to influence others
• Desire for prestige
• Poise
• Tendency to be ambitious and outgoing
• Desire to render public service
• Willingness to take risks
• Tactful
• Patient
• Perseverant
• Flexible
• Competitive

• Do an internship
• Attend political rallies or lectures
• Serve as a part time worker or volunteer as a precinct clerk, party worker or poll watcher
• Volunteer in a political campaign
• Join student government
• Serve in a public school or municipal office
• Join a debate team or political science club
• Join a professional organization
• Join a newspaper staff

Internet Resources:

• Social Scientists, Other, (Political Scientists), Occupational Outlook Handbook
• Social Workers, (Probation Officers), Occupational Outlook Handbook
• Management Analysts, (Consultants), Occupational Outlook Handbook
• Lawyers and Judicial Workers, Occupational Outlook Handbook

• Academy of Political Science
• American Political Science Association
• National Association of Schools of Public Affairs and Administration

• College Majors and Careers: A Resource Guide for Effective Life Planning, Revised Edition by Paul Phifer; 1997; Garret Park; Garret Park Press.
• The Career Center at CU-Denver’s homepage: www.cudenver.edu/Student+Life/Career+Center/default.htm
• Fort Lewis College, Career Service’s homepage: http://cso.fortlewis.edu