Due to its broad nature and emphasis on critical reasoning
and professional skills, a degree in political science opens a wide variety of
career opportunities. Political science combines the depth and beauty of a
liberal arts education with the acquisition of practical knowledge and
transferable skills.
Our graduates go on to graduate and law schools and to
rewarding careers in fields such as law, government, politics, intelligence
analysis, law enforcement, business, lobbying, journalism, education and
research.
In the Workforce
Law
Graduates who completed law school can join law firms, go
into private practice, work for corporations, interest groups and non-profit
organizations, and serve in federal, state and local government.
Government and Civil Service
Graduates can pursue careers in government at every level:
federal, state and local. They can work in the legislative, executive and
judicial branches of government and in a wide variety of government agencies.
Students interested in such careers should consider law school or a graduate
degree in political science, public administration, public policy, business or
international relations.
Intelligence Analysis, Homeland Security and Armed Forces
Graduates can find careers in intelligence analysis, law
enforcement, homeland security and national defense. Students interested in
such careers should consider law school or a graduate degree in international
relations or another appropriate field.
Electoral Politics
Graduates can hold positions as campaign managers,
legislative staff and elected officials and worked for political action
committees, special interest groups and political parties.
Nonprofit Organizations
Graduates can work for foundations and organizations that
promote the public interest in public health, education, the environment,
labor, urban issues and civil rights.
International Organizations
Graduates can hold positions with voluntary agencies,
non-governmental organizations, international businesses, international
governmental agencies and other international organizations. Students
interested in such careers should consider a graduate degree international
relations, business administration or economics.
Business, Lobbying and Consulting
Graduates have pursued careers in management, public relations,
human resources, sales and advertising. Graduates can pursue careers with
business and labor groups, as well as a growing variety of public interest
groups dealing with such issues as the environment, public health and safety,
and community development.
Journalism
Graduates can pursue print, broadcast and online journalism.
Students interested in such careers should consider either a double major in English
communications or a master’s degree in journalism.
Education and Research
Graduates can pursue
careers as teachers in public and private schools, professors at colleges and
universities and educational administrators. Graduates can also work for research
organizations and think tanks focused on foreign affairs, American politics,
public policy, the environment, the economy and various social problems.
Students interested in such careers may need to pursue advanced training in
education.