About Political Science Careers

Contrary to popular opinion, political science majors are not limited to careers in elective office, government bureaucracies or teaching. A wide range of career options exist for those who receive their Bachelor's degrees in this field.

Benefits

Political science teaches critical thinking, analytical and writing abilities. Businesses and organizations highly value these skills, so a political science degree is applicable to many career paths.

Features

Many political science majors go on to careers in Federal, state or local governments. They may work as agency personnel, while others work as aides to legislative or executive officials. Some, of course, use this experience to build political contacts and prepare to seek elected office.

Types

Political science careers are not, however, limited to the public sector. Some political science majors work as corporate public affairs officers or as managers of non-profit agencies. Others work in education, journalism or research.

Effects

A political science degree is excellent preparation for some careers that require additional education, such as law or public administration. Some people with political science degrees obtain Master's or doctorate degrees in the field to pursue careers as college teachers.

Considerations

Other college coursework and experience in addition to their studies in political science may help determine the career paths of students who major in this field. People interested in business careers, for example, should supplement their political science studies with business courses in fields such as management, marketing and accounting.

Resources

• American Political Science Association