What Career Can I Get With a Bachelor's in Political Science?

Political science majors are found in a wide range of careers. The skills they develop in college are highly adaptable. The ability to write skillfully, argue persuasively and think critically, and to analyze data, conduct research and understand how people think -- all skills taught to political science majors -- are sought after in many settings.

Working With Words

Political science majors can be outstanding journalists, using their writing and analytical skills and their interest in the way government works and how groups of people think. Other careers that require advanced skill with words include public relations, editing and working in broadcasting. Internships and working on student publications provide a good background for these careers.

Business, Nonprofit Organizations and Government

Working for business, nonprofits, and local, state or federal government are all popular choices for political science majors, who can be found in all levels of organizations and in many different roles. They may be managers, executives, administrators or salespeople. They often work in research-intensive jobs, such as policy analyst, legislative analyst or city planner. While careers are available at the bachelor's level, a master's degree in business or public administration may be helpful -- if not when you first start, then later. If you are interested in these careers, you can get your foot in the door by doing an internship.

Politics

While some political science majors use their degrees as general liberal arts degrees and veer off from the subject matter they studied in college, others work directly in the political arena. They can be campaign managers, pollsters, political commentators or lobbyists -- or they may run for office themselves. If you are interested in working in politics, the time-honored way to get started is by volunteering to work on campaigns.

Law

While a substantial number of political science majors go on to law school, opportunities exist for law-related careers at the bachelor' level. Possibilities include working as a paralegal, legal assistant or congressional staffer. A paralegal certificate, while not always required, may open some doors. Law enforcement careers are another option. If you do decide to go to law school later, these earlier law-related job experiences will be an asset when you look for a post-law-school job.

Education

Political science majors can teach high school history or government or they can work as school administrators. If this interests you, be prepared to meet the state teacher certification requirements.

References

• College Xpress; What Can You Do With a Political Science Major?; Rebecca VanderMeulen
• CalPoly Career Services: What Can I Do With This Degree? Political Science and Government
• CNN Money; Poli Sci Majors Take Up Lobbying, Campaigning and Managerial Posts; Shelly K. Schwartz; September 2000
• The American Political Science Association: Careers in Political Science