Political Science Career Outlook

A general program that focuses on the systematic study of political institutions and behavior. Includes instruction in political philosophy, political theory, comparative government and politics, political parties and interest groups, public opinion, political research methods, studies of the government and politics of specific countries, and studies of specific political institutions and processes.

To find out more about your major including potential areas and employers, required skills, job outlook, and median pay, please access the Occupational Outlook Handbook or O*Net websites.

Career Outlook

Explore the subsections below to learn more about the potential skills a student with a political science major can develop as well as the potential positions, areas, and employers that hire students with this degree. Please note that these are not exhaustive lists and should be used as a starting point.

Skills

As a political science major, students may develop or advance skills including oral and written communication, research, analytical, interpersonal, an understanding of the U.S. political system, logic, cultural awareness and an international perspective

Positions

Graduates with a degree in political science can work as economists, Archivists/Curators, Government Affairs Representatives, Legislative Assistants, Lobbyists, Paralegals, Political Campaign positions, Urban and regional Planners, Volunteer Coordinators.

Areas

Graduates with a degree in political science can work within the following areas: public policy, urban planning, legislative/executive/judicial, law enforcement, intelligence/foreign service, nonprofits, legal aid, political campaigns/parties, public relations, resource development, communications/media, market research, fundraising/development.

Employers

Graduates with a degree in political science can work for federal, state, and local governments, townships, court systems, corporations, law firms, religious organizations, defense contractors, labor unions, libraries/museums, foundations.

Helpful Resources

Use the employment opportunity resources below to kickstart your preprofessional and or professional experience search. You may also identify a professional or student organization to join and network with indivdiuals in your major and field. Please note that these are not exhaustive lists and should be used as a starting point.