Political Science

Students who major in political science examine government, politics, and how they work. They become familiar with the major issues affecting our world; past and present. They enjoy watching the news daily, keeping up with current events, and as a result, usually develop their own well-formed political opinions. Inside the classroom, they hold open discussion spurred by the professor. It’s important these students gain solid critical thinking and communication skills. Grades are often determined through class participation, essays and research papers. Students must become familiar with world history and different cultures. Classes may include comparative politics, international relations, research methods, economics and theory. Additional classes taken in history, sociology and philosophy supplement the major.

Although political science isn’t a professional program, it prepares students for careers in government, politics, communications, advocacy, teaching, management and law. Those who value civic responsibility can find rewarding careers after graduation. For example, political science majors with passion for a specific issue can work for a nonprofit advocacy organization that functions to resolve that issue on a daily basis. Knowledge of policy is important and the few who possess it are invaluable. Job growth is expected for advocacy and civic organizations at a rate of 14 percent through 2018, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Similar growth is expected for government employment as well.