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Political Science

What can I do with a major in

Political Science

The College of Liberal Arts & Sciences Offers a BA and a BGS in Political Science which is the study of politics, power, governance, and public policy.


Political Science majors develop the following skills:


Research: Interpreting data, Developing research designs and models, Programming and systems analysis, Utilizing survey research methods, Comparing/contrasting ideas and information

Communication: Presenting ideas and data clearly, Influencing and persuading people/groups, Mediating/negotiating conflicts, Public speaking, Listening critically

Analysis: Interpreting issues and data, Understanding components of complex problems, Offering relevant perspectives, Synthesizing themes from complex issues

Planning and Development: Making projections, Organizing people/equipment/ideas, Logistical thinking, Conceptualizing and implementing projects, Decision making

Depending on your desired career path, additional skills may need to be developed.  Make an appointment with a career consultant to design your individual career development plan.


Build skills Beyond the Classroom

  • Join related clubs, professional associations, activities, and organizations
  • Read professional journals in the field
  • Find volunteer work in a related area
  • Find part-time employment in a similar area
  • Job shadow someone working in the field
  • Conduct an informational interview with someone working in this area of interest
  • Obtain an internship
  • Work with a mentor or alum.  Contact the Hawk to Hawk program at the KU Alumni Center.

Internship Websites

 

Employment Websites


Career Planning and Resources


Professional Associations

Sample Careers for Political Science Majors 

Politics and Government

Skills in public speaking, analyzing issues, and persuading and organizing others make Political Science majors well suited for:

Career Options
City manager
Corrections officer
Lawyer
Legal investigator
Legislative aide
Paralegal
Public opinion analyst
Public health administrator
Staff assistant
Urban policy planner

Potential Employers
Federal/State/Local Government Agencies
Law Firms
Political Parties
Politicians
Pollsters 

Public Interest and Social Change

Skills in planning and development and communication make Political Science majors well suited for:

Career Options
Association executive
Canvass director
Development director
Direct mail specialist
Environmental lawyer
Event coordinator/activity planner
Grant writer
Issues director
Lobbyist
Peace Corps volunteer coordinator
Publications director
Strategist

Potential Employers
Federal/State/Local Government Agencies
Law Firms
Non-Profit Organizations
Think Tanks 


 

Business and Industry

Skills in analysis and communication make Political Science majors well suited for:

Career Options
Industry lobbyist
Multinational marketing  research analyst
Public affairs officer
Regulatory analyst
Systems analyst

Potential Employer
Consulting Firms
Financial Services Firms
Government Agencies
Marketing Firms 

Communications

Skills in analysis and communication make Political Science majors well suited for:

Career Options
Editor
Editorial assistant
News public opinion analyst
Press agent
Professor
Public affairs reporter

Potential Employers
Colleges and Universities
Newspapers/Magazines
On-line Websites

 For information on these occupations


 

 

 

 

 

 

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