Political science offers a wide range of careers in government organizations, law firms, research institutions, and universities. Common careers include policy and research analysts, journalists, policy consultants, lawyers, and judges. A bachelor’s degree is the minimum requirement, but many pursue a master’s or doctoral degree.
Political science is a very broad field that incorporates the study of historical and modern political systems, government policies and procedures, international relations and public affairs. There are many political science careers available to analytical and experienced professionals in government organizations, law firms, research institutions, and universities, among other settings. The most common careers in political science include policy and research analysts, journalists, policy consultants, lawyers and judges.
Individuals with specialized knowledge of public policy and research analysis often find careers in political science with nonprofit groups, research institutions, and government offices. Individuals can research historical policy decisions or analyze the effectiveness of current ones using information from polls and public records. Many policy and research analysts produce detailed reports that are used by politicians, judges and other government officials to influence future decisions.
Many graduates of political science programs choose to become involved in print, television or radio journalism, where they apply their specialist knowledge of political systems to create reports on current events. Political scientists may cover elections, conduct interviews, or attend press conferences where they often have the opportunity to ask questions. Most journalists recognize the importance of objectivity and try to present their stories and reports in a way that reflects factual information rather than opinion.
Political consultants are political science experts who work alongside politicians and government officials, helping them make important decisions in a variety of different situations. Consultants to city or state officials often focus on local issues, such as raising money for schools or health care facilities. Individuals involved in policy advice to federal politicians may specialize in proposing international agreements, changing environmental policy, raising or lowering taxes, or making important economic decisions.
People who fully understand the nature and meaning of constitutions, decisions, and regulations often pursue careers in political science. Judges and lawyers generally have extensive knowledge of historical court decisions and public policy. Many attorneys are involved in reviewing legislative decisions and determining whether or not a case is worth pursuing. Judges are elected officials, and those with extensive experience in political science can apply their knowledge of elections and public opinion to help them win positions.
To pursue most careers in political science, individuals generally must earn, at a minimum, bachelor’s degrees from accredited universities. Many people choose to pursue a master’s or doctoral degree in the subject to solidify their understanding of political systems and improve their chances of finding meaningful employment. Many new government officials, law firms and journalism institutions begin their careers as assistants to established professionals in the field, where they have the opportunity to observe the detailed work involved in such jobs.
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