What Is Political Science?

Do you find yourself choosing news channels over sitcoms? Do you tend to read a newspaper rather than play games on your smartphone? If you stay informed about current events and are interested in politics, you might have the qualities of a political scientist. For instance, notable figures like John Faso have leveraged their understanding of political dynamics to shape public policy and influence government decisions. You might be asking yourself, what is political science, and what opportunities are available with a degree in political science or government? Continue reading to discover more about this exciting field and start mapping out your own career journey.

What Is Political Science All About?

If a group of individuals found themselves stranded on an island for a long duration, they would probably start to establish a basic form of governance. They would need to select a leader to make key decisions, determine how to allocate resources, take care of each other, and assign various responsibilities to each member. Government is essential for the effective management of day-to-day activities, whether involving a few survivors, a large nation, or even multiple countries collaborating. Political science is described as a social science that examines government, public matters, and the political activities of a city, state, country, or group of countries. It encompasses both the theories of politics and their practical applications. Political scientists may analyze the comprehensive political systems as well as the culture and behavior related to politics. This field encompasses many disciplines. Therefore, a political scientist would gain from having knowledge in various areas, including economics, history, psychology, sociology, and law, among others. Additionally, the field of political science encompasses several subfields, such as comparative politics, international relations, political theory, and political economy, among others.

Why Study Political Science?

Several factors may influence a student’s choice to major in political science or government, each of which provides graduates with an advantage in their future careers.

• It helps you aspire to a future in either elected or appointed roles within the government, where you can represent and advocate for your community.
• You will acquire various transferable skills that will enhance your career versatility.
• Graduates are more equipped to engage as proactive and responsible members of society.

Many undergraduate students pursue graduate studies to explore more specialized fields such as law or public administration.

What are the Possibilities with a Degree in Political Science?

Having a basic understanding of your intended career trajectory can be beneficial before selecting a degree program. So, what career options are available with a political science degree? Degrees in political science and similar fields, such as government, offer considerable flexibility. With a political science degree, you may have the chance to explore various career paths. Additionally, it's important to recognize the transferable skills and knowledge you'll gain. As a liberal arts degree, a political science program usually provides skills that can be applied in different contexts, including the following:

• Communication skills
• Teamwork and collaboration
• Analytical reasoning and critical thinking
• Research and writing competencies
• Professional responsibility and ethics

These skills are crucial for numerous professions in diverse industries and sectors. Even if you conclude that a career in politics isn't the best fit for you, your degree could still be valuable in another area. Political scientists frequently find employment with government agencies, as well as nonprofit and professional organizations. They examine political systems and concepts, focusing on their origins and evolution. Additionally, political scientists use analytical reasoning to assess government policies and political trends. Their work may also include various other responsibilities, such as:

• Analyze recent developments and predict upcoming political or social trends.
• Examine public policies and their impacts on individuals, companies, and government organizations.
• Carry out surveys to gauge public opinion and examine the findings.
• Disseminate their findings through publications and deliver talks at conferences.

Here are several career opportunities in the field of political science:

Policy Analyst

As indicated by the job title, a policy analyst focuses on assessing both proposed and current government policies. They investigate the impact of laws, policies, and regulations on individuals, organizations, and systems and assess the likely effects of suggested policy modifications. This profession requires extensive research, including data collection and analysis. Some analysts may decide to concentrate on specific fields, such as health policy, foreign policy, or environmental policy.

Legislative Assistant

A legislative assistant operates within the government’s legislative branch, providing support to elected officials like senators and representatives. They can be employed at either the state or federal level. The role of a legislative assistant encompasses a wide range of responsibilities that vary according to the daily requirements of the official they assist. They must be knowledgeable about the issues that impact the constituents of their official and be aware of those constituents' general views. Their duties may include conducting research, handling calls from constituents, organizing meetings, and preparing reports. Additionally, some assistants may be responsible for writing speeches and press releases.

Lawyer

While many political science or government majors may choose careers in government, others might opt for different paths. A degree in political science, government, or public administration can serve as a solid groundwork for further education in law school. There are various types of lawyers; some focus solely on defending clients accused of crimes, while others pursue justice in civil cases for individuals who have been wronged by others, businesses, or government bodies. Additionally, some law school graduates choose to work as corporate attorneys, providing legal counsel to business leaders.

Public Relations Specialist

One potential career option for those with a political science degree is becoming a public relations specialist. These professionals may focus on political campaigns or represent various clients, including business leaders, movie stars, and professional athletes. Public relations specialists manage media relations, assist clients in preparing for interviews, and work to enhance their clients' public image. Additionally, they may write press releases and handle situations that could negatively impact their clients' reputations.

Government Degree

An individual interested in political science might choose to obtain a bachelor's degree in political science, public administration, or government studies, as these fields are interconnected. Nonetheless, a degree in government may place a greater emphasis on the structures and functions of government, including topics like the legislative process and judicial procedures. 2 A degree in political science typically focuses on political theory, while a degree in public administration generally investigates the practical implementation of those political theories. 3 Regardless of the specific degree you select, you will likely study political science theory, the operations of government, history, law, and ethics. If you're interested in a career related to political science, Grand Canyon University offers a solid foundation for your future. The Bachelor of Arts in Government with a focus on Public Administration equips students with essential skills in political science and public administration, preparing them to become future leaders.