Political Science
Political science is the study of governments, public policies and political processes, systems, and political behavior. Political scientists study the political processes, systems, and dynamics of towns, cities, states, and nations all over the world by using human and scientific perspectives and tools. Skills earned in political science studies can be employed in many careers in business, education, government, international affairs, journalism, law, non-profit organizations, and politics. If several of those careers interest you, a political science program may be ideal for you.
Concentrations
Political Science does not have many variations and should be approached by focusing on the level of education you need to attain in order to reach the specialization in which you are most interested. Bachelor’s degree programs include:
- Bachelor of Science in Political Science
- Business with a Public Administration Minor
- Organizational Management/Political Science
- Social Science/Political Science
If you are concentrating on a more advanced degree, the following master’s programs are available:
- Master of Arts in Diplomacy
- Master of Arts in Leadership and Public Administration
- Master of Arts in Public Policy
- Master of Justice Administration
- Master of Management Public Administration
- Master of Professional Studies in Political Management
- Master of Professional Studies in Strategic Public Relations
- Negotiation and Dispute Resolution
Qualities and Skills
Political scientists must have excellent research skills as well as good oral and written communication skills. Intellectual curiosity is an advantage, and they must be able to think logically and methodically. The ability to analyze and to think objectively are also good skills to possess. Lastly, patience and perseverance will serve a political scientist well.
Occupations
Since political science can enhance any career, the possibilities are endless. Some jobs you may attain with your political science degree include:
- Budget Analyst
- Career Counselor
- CIA Analyst
- City Planner
- City Housing Administrator
- Communications Director
- Corporate Economist
- Customs Officer
- Federal Government Analyst
- High School Government Teacher
- Immigration Officer
- Intelligence Officer
- International Research Specialist
- Journalist
- Mediator
- Policy Analyst
- Public Affairs Research Analyst
- Survey Analyst
- Urban Policy Planner
Earnings
Salaries will vary by sector and by education level.
Online Colleges Offering Degrees in Political Science
New England College
It has a 13 to 1 student-faculty ratio, and 75% of the faculty members hold terminal degrees. The goal of New England College is to provide a creative and supportive learning community that challenges individuals to transform themselves and their world.
Bowling Green State University
While Bowling Green State University was originally established as an institution for educators and boasts today that it is the 14th largest producer of teachers in the United States, it offers more than 200 undergraduate majors. In addition to its seven undergraduate colleges, BGSU offers Master’s and doctoral level programs as well.
Benedictine University
Along with 17 other institutions, Benedictine University is part of the Association of Benedictine Colleges and Universities, and its mission and vision reflect Catholic and Benedictine traditions.
Kaplan University
Kaplan University is part of Kaplan Higher Education Corporation (KHE); a division of Kaplan, Inc. Since 1938, Kaplan has developed an extensive and renowned tradition as both a pioneer in academics and career- producer.
National University
Headquartered in La Jolla, California, National University is the second-largest, private, nonprofit institution of higher learning in California with over 22,000 full-time students and more than 113,000 alumni. Students can earn an Associate, Bachelor, Master, or Specialist degree. The university offers over 100 undergraduate and graduate degree programs, as well as 16 teacher credential and certificate programs.
Norwich University
For 20 years, Norwich University’s Cadets and traditional students have shared the same campus. Norwich is a small and private university that blends the military tradition of nearly two centuries along with a wide range of traditional undergraduate degree programs.
