The first job that comes to mind when political science students consider their career prospects may be one of the most obvious: a career in elected office. However, a bachelor’s in political science leads to many professional paths, ranging from campaign management to a role connecting businesses to government officials.
As part of the online Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Political Science – Minor Required program from Northwest Missouri State University, students learn where political systems, governance and public policy intersect. Thanks to the flexibility and customizable nature of the program, rising political leaders can tailor their education to their career goals and immediately step into the exciting world of political science.
Personalizing Your Political Science Degree for Professional Growth
According to the American Political Science Association, to study political science is to examine how governance — ideas like political thought, behavior, institutions and laws — leads to certain political and social outcomes at local, state, national and international levels. Students explore the influence of power and authority and how it impacts lives and systems.
Pursuing a successful career in political science requires a unique blend of communication and research skills combined with well-developed leadership capabilities, according to Indeed. Students also gain a greater understanding of government regulations and their effect on business, as well as the relationship between government institutions and the people they serve.
Northwest’s online B.S. in Political Science – Minor Required program is rooted in these principles, providing students with a robust curriculum that includes a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills. For students interested in entering the campaign world, the Elections, Parties, and Interest Groups course surveys the development, organization and function of U.S. political parties and their interest groups. International Conflict Resolution is a valuable course for students interested in international relations. Those who want to pursue a career in the legal field can dig deeper in courses like Constitutional Law.
What Jobs Can You Get With an Online Political Science Bachelor’s Degree?
Political science graduates have their pick of a wide range of careers that could take them from Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C. to a campaign headquarters in their home state. The following are just a few examples of opportunities available to graduates of Northwest’s program:
Policy Analyst
Policy analysts research and evaluate the effectiveness of policies and propose solutions to public issues. They work in government agencies, think tanks, nonprofit organizations and private firms. The average annual salary for a policy analyst in the U.S. is $100,949, with potential growth depending on experience and expertise, according to ZipRecruiter.
Lobbyist
Lobbyists advocate for specific legislation or policies on behalf of organizations, interest groups and corporations. This role requires using knowledge of the political process to influence lawmakers and public opinion. The average salary for a lobbyist is over $81,428 per year, according to Indeed.
Campaign Manager
Political campaign managers organize and direct the operations of political campaigns. They coordinate strategy, manage budgets, oversee campaign staff and serve as the public face of the campaign. According to ZipRecruiter, the average annual salary for a political campaign manager is approximately $73,870, though this can vary widely based on the scale and success of the campaign.
Intelligence Analyst
Intelligence analysts work for government agencies like the FBI, analyzing data to identify and assess potential threats to national security. This role requires strong analytical skills and a deep understanding of international relations and political dynamics. On average, intelligence analysts earn an annual salary of around $82,454, per ZipRecruiter data.
Public Administration Officer
Public administration officers, also known as public affairs officers, manage the public image and communications strategy for organizations, particularly within the government or military. They handle media relations and ensure accurate delivery of their organization’s views to the public. The average salary for a public affairs officer is approximately $109,289 per year, according to ZipRecruiter.
Why Earn a Political Science Bachelor’s Degree Online from Northwest?
Pursuing Northwest’s online B.S. in Political Science – Minor Required program allows students to engage with a rigorous curriculum at their own pace while also customizing their learning through a chosen minor. With its customizable curriculum and focus on practical skills, graduates are well prepared to enter a variety of rewarding and impactful careers.
Learn more about Northwest Missouri State University’s online Bachelor of Science in Political Science – Minor Required program.
