There are few educational paths more versatile and widely applicable to your future career goals than pursuing a degree in political science. It may not seem so at first glance: After all, political science is “the scientific study of politics,” according to Indeed, and it deals primarily with the nuts and bolts of law and governance. Yet even students who don’t plan to work in politics can gain enormous practical benefits from majoring in political science.
The positive outcomes of earning a degree in the field, such as the one offered by Northwest Missouri State University’s online Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Political Science – Public Administration program, are numerous and rewarding. For example, pursuing a degree in this field can lead to a deeper understanding of the citizen-state relationship, knowledge about political historical events, skills in current affairs, practice in political analysis and critical thinking, an understanding of strategies for advocacy and much more, as per Indeed. These are important skills with broad applicability in different sectors, so no matter what your career ambitions are, a degree in political science will almost certainly set you up for success.
What Is a Political Science Degree?
First, it is essential to understand precisely what a political science degree is and what a typical course of study might look like. Political science, according to Indeed, is a “social science that studies power systems and analyses constitutions and laws.” Furthermore, students who study this important field will also “develop an understanding of institutions, practices and relations and the role of politics throughout history and current political affairs or systems,” notes Indeed.
So, what should you expect if you decide to pursue a degree in political science? Students in programs like Northwest’s B.S. in Political Science – Public Administration program will likely take a deep dive into what it’s like for public organizations to make crucial decisions, with coursework that sharpens and expands your knowledge of public policy. For example, Indeed notes that a political science degree will teach students how political bodies, like legislatures and courts, function in society, as well as how both politicians and citizens interact with them. “Students majoring in or concentrating on political science study the role politics plays throughout history and current political affairs and systems,” states Indeed.
What Can You Do With a Political Science Degree?
There are numerous potential options available to graduates with a degree in political science. One route might be to pursue additional education, such as a master’s degree in political science or a law degree. Another option would be to enter the public policy sector through a career in public administration, which ThoughtCo. defines as “a field of governance in which leaders serve communities to advance the common good and effect positive change.”
A job in public administration may involve working for a local, state or federal government agency. But the role can also encompass employment in the nonprofit sector, which often works closely with public entities to best serve the public. A graduate of Northwest’s B.S. in Political Science – Public Administration program would be particularly well-suited for this kind of career, given the program’s particular focus on management and administration skills.
How to Start a Career in Political Science?
Of course, if you love the field of political science, then the best option might be to pursue a career in the field itself. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), political scientists “study the origin, development, and operation of political systems.” That said, becoming a political scientist frequently require a master’s degree or a PhD, although the BLS notes that some employers may consider candidates with just a bachelor’s degree.
Whether or not you intend to continue your studies at a higher level, the B.S. in Political Science – Public Administration offered by Northwest would be a perfect start. With this foundation, graduates have a variety of career paths to follow.
Learn more about Northwest Missouri State University’s online B.S. in Political Science – Public Administration program.
