How the Political Science Major Prepares You for the Job Market
Political science is a broad look at how power is distributed and used amongst governing bodies. Political science majors analyze the connections between politics in theory and politics in real life, such as studying the ways a political system is supposed to work and how it is actually enforced. Many political science majors participate in group exercises that hone political knowledge and skills, as well as participate in student government committees and join both off and on-campus political associations. Political science majors take courses in Constitutional law, the legislative process, public administration, and other topics related to understanding government, law, and social movements. Political science majors bring great political knowledge and leadership skills to the job market, making them valuable candidates for positions in foreign services, business consultation for multinational companies, and other occupations that deal regularly with the law or legal procedures in and out of the country.
Best Career Paths for Political Science Majors
Many career options are open to political science majors that may initially seem completely unrelated to politics. The best career paths for political science majors are:
- Paralegal. Paralegals assist lawyers in preparing cases, organizing paperwork and client details, and researching information about the lawyerís active cases. They are continually taking on more responsibilities, though paralegals are not allowed to carry out any actual legal actions, such as providing legal advice. They may work with clients in preparing contracts, tax returns, trust funds, and other smaller tasks that lawyers may not have time to handle. Paralegals make an average salary of $46,120 annually, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
- Police Work. Uniformed police officers are responsible for enforcing the law in the local areas in which they work. They often patrol certain neighborhoods and streets to keep would-be criminals at bay, making the streets safer. Police officers have the duty of protecting residents as well as visitors to the area, and also must protect the property in the area from damage or vandalism. Some police officers work in specialty fields, such as those who deal primarily with juveniles and those who deal primarily with traffic law violations. Police officers make an average salary of $51,410 annually, according to the Bureau.
How to Market Your Political Science Degree
Political science majors have a valuable degree. The political science degree has developed their skills in public speaking, debate, research, constructive thought, and many other traits that are valuable characteristics of successful leaders and thinkers. In order to market your political science degree to potential employers, be sure to mention all of the skills your degree has given you. Participate in internships and groups that pertain to politics in order to prove that you are passionate and driven in the political science field. Other attributes unrelated to political science directly should be brought up as well, such as the quick and thorough research skills you developed from having to study complex cases as well as the writing skills you learned from class writing assignments and debates.
