Political Science Advantages
Why Political Science?
It is important for all citizens in a democracy to learn how their political system operates. The political system affects all people in direct and profound ways. Taxes are raised. Wars are declared. The Social Security system is revised. A new highway is built through the middle of your neighborhood. Your child's school is closed. All educated people should know something of the nature of government and politics and should prepare themselves for the responsibilities of citizenship.
Political Scientists study governments, their practices, and philosophies. They study how power is acquired and exercised. They study how authoritative policy decisions are made concerning who gets what in society. In short, they study government, elections, policy, and law.
Can I get a job if I study political science?
In a word -- Yes! Training in political science is very useful for those planning to pursue careers in law, teaching, journalism, or government service. The government itself is a large employer. There are presently about 2.5 million positions with the federal government and almost 16 million positions with state and local governments. Job opportunities also exist with interest groups, urban planning agencies, the military, colleges and universities, and businesses.
What will I learn?
The study of political science helps students develop reasoning and analytical skills. It helps develop oral and written communication skills. You will learn about research design. You will learn to use emerging technologies to collect and analyze data. You will learn how to use software to analyze, interpret, and present statistical information. You will learn how statistics and polls are sometimes used to mislead. You will learn how to evaluate competing arguments, to probe for logical flaws, to take positions, and to defend them. You will develop skills that will be extremely useful regardless of your ultimate career choice. It has been said that political science does not prepare students for a single career in the same way that some other majors do; it prepares them for many. In an age when people can be expected to change jobs and even careers many times over the course of a working lifetime, the versatility of our program is one of its major strengths.