Choose a Career in Political Science to Make a Difference

September 3rd, 2020 Career Advice

Ever have that feeling that the world is spinning out of control, and you’re helpless to do anything about it? With a career in political science, you can stop the global spin and make a tangible difference in your community. In the political science field, you will have an influence on the issues and politics you care about as well as a platform from which you can help others.

Imagine being able to have a role in politics or law where you can use your voice to make the changes needed in fields like government, business, law, services, and community or non-profit organisations. With knowledge of your interests, skills, andlearning style, you can enter the field of political science with the confidence and leadership ability that can truly change the world, whether locally or internationally. Does a career in political science appeal to you? Here’s what you need to know about the political science field and how it can work for you.

What makes someone good at political science?

Political science focuses on the study and implementation of government and politics at all levels of society. To succeed in a political science career, you need some interests and skills to operate effectively and efficiently within your field. Here are some qualities that make someone good at political science:

• You want to deepen your knowledge and understanding of your field. Whether your focus is the debate on Australia’s “ag-gag” law or a global issue such as the rise in populism, a desire to comprehend and continually learn more about issues is necessary for a successful career in political science.
• You have a passion for problem-solving, especially about the law. If you are atelevision crime-show enthusiast or you just enjoy solving a complex or thorny legal problem, passion for your area of focus is a must. Advocacy is often a significant part of careers in political science; thus, a genuine desire to make a difference in a chosen sector is a critical factor for success.
• You are an analytical thinker. You like to have all the data in front of you to make careful, logical decisions rather than spontaneous ones. In your particular area of political science, you enjoy extensive research and deep-diving into all the historical aspects of the issue at hand as well as the current trends and challenges. An ability to formulate and defend an argument using rhetorical strategies is highly valued in this area as well.
• You have strong oral and written communication skills. An ability to clearly communicate your position through speech and writing is critical to helping your organisation or team achieve their goals. Nebulous or obtuse language can make creating legislation for a city or obtaining fundraising for a non-profit difficult if not impossible.

The relationship between political science and law

The relationship between law and political science is one that is deeply intertwined. As an essential tool of government action, the law is how governmental administrations influence societies. Through the medium of law, government is created, structured, and regulated. Therefore, because law shapes politics, it has an essential role in how politics is conducted.

What jobs should you pursue with a political science degree?

There are avariety of jobs you can pursue with a political science degree. Some of these career fields include:

• Policy analyst
• Diplomat or foreign service officer
• Political consultant
• Journalism
• Non-profit organisation
• International affairs
• Budget analyst
• Advocacy
• Political scientist
• Lobbyist
• Business executive
• University professor
• Public pollster or public opinion researcher
• Communications or public relations
• Government official
• Legislative assistant
• Lawyer

Each of these particular career fields offers a wealth of opportunity to put your political science degree to good use. Many of these areas include opportunities both in the private and public sectors.

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Is a political career in your future?

Political science is, at its core, the study of not only how government works but also its past, present, and future. While becoming a politician is one potential career path for a political science graduate, other political arenas apply as well. For example, as a lobbyist, you are part of an organisation that argues and attempts to influence legislators. As a legislative assistant, you work for a legislator, providing counsel and offering recommendations on drafting or pending legislation based on research. If being a part of the political action sounds exciting, then a political career may be the direction you wish to go.

Political science isn’t easy, but it’s rewarding.

If you want a challenging career that keeps you on your toes and provides dividends, consider a career in political science. In this realm, you can set aside feelings of hopelessness and frustration with the state of the world and take action to be a part of real, lasting change. A career in political science isn’t an easy path to choose; however, the results are rewarding when you know your ideas, talents, skills, and passions made a difference for others.

Does a political science career sound like the challenge you’re looking for? Let ICI help you take your first steps on this important path.Enrol in our Political Science courses and earn your diploma in as little as 24 weeks. Start to make a change in the world, and enrol today.

by Gladys Mae

Gladys Mae serves as the General Manager and Head of Student Services at the International Career Institute. Gladys holds a degree in Mass Communication - Broadcast Media from the University of San Jose-Recoletos. She joined ICI in 2010 and has over the past 12 years been instrumental in providing leadership and guidance to staff and students alike. Prior to joining ICI Gladys led a multifaceted career with key roles in the banking and business process outsourcing industries.