Political Science
The College of Liberal Arts & Sciences offers a BA and BGS, as well as a MA and a PhD in Political Science. The Political Science program's course offerings are grouped according to subfields which represent the discipline: American Politics, Comparative Politics, International Relations, Public Policy, and Political Theory.
Political Science Department website
Sample of Related Skills
- Demonstrate analytical skills necessary to think critically about political life
- Show literacy in the discipline of political science
- Apply concepts and theories in the subfields of political science
- Apply political knowledge to work in internships and community service learning projects
- Develop academic proficiency in the subfields of American government and politics, comparative government, international relations, public administration, political theory, and public law
- Demonstrate skills in conducting as well as presenting research in political science
Popular Career Paths
Non-Profit Management: Can include administrative responsibilities, fundraising, event planning, and more.
Public Policy: Includes advocating, lobbying, and influencing to change policies.
Public Service: Includes jobs within local, state, and federal government.
Law: Involves advocating in court, researching and studying laws and judicial decisions, and advising clients and/or organizations.
Explore More Career Paths
- MyMajors.com-Political Science - information on courses, careers, and salary information for political science majors
Jobs to Consider
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Congressional Office/Committee Staffer Coordinator of Federal or State Aid |
Plans and Review Officer, USIA
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Places to Seek Employment
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Campaign Offices Chambers of Commerce Charities City Governments County Governments Educational Institutions Environmental Agencies Federal Government Agencies |
Foundations Health Departments Historical Sites Interest Groups Law Firms Museums National Parks Non-Profit Organizations |
Professional Associations Regional Planning Agencies State Governments Think Tanks U.S. Consulates U.S. Diplomatic Missions U.S. Embassies
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View specific employers by state.
Employment Strategies
- Identify areas of interest in politics, government, activism, etc. so you can focus your academics and experiences toward these fields.
- Become familiar with the required professional qualifications associated with careers that interest you (i.e., advanced degrees, licensure and/or certifications).
- Gain direct experience within the areas that interest you most through research projects, independent study, internships, part-time jobs, student organization involvement, or volunteering.
- Register for HireJayhawks.com and subscribe to the Internship Newsletter to receive automated weekly emails with specific internship information.
- Consider joining a professional organization related to your area of interest in political science, and, if possible, attend local and/or regional conferences to make connections with professionals working in your field.
- Earn a minor or take additional coursework outside your major when relevant.
- Complete an independent study to gain advanced research skills.
- Maintain a strong GPA if you are considering pursuing graduate or professional school.
- Consider getting involved with a student organization at KU related to your area of interest, such as: College Republicans-KU, Dole Institute of Politics-Student Advisory Board, KU Model United Nations, Natural History Museum Student Board, Student Legislative Awareness Board, Student Senate, Students for Global Awareness, and Young Democrats of KU.
- Develop your resume and tailor it to your area(s) of interest: sample resume (pdf).
Job and Internship Search Resources
- American Association for Public Opinion Research - list of organizations and job openings for public opinion and survey research professionals
- American Political Science Association - list of job titles, as well as job and internship resources for those interested in political science
- Government & Non-Profit Resources - more from career.ku.edu
- Internship Resources posted by KU's Political Science Department - list of internships and credit options for opportunities in Topeka; Washington, D.C.; and other locations
- Internships-USA - internship listings in congress, law & policy, and international affairs
- National Association of Schools of Public Affairs and Administration: Internships - helpful hints and several online resources for finding an internship in public service
- National Conference of State Legislatures Job Clearinghouse - listing of jobs in state legislatures and public policy
- National Governor's Association - up-to-date articles and news; job, internship, and fellowship listings; and best practices within state government
- Public Service Careers - career advice, resources, and job and internship listings for careers in public service
- Student Jobs - comprehensive listing of entry level jobs and internships in the U.S. Government geared toward students and recent graduates
- Three Days of the Intern - tips for finding an internship in public affairs, as well as links to specific internship postings
- USA Jobs - comprehensive site for jobs and employment in the government; set up email alerts to receive weekly updates that meet your search criteria; set up email alerts to receive weekly updates that meet your search criteria
- U.S. Department of State's List of U.S. Embassies, Consulates, and Diplomatic Missions - list of organizations with vacancies
The quick link for this page is career.ku.edu/politicalscience.
Go back to Careers & KU Majors homepage.
