Political Science

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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

Places to Seek Employment

View specific employers by state.

Employment Strategies

1. Identify areas of interest in politics, government, activism, etc. so you can focus your academics and experiences toward these fields.
2. Become familiar with the required professional qualifications associated with careers that interest you (i.e., advanced degrees, licensure and/or certifications).
3. Gain direct experience within the areas that interest you most through research projects, independent study, internships, part-time jobs, student organization involvement, or volunteering.
4. Register for HireJayhawks.com and subscribe to the Internship Newsletter to receive automated weekly emails with specific internship information.
5. 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.
6. Earn a minor or take additional coursework outside your major when relevant.
7. Complete an independent study to gain advanced research skills.
8. Maintain a strong GPA if you are considering pursuing graduate or professional school.
9. 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.
10. 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