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Political Science
The political science minor is an excellent means of further developing nearly any liberal arts major, particularly one of the Behavioral Sciences or History. Through the study of the internal and external factors that influence foreign and domestic political structure and policy, students in this discipline are able to develop a more comprehensive view of the world and its ever-changing political environment.
Coursework in this field may include American foreign policy, constitutional law, Presidency, civil liberties, religion and politics, international economics, and international policy and governments.
Strong research skills, the ability to communicate effectively, organization and creativity are all capabilities that are essential in this field. Interpersonal skills are also highly valuable because professionals employed within this field must work with a variety of different people on highly sensitive issues at times. They must exhibit tact, while continuing to forcefully defend their research or perspective.
Many in this field continue their education with graduate or law school; however employment opportunities are available in a range of industries, including government.
OCCUPATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES
Ambassador
Campaign manager
College or University professor
Congressional aide
Foreign service officer
Government official (federal, state, regional or local)
Lawyer
Lobbyist
Political aide
Political analyst
Politician
Press secretary
Public relations representative
*These positions may require additional education or training.
POTENTIAL EMPLOYERS
Educational institutions
Environmental agencies
Government (federal, state, regional or local)
Lobbying agencies
Nonprofit organizations
Politicians
Social service agencies
SOURCES FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Books (* denotes books available in the Career Center Library)
- *Encyclopedia of Careers and Vocational Guidance, Chicago, IL: Ferguson Publishing Co., 2000.
- *Fogg, Neeta, et.al. The College Majors Handbook, Indianapolis, IN: JIST Works, Inc., 2004.
- *Heizmann, Sam. The Complete Guide to Environmental Careers in the 21st Century, Washington, DC: Island
Press, 1999.
- Paradis, Adrian A. Careers for Caring People and Other Sensitive Types, Lincolnwood, IL: VGM Career Books,
2003.
- Pitz, Mary E. Careers in Government, Lincolnwood, IL: VGM Professional Careers Series, 1999.
Professional Associations
- American Historical Association, 400 A Street, SE Washington, DC 20003-3889, http://www.historian.org.
- American League of Lobbyists, P.O. Box 30005, Alexandria, VA 22310, http://alldc.org.
- American Political Science Association, 1527 New Hampshire Ave, NW Washington, DC 20036-1206, http://www.apsanet.org.
- National Association of Schools of Public Affairs and Administration, 1029 Vermont Avenue, NW, Suite 1100, Washington, DC 20005, http://www.naspaa.org.
Web sites
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