Find Your Perfect Program:
Political Science Majors Can Find Many Jobs After Graduation
By Catherine Groux
Posted September 07, 2011 05:32 AM
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, political scientists are responsible for conducting research and evaluating topics such as public opinion, ideology, public policy and relations between the U.S. and foreign nations. Frequently, entry-level positions in this field are available for bachelor's degree holders. However, a majority of jobs in this industry require a master's degree in a subject like political science.
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Students who earn a degree in political science may see many job options after graduation. institutions across the country offer this graduate degree track to their students. For example, Virginia Tech has an online master's degree program in political science, according to its website. During this course of study, students will analyze topics such as global security, public ecology, contemporary political theory and research methods.
Other schools that offer master's degree programs in political science include the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, American University, Villanova University and Fairleigh Dickinson University, according to their websites.
Regardless of where they study, students who earn a graduate degree in political science are expected to perfect certain skills. The BLS reports that professional political scientists must possess excellent writing, communication, mathematics and research skills. These individuals must also be curious and creative when it comes to gathering and analyzing data.
Individuals who complete a master's degree in political science and hold these valuable skills can find many job opportunities after graduation. The BLS reports that jobs for political scientists are expected to grow much faster than average in the next seven years. This expected increase is due to an expanding interest in foreign affairs, politics and public policy across the nation.
A recent report published in Cambridge Journals further indicates the stability of the job market for political scientists. According to a survey found in the report, in 2010-2011 there was an 11% increase in the number of job listings on the e-Jobs website for these professionals compared to a year earlier. Even during 2009-2010, when many individuals struggled to find employment, there were more open positions on the website for political scientists than job applicants.
Additionally, Jennifer Segal Diascro, director of institutional programs for the American Political Science Association, recently told The Chronicle of Higher Education that many graduate students found jobs after graduation. Approximately half of these individuals who looked for jobs last year found permanent academic jobs, while about 24% accepted temporary positions.
