What kind of jobs can I get as a political science major?

Question

I would like to study law but in the event that doesn't work out what can I do with that degree?

Answer 1

I received my undergraduate education at the University of Maryland, majoring in political science; followed that up with a Masters in political science at Virginia Tech. (In the process of applying to PhD programs.)

When it comes to political science, there really isn't a wide array of potential jobs out there. The foremost use of a graduate degree in political science is academia, but you must have the doctorate if you are aiming to get very far.

If you are talking about just an undergraduate or Masters degree, there are a lot of financial firms that can use you as an economic analyst, but you must combine your political science degree with a good background in economics and/or international finance.

I've already been accepted into a Masters program in economics at the London School of Economics, so if I do not get accepted into the doctoral programs I will be heading in this venue. (My wife is already a financial analyst working for Fidelity Investments.)

Lastly, of course, there is the route of state and federal government agencies.

Hope some of this information proves helpful.

Answer 2

If you don't go to law school, you will have to think of a creative solution to finding work with your Poly Sci degree.

Some ideas:

Take a Master's and a PhD and become a Poly Sci professor.

Journalism.

Writing.

Public Relations.

Take an MBA and become a corporate executive.

Bartending.

Waitering.

Working in a book store.

Collecting scrap metal.

Returning aluminum cans.