UMass Boston

Careers

A degree in political science can lead to exciting careers in federal, state and local governments; law; business; international organizations; nonprofit associations and organizations; campaign management and polling; journalism; pre-collegiate education; electoral politics; research and university and college teaching. Political science majors gain analytical skills, administrative competence and communication abilities that are valued in a wide spectrum of potential career areas.

What Resources Are Available at the Department?

Political science majors should consult their faculty advisors about career options. Your advisor can help you evaluate your choices in a variety of fields, from graduate study, to government/civil service, to the business world. Please ask for our APSA Career Booklet.

In addition, each Spring the department holds an alumni career information session, when UMass Boston graduates come to campus to give advice to current students on thinking through their career possibilities and on maximizing their chances for admission to law school or graduate school or for entering the job market immediately following graduation from the university.

Why is a political science major valuable?

Political science majors gain a good background in knowledge of politics and current affairs, as well as critical, logical, and analytical skills that help them evaluate constraints and opportunities in many situations.

Political science is not a static discipline; political circumstances are often in flux around the world. Political science majors are well-prepared to write and communicate well, while understanding the pressures of change.

What are potential careers for political science majors?

For the reasons noted above, a degree in political science is valued in many fields. It can lead to exciting careers in government, law, policymaking, research, consulting, business, nonprofit administration, academia, and more.