12 Careers for Political Science Majors

Political science majors are popular for a reason: they're interesting, they're current, and they open a lot of career opportunities for graduates. Fortunately, political science majors can apply their academic and, often, their political training in a wide range of jobs.

12 Careers for Political Science Majors

1. Work on a political campaign. You majored in political science for a reason. Put your academic interests to the test by working on a political campaign for a candidate you'd love to see—and help—make a difference.

2. Work for the federal government. The federal government works in a variety of fields with people of all backgrounds. This offers many opportunities to develop subject matter expertise. Find one branch that interests you the most and see if they're hiring.

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3. Work for the state government. Federal government too big? Give back to your home state, or a new one, by working for the state government. Also, because of federalism, there are certain areas in which states have more control, so some areas of expertise may be a better fit at the state level.

4. Work for the local government. You may want to start off a little smaller and closer to home in your political career. Consider working for the local government, it's a great place to get your foot in the door. City and county governments are a good place to start.

5. Work in advocacy for a nonprofit. Nonprofits are often busy working toward their missions—helping kids, fixing the environment, etc.—but they need a lot of help behind the scenes. That includes getting political support for their cause and that's where your degree can help.

6. Work at a politically based website. If you like to write, engage in online discussion, and help create a virtual community, consider working for a politically based website. You could also write for the political section of a website that is broader than politics.

7. Work in government relations in the for-profit sector. Working for a private (or even public) company's government relations department will allow you to blend your interests in politics with the dynamics of working for a specific company.

8. Work in government relations in the nonprofit sector. Interested in government relations but also in helping promote a cause? Many nonprofits, especially larger, national ones, need staff to help with government relations and advocacy.

9. Work for a school. You may not think of working at a school as political in nature, but many institutions—including colleges and universities, as well as K-12 schools—need help with your special skill set. This includes coordinating government relations, advocating for funding, managing regulations, and a whole host of other, interesting responsibilities.

10. Work at a magazine. Many magazines admittedly (or very clearly) have a political tilt. Find one you like and see if they're hiring.

11. Work for a political party. Consider, for example, checking into whether the Republican or Democratic Party is hiring for its local, state, or national offices. You might surprise yourself with what you end up getting to do!

12. Teach. Teaching is a great opportunity for the politically minded. You can help inspire a passion for political science and government in your students while also having summers off for your own political work.