Political Science

Resources, Strengths, Career Paths, Skills

The politics of the 21st century are far more dynamic than at any other point in history. No longer do societies interact simply through governmental organizations; corporations, NGOs, non-profit charities and religious organizations have all entered the political game. A Political Science major has an in-depth understanding of today’s political climate as well as an understanding of the tools and techniques used in formulating policy. Students of Political Science also possess superior communication ability, which is indispensible in today’s rocky market, regardless of career or industry.

Transferable Skills: Students of Political Science develop a diverse and widely used list of skills during the course of their undergraduate careers. In addition to excellent writing ability, Political Science majors will graduate with refined analytical and research skills as well as a unique perspective towards today’s issues. A Political Science major possesses:

  • Analytical and critical-thinking abilities
  • Research experience
  • Extensive technical and analytical writing experience
  • Rhetorical skill
  • Didactic skill
  • Oratory skill
  • Knowledge of foreign cultures
  • Conflict resolution skill

Career Paths: The major in Political Science provides students with an optimal platform for entering a wide variety of fields and industries. Companies favor applicants who are acutely aware of the world around them. Here are some fields a Political Science major may pursue:

  • Government and public policy
  • International relations and business
  • Lobbying and advocacy
  • Public administration
  • Management
  • Law
  • Law enforcement
  • Teaching (elementary, secondary, and higher education)
  • Public relations
  • Advertising and marketing
  • Journalism, publishing, and technical writing

Resources & Professional Associations of Interest: There are numerous academic and professional organizations for students interested in connecting with people working in fields related to Political Science. Here is a small list to help get you started:

  • International Association for Political Science Students
  • International Society of Political Psychology
  • National Policy Association
  • American Political Science Association
  • Northeastern Political Science Association
  • New York State Political Science Association
  • The National Conference of Black Political Scientists
  • International Studies Association
  • Chronicle of Higher Education
  • Inside Higher Education
  • Law School Admission Council

Consider joining on-campus clubs related to political science and your specific field of interest. On-campus student organizations are a great way to meet people with similar interests who may be able to connect you with professionals in your field. Visit the Stony Brook University Student Activities website for more information.

Employers: The following companies and institutions have hired/accepted alumni of the Stony Brook Political Science program:

  • Hunter College
  • NY Life Insurance Co.
  • Stony Brook University
  • NYC Public Advocate's Office
  • Symbol Technologies

Sample Job Titles: The following are some sample job titles that would be appropriate for a student who has majored in Political Science. This is in no way a complete list. If you're surprised at some of these titles, you shouldn't forget that a student who majors in Political Science gains skills that can be used in almost any industry!

  • Politician
  • Paralegal
  • Attorney
  • Judge
  • Public Advocate
  • Regulatory Associate
  • Lobbyist
  • Professor
  • English as a Second Language Teacher
  • Editor
  • Media Planner
  • Journalist
  • Technical Writer
  • Speech Writer
  • Public Relations Specialist
  • Human Resources Specialist
  • Campaign Fundraiser
  • Curator
Note: Some of these job titles may require an advanced degree.

Famous Political Science Majors:
Alec Baldwin -- Actor
Steve Case – CEO of AOL
Dick Cheney – Former Vice-President of the United States
Mia Hamm -- US Women’s Soccer Star
Barack Obama – President of the United States
Jane Pauley - Television News Anchor

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Additional Information: For more information about Stony Brook’s Political Science program, visit the department’s website: http://www.stonybrook.edu/polsci/