School Of Arts, Letters, and Social Sciences

Systematic Study Of Government, Politics And Public Policy

Program Overview

About Our Program

Political science is one of a number of liberal arts majors that prepare students for a broad range of career opportunities. Political science majors choose one of three tracks or concentrations: general political science, pre-law, or public administration. Each concentration provides a combination of knowledge and skills especially appropriate for those with particular career goals. However, choosing one concentration over the others does not limit you to a particular career path — each of the tracks provides a solid grounding in political science and a broad liberal arts background.

Degree Details

General education requirements and sufficient elective credits must be completed so that at least 124 semester credits have been earned.

BS / BA Political Science

  • General Pre-Law
  • Public Administration
Graduate School Placement

LSSU has a great reputation for placing Political Science students in graduate and professional schools, such as:

BS / BA Political Science

  • Georgetown University
  • Michigan State University
  • University of Illinois
see program catalog

Career Paths

With the skills they acquire in writing, speaking, analysis, critical thinking and leadership, political science majors are able to pursue a wide variety of career options (some of which require additional education). A sample of typical occupations includes:

NOTE: Graduate degrees are required for some positions; thus, a law degree is required for work as an attorney and a Ph.D. is required for appointment to permanent teaching and research positions in colleges and universities.

  • Attorney — Represents clients in private practice, in small or large law firms; represents corporations, labor unions, trade associations or governments as a salaried employee; serves as a prosecutor or public defender; serves as a judge. Requires the completion of a law degree following college.
  • Government Employee — Works for government agencies at the federal, state or provincial, or local level, or for international organizations, such as the United Nations.
  • Political Professional — Works as a campaign manager; staff assistant to legislators; elected office holder; or as a political liaison for professional, trade, business or other interest groups.
  • Journalist — Serves as reporter, editorial writer, editor or newscaster for newspapers, news magazines, or on radio or television.
  • Teacher — Teaches government and politics at the high school or college level.
  • Business Executive — Works in management, human resources, public relations or other areas in business.
  • Other Opportunities — Include preparation for graduate or professional schools in other fields such as business.