Why study political science? Because degrees in political science open doors to a
host of exciting and challenging careers. Our classes teach students useful analytic
skills, giving students a deeper of understanding of important political issues and
policies. UH Political Science graduates find countless employment opportunities
in the private-sector — including in journalism, law, business, campaigns, and nonprofits
— as well as positions at every level of government. They also teach at the high
school and college level, and work as researchers for think tanks and public opinion
firms.
We encourage you to explore this page and our alumni profiles to learn more about
areas in which UH Political Science alumni have found professional success and are
making a difference in their communities.
Federal Government
Want to serve your country?
Almost all agencies and branches in the United States government employ political
science majors in a variety of capacities. The majority of federal jobs are located
outside Washington D.C.--throughout the nation and world. Positions abound within
the judicial, legislative, and executive branches of government. Students interested
in legislative work may find employment opportunities working for elected representatives
in Washington, or as Congressional committee staff. For those with an eye for the
executive branch, there are many possibilities for service within federal agencies,
including the EPA, DHHS, Homeland Security, and working for the U.S. State Department.
State & Local Government
Want to make a difference to your local community?
While the federal government has a significant effect on policy and politics, citizens
are more likely to come into consistent contact with state and local governments.
Students with degrees in political science often find employment within state and
local government, working on politics and policies generally, or in positions with
a more specific policy focus. Important issues tackled at these levels of government
include education policy, environmental regulation, policy implementation, public
pension provision, transportation policy, and child welfare. Notable UH Political
Science alumni currently work as elected state representatives and city councilors,
policy planners, city managers, and legislative staffers, as well as other related
careers.
Non-Profit & Citizen Action Groups
Want to change the world?
Many not-for-profit organizations try to influence government policies and practices
by providing information for elected officials about policy impacts and alternatives,
and by trying to influence public opinion. Many of these organizations rely heavily
on volunteers, but they also need employees who understand political processes and
policies, and who know how to influence them both. Salaries at not-for-profits tend
to be lower than salaries in the private sector, but jobs at these types of organizations
can offer great professional satisfaction.
Law
Are you passionate about justice?
Many political science majors obtain law degrees and pursue legal careers. They find
employment in a wide range of positions, working in the public sector as district
attorneys, judges and public defenders, or in the private sector in large and small
law firms, or as corporate lawyers.
Business
Want to apply your analytic skills in the private sector?
A large number of political science undergraduates have found successful and challenging
employment in the business sector. When these organizations interact with government
through contracts or regulations, they often need employees or consultants who understand
the complexities and nuances of economic and regulatory policies, as well as public
administration and the policymaking process. Prospective employees can expect to work
in a variety settings¾from small, family-owned operations to large, international
corporations.
International Careers
Want to see the world?
Students who enjoy traveling or speaking other languages are well suited for positions
in international relations. Many social and economic problems cross borders, and can
only be solved by cross-national cooperation. As a result, there are growing international
employment opportunities for persons trained in political science because they can
best grapple with complex, multi-national issues. Alumni working in this area have
found jobs in the U.S. State Department, the Peace Corps, US AID, and the World Bank,
along with a variety of international non-governmental organizations (INGOs).
Campaigns
How about a fast-paced career in politics, with a potentially huge payoff?
In order to win an election, candidates need a team of energetic, creative, and intelligent
campaign staff, which is where students with degrees in political science come in!
Campaign workers can expect to gain experience in a variety of fields, including fundraising,
speech writing, polling, media relations, campaign strategy, and communications and
press relations, to mention a few. While these positions are not always well compensated
during the campaign, they often lead to high-level positions in government and non-profits
due to campaign management’s broad skill set.
Opinion Polling & Market Research
Want to know what makes people tick?
Students with quantitative skills and an interest in public opinion may be interested
in opportunities to work in the area of market research. Polling firms hire graduates
to design and administer surveys, format polls, and analyze data. There are also thousands
of marketing research firms and media companies that value opinion polling, in which
methodological and analytical skills may be put to good use. Students interested
in pursuing careers in this area may need to get advanced training in data analysis
and survey design.
Journalism
Want to write hard-hitting journalism?
Interviewing anyone, from public officials to reality stars, requires a broad base
of knowledge and quick critical thinking. Seasoned journalists state that employers
value a liberal arts education, specifically a political science degree, because it
prepares journalists to cover and connect a variety of topics¾public affairs, politics,
political institutions, and more.
Education
Want to teach the next generation?
If you like to command a classroom or enjoy teaching others, consider teaching government
or history in secondary school. Because most high schools require students to take
courses in these areas, there are many employment opportunities in education for graduates
with a degree in political science. (For many public school jobs, students will also
need a teaching degree or other certification.) UH alumni who find positions as teachers
enjoy the challenges and rewards of doing what they love every day.
Graduate School
Want to learn more?
For some, a bachelor’s degree in political science isn’t enough. A graduate education
in political science can be extremely rewarding for those who are interested. Earning
a master’s or PhD typically entails a full course load and ultimately a dissertation,
along with paid teaching and research assignments. Not only can a graduate education
slake your intellectual thirst, but it can also be lucrative. Recent UH political
science majors have received good fellowships to pursue masters and doctoral degrees
at prestigious university around the country. Students with a political science PhD
from UH are teaching at colleges and universities across Texas and the U.S., as well
as around the world. If you are considering applying for graduate schools, start
talking with your political science professors about this as early as possible¾at
least by your junior year¾so that they can alert you to opportunities in this area.