Benefits of a Political Science Degree

Political science originates from Greek and Roman discussions on governance and the creation of a just and harmonious social order. The contemporary field of political science builds on these ideas by examining the theories that shape our perspectives on government and how political leaders exercise authority on local, national, and international levels. Political scientists explore concepts such as ideology and power to explain the decision-making processes, rules, and laws that characterize the relationships between political institutions and their citizens.

A background in political science offers many advantages. As part of a well-rounded education that fosters skills in critical thinking, analytical reading, research, analysis and communication, political science prepares students well to work in many fields.

Customize Your Political Science Degree With Our 4+1 Program

In addition to our Bachelor of Science major, we also offer a Political Science 4+1 program that enables you to earn your undergraduate degree and a Master’s in Public Administration in five years. Learn more about our MPA program.

4+1 Program: MPA
  

Careers With a Degree in Political Science

A bachelor’s degree in political science can open the door to a variety of career opportunities, including:

• Political scientist
• Policy analyst or researcher
• Political consultant
• Legislative director
• Agency administrator
• Think tank fellow
• Sociologist
• Economist
• Public relations specialist
• Journalist
• Market researcher

Additional studies at the graduate level can open up even more pathways to senior positions—and higher salaries.

Political Science Bachelor’s Degree Job Outlook

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment of political scientists will grow 6% between 2021 and 2031, about as fast as the average for all occupations. Yet political science degree holders enjoy diverse opportunities to work in fields well beyond politics. Other careers political science graduates can pursue include lawyer (projected 10% job growth), paralegal and legal assistant (14% job growth), post-secondary educator (12% job growth) and public relations specialist (8% job growth).

Why Choose Hilbert College for Your Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science?

At Hilbert, we embrace our students as family and do everything we can to propel them to success academically and socially. As a student in our political science degree program, you will enjoy:

• Expert faculty with extensive experience
• Small class sizes that guarantee you face time with your professors
• The opportunity to participate in an internship related to political advocacy Academic skills workshops, one-on-one tutoring, learning strategies instruction and academic counseling to help you perform at your best
• A dedicated Office of Career Development providing resources, knowledge and strategies to help you achieve your career potential
• More than 30 student organizations, clubs and honor societies, plus intramural and club sports
• Full immersion in a culture of giving back to the community through service learning

Political Science Degree Curriculum

Frequently Asked Questions

What can you do with a bachelor’s degree in political science?

Graduates of Hilbert’s Bachelor of Science in Political Science program may pursue any of a variety of rewarding careers, each offering competitive salaries and growth potential. Jobs available to political science degree-holders include political consultant, policy analyst or researcher, sociologist, economist, journalist and market researcher.

What is the average salary for bachelor’s degree in political science graduates?

The median annual salary for professionals holding a Bachelor of Science in Political Science degree from a U.S. higher education institution was about $70,000 as of December 2022, according to Payscale.

How long is the Bachelor of Science in Political Science program?

Most students complete our political science degree in four years or less. Full-time students with eligible transfer credits may be able to complete the program sooner. In addition, Hilbert offers the innovative combined bachelor’s/master’s program, a “4+1” plan that lets students earn a bachelor’s degree in political science and a Master’s in Public Administration in five years.

What are the benefits of earning a Bachelor of Science in Political Science degree?

Students in our political science degree program benefit from an interdisciplinary curriculum in which they can gain key skills in high demand among employers. Graduates are prepared for a wide variety of academic and professional paths, including graduate studies in political science or related social science fields and opportunities to pursue careers in political leadership and activism; law; education; national security; intelligence; communications; foreign service and more.

Apply to the Bachelor of Science in Political Science Program at Hilbert College