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Home » Top Political Science Career Options: What After Degree in Political Science?

Top Political Science Career Options: What After Degree in Political Science?

Political Science Career Options

Political Science is an important field that deals with the governmental work process, policy creation and operation. It looks at the actions of politicians, the function of institutions, and how laws impact society. This knowledge helps people make informed choices and participate in governance. In India, where democracy is essential, one must be aware about the popular political science career options.

As one of the most popular courses in India, Political Science provides students with valuable analytical skills and insights into local and global politics. With a variety of courses available—from short certificate programs to advanced doctoral studies—students can customize their education to fit their career goals. Graduates often find work in journalism, law, policy analysis, and civil services, making important contributions to governance and public policy.

What is Political Science?

Political Science studies how governments operate, how policies are made, and how political processes work. It examines the behavior of politicians, the role of institutions, and the impact of laws on society. 

By understanding these elements, Political Science helps us make informed decisions and participate effectively in governance. It covers topics like democracy, power, and justice, aiming to improve societal well-being.

Political Science Courses in India

Political Science is among the most-chosen courses in India. It helps students with the analytical skills and knowledge about political system, both domestic and international. There are several political science career options after these courses. Here are the following types of courses in political science:

  1. Certificate Courses: Short-term programs, lasting a few months, designed to provide foundational knowledge or specialized skills in specific areas of political science.
  2. Diploma Courses: These courses usually are of 1 to 2 years and offer more in-depth study compared to certificate courses. They are ideal for those looking to gain practical knowledge and skills.
  3. Undergraduate Courses: A 3-year degree program that covers various aspects of political theory, comparative politics, international relations, and public administration.
  4. Postgraduate Courses: A 2-year advanced degree focusing on specialized areas such as political theory, international politics, and policy analysis.
  5. Doctoral Programs: These are research-intensive programs that can take 3 to 5 years to complete, aimed at those interested in academic or high-level research careers.

One of such undergraduate courses is BA in Political Science. Read more here!

List of the Top Political Science Career Options

Career options are one of the important parameters in assessing the course/career paths. The wider the career options list, the more they are in demand. This section will take you through the top political science career options. Students can try their luck in the following political science career options:

  1. Journalism 
  2. Law
  3. Corporate Communications
  4. Political Scientists
  5. Policy Analysis
  6. Management Analysis
  7. Research Analyst
  8. Civil Services
  9. Legislative Assistant
  10. Other Government Jobs

These were some of the prominent career options in political science domain. We will now be moving towards these career opportunities in detail.

Journalism

Political Science graduates often pursue careers in journalism. In this way they can enhance understanding of political systems and strong communication skills. They cover political events, analyze policies, and report on governmental affairs.

  • Popular Jobs: Political Reporter, News Analyst, Editor, etc.
  • Average Salary: INR 4 to 8 LPA

Pursuing Journalism Courses can be a good career option in political science. You will get to share your political knowledge and awareness with people.

Law

Political Science graduates often pursue careers in law, using their knowledge of political systems and analytical skills. They work in various legal roles, advocating for clients and interpreting laws. 

  • Popular Jobs: Lawyer, Paralegal, Legal Analyst, etc.
  • Average Salary: INR 3 to 10 LPA

Are you interested in building a Career in Law? Check the required details here!

Corporate Communications

Pursuing a future in corporate communications can be among the top political science career options for students. They use their understanding of political systems and strong communication skills to manage a company’s public image and internal communications.

  • Popular Jobs: Communication Specialist, PR Officer, Corporate Affairs Manager, etc.
  • Average Salary: INR 7 to 12 LPA

A Career in Public Relations can be a good option for you if you are good at handling people. 

Political Scientists

Political scientists study political systems, policies, and trends to understand their development and impact. They often work in government, research organizations, and academic institutions.

  • Popular Jobs: Policy Analyst, Legislative Assistant, Political Consultant, Researcher, etc.
  • Average Salary: INR 6 to 10 LPA

As a Political Scientist, you can work in government sector, Media Houses, NGOs, and education sectors.

Policy Analysis

Policy analysts evaluate and develop policies to address social, economic, and political issues. They work for government agencies, think tanks, and non-profits. This career enhances your analytical knowledge.

  • Popular Jobs: Policy Advisor, Research Analyst, Program Evaluator, etc.
  • Average Salary: INR 5 to 8 LPA

As a Political Analyst, you could work with politicians, build and organize campaigns.You could work with political think tanks and research teams.

Management Analysis

Management analysts, also known as management consultants, help organizations improve efficiency and solve business problems. They work in various sectors, including government, private companies, and non-profits.

  • Popular Jobs: Business Consultant, Operations Analyst, Project Manager, etc.
  • Average Salary: INR 6 to 8 LPA

Research Analyst

Research analyst is among the popular political science career options in India. Research analysts collect, analyze, and interpret data to help organizations make informed decisions.

  • Popular Jobs: Data Analyst, Market Researcher, Policy Researcher, etc.
  • Average Salary: INR 5 to 7 LPA

Suggested Read; Career as a Market Research Analyst

Civil Services

The favourite career path for political science graduates is appearing for the civil services. Civil servants manage public administration and implement government policies. They work in various departments, ensuring smooth governance and public welfare.

  • Popular Jobs: IAS Officers, IPS Officers, IFS Officers, IRS Officers, etc.
  • Average Salary: INR 6 to 10 LPA

A Civil Services Officer maintains law and order, enforces national/state law, and to detect and prevent crime.

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Legislative Assistant

A Legislative Assistant helps lawmakers by researching laws, organizing meetings, and drafting documents. They play a very important role in the legislative process. They also play their part in policy making and implementation.

  • Popular Jobs: Researching proposed legislation, Briefing lawmakers, etc.
  • Average Salary: INR 3 to 5 LPA

Other Government Jobs

Political science graduates can pursue various government jobs, including policy analysis, research, legislative support, and public administration. They may work as policy advisors, campaign managers, public affairs specialists, or legislative analysts. These roles involve shaping and implementing policies, conducting research, and supporting legislative processes.

Also, check out the Top 20 Government Exams after Graduation for Jobs.

These were some of the best political science career options for students. You can choose to make a career in any of the above-mentioned career options.

Importance of Political Science in Modern World

Political science is essential in today’s world, especially in India. It helps us understand political systems and solve complex issues. It studies how political institutions work, how politicians behave, and how policies affect society. In a democracy like India, political science plays a key role in promoting informed citizens and effective governance.

This field helps address important challenges like economic inequality, social justice, and environmental sustainability. For example, India faces the challenge of managing over 1.4 billion people while ensuring fair development. Political scientists offer valuable insights into voter behavior, public opinion, and government programs.

Conclusion

Political Science is important in today’s world, especially in a country like India. It helps people understand how political systems work, how politicians behave, and how policies affect society. This knowledge is essential for solving problems like economic inequality, social justice, and sustainable development. 

Graduates of Political Science have many career options, such as journalism, law, policy analysis, corporate communications, and civil services. These roles allow them to contribute to better governance and societal progress.

FAQs

Is a political science degree worth it?

Yes, a political science degree is worth it for those interested in understanding political systems, governance, and public policies. It offers diverse career opportunities in law, journalism, public administration, and policy analysis, making it a valuable degree for both national and international roles.

Can a political science degree lead to international careers?

Yes, a political science degree can lead to international careers in diplomacy, international organizations (e.g., UN, NGOs), foreign policy analysis, and global advocacy roles. It equips graduates with skills in understanding global politics, international relations, and cross-cultural communication, making them suitable for roles beyond national borders.

What are the career opportunities for political science?

Political science offers career opportunities in fields like law, journalism, civil services, policy analysis, corporate communications, political consulting, research, and international relations. Graduates can work in government agencies, NGOs, think tanks, and academic institutions, contributing to governance, public policy, and political analysis.

Is political science a good career?

Yes, political science is a good career for those interested in politics, governance, and societal impact. It offers diverse roles in public service, law, journalism, and policy-making, with opportunities to influence public policies and contribute to governance, making it a rewarding and impactful field.

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