William Paterson University


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"I seldom think of politics more than 18 hours a day. "

~ Lyndon Baines Johnson

What is Political Science?
Political Science is the study of governments and governing procedures. Students who are interested in pursing careers in law, politics, or as a civic leader benefit from the study of political science because they learn how governments are constituted and how better laws and governments can be developed in order to benefit the people of the world.

To view the political science department’s website, click here: http://www.wpunj.edu/cohss/polisci/

To view the political science admissions link, click here: http://ww2.wpunj.edu/admissions/AcademicPrograms/PoliSci.cfm

What interests and skills do potential employers value in this career?

Prestige
Achievement
Desire to render public service
Patience
Flexibility
Competitive drive
Tact
Poise
Willingness to take risks
Desire for recognition and to influence others

Some careers that Political Science majors pursue are:

Activities Specialist
Advertising Executive
Arbitrator
Archivist
Attorney
Campaign Manager
Campaign Staffer
Caseworker
City Manager
Claims Adjudicator
Community Relations Director
Compliance Director
Congressional Aide
Congressional Relations Director
County Agent
County Director
Court Administrator
Development Associate

Director of Public Policy
FBI/CIA Agent
Foreign Service Officer
Historic Preservationist
Historic Site Interpreter
Human Resources Professional
International Relations Manager
International Trade Specialist
Job Developer
Judge
Lawyer
Legal Assistant
Legislative Assistant
Mediator
Municipal Services Supervisor
Paralegal

Peace Corps Volunteer
Policy Analyst
Political Pollster
Politician
Journalist
Researcher
Senatorial Staff Member
Social Services Administrator
Special Agent
Special Interest Group Advocate
Welfare Specialist
Teacher
Textbook Writer/Editor
Tutor
Urban Planner
Regional Planner

Aside from majoring in political science, what else can I do that may enhance my qualifications?
Students in the Political Science major at William Paterson have numerous opportunities to enhance their academic experience. Students can contact the department about internships in museums, law offices, and government. Also, many students find that a study abroad experience enhances their curriculum because they are given the opportunity to experience different cultures and governments first hand. Students can join the Political Science Club which will enable them to meet others in their major with similar interests and career goals. The department also offers membership to Pi Sigma Alpha, the Political Science Honors Society, to students who meet certain GPA requirements. Students can contact the department for more information.

Related links:

National Women’s Political Caucus http://www.nwpc.org/

The New York Times http://www.nytimes.com

The Slate http://www.slate.com

Hill News http://www.hillnews.com

C-SPAN http://www.c-span.com

Other sources of information:
Please drop by the Career Development and Advisement Center to learn more about careers in political science. The career library carries career-specific books and counselors are available to answer any further questions you may have.