B.A.,
Political Science
College of Humanities and Social Sciences
What You'll Do
Political scientists investigate the underlying ways in which power, authority, rules, constitutions, and laws impact the lives of people and the futures of nations. As a Political Science major at Indiana University of Pennsylvania, you’ll study American and world politics as well as other subjects that will prepare you for a career in government.
This major offers students exceptional flexibility in choosing major classes. You’ll pick your courses from several areas, including American Studies, Political Theory, Public Policy and Administration, International Studies, and General Political Science.
Students in this major are required to establish a second major, minor, or concentration. Some areas you may want to consider are Regional Planning, History, Economics, Sociology, Psychology, Journalism, Spanish, and Geography. Although an internship is not required to complete a degree in Political Science, it is strongly recommended and often expands job opportunities after graduation.
What You'll Become
The Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science prepares you for employment opportunities in federal, state, and local governments and with private civic groups, interest groups, and political groups. Students graduating with an IUP degree in Political Science have also pursued jobs in business and industry. Some follow the attainment of a bachelor’s degree with graduate school or law school.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there will be increased employment growth in federal jobs related to border and transportation security, emergency preparedness, public health, and information analysis. Other federal sectors may see slower growth or actual declines, due to cost cutting, the use of private contractors, and the transfer of some programs from the federal government to state and local governments, according to the report. Job growth may be experienced in coming years at the state and local levels, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, especially in public safety and health services.
