Political Science
Description of Major
The study of political science is designed to widen cultural perspectives by providing an insight into political institutions and behavior; to impart an interest in, and an understanding of, the responsibilities of intelligent citizenship; and to promote understanding of the realities of politics and political behavior.
Relevant Coursework
American and Comparative Politics, Law, Public Administration, Political Thought, Economics, International Relations, Public Policy, History, Anthropology, Psychology, Statistics, Foreign Language
Current Outlook
Political science majors are often interested in the Model UN of Carthage, a student-run organization that seeks to introduce
students to the inner-workings of the United Nations and global issues
by allowing students to participate in simulations of the Security
Council, General Assembly, and Economic and Social Council. If you are
interested in Politics, Economics, History, Philosophy, Geography, the
Natural Sciences, the art of persuasion, or just learning more about
other cultures, the Model UN is for you. As a participant in the Model
UN, you will travel to conferences and engage in negotiations and
debates about global issues that are being discussed by the world's
leaders today. If you are interested in issues such as human rights,
environmental politics, nuclear proliferation, terrorism, and poverty,
among others, then the Model UN of Carthage is for you. All majors are
welcome.
The Young Carthage Democrats is an organization dedicated to
heightening political awareness on the campus of Carthage College and
the surrounding community. This group will be involved in activities
such as: sponsoring and running debates, bringing politicians to campus
to speak to this group and the campus community, philanthropy and
community service projects and much, much more.
Carthage College Republicans provides a forum for discussion and growth of the Republican
Party, serves the Republican Party at all levels, and aids in the
election of Republican candidates at all levels of government. The
group also strives to develop strong leadership abilities and skills
among Republican students as preparation for future service to the
Republican Party and to the United States of America.
Phi Alpha Delta Law Fraternity, International, encourages the moral, intellectual, and
cultural advancement of its members so that each member may enjoy a lifetime of
honorable professional and public service. The fundamental objective of
Phi Alpha Delta's Pre-Law Program is to assist undergraduate students
to make an "informed choice" in selecting law as a career, deciding
which law school to attend, and in preparing for the rigors of law
school.
Why take Political Science at Carthage?
THE CARTHAGE ADVANTAGE
Carthage's political science major provides a foundation for graduate
study; provides, with other social science courses, preparation for
careers in government service, teaching, journalism, and related
professions; and to afford the pre-law student preparation for
professional legal study.
SALARY
The national average starting
salary for political science majors was $33,990 in 2002. Those working
in government reported starting salaries averaging at $29,000.
Attorneys with less than two years experience generally earn between
$54,000 and $85,000 on the average. New assistant professors earn about
$36,000.
What can I do with a major in Political Science?
POSSIBLE CAREER PATHS
This list includes careers requiring differing degrees of education and training.
- Political Consultant
- Political Survey Analyst
- Political Researcher
- Policy Analyst
- Community Relations Coordinator
- Political Advisor
- Congressional Aide
- Political Scientist
- Foreign Service Officer
- Professor
- Lawyer
- Legislative Aide
- Public Administrator
- Labor Relations Specialist
- Journalist
- Legal Assistant
COMPANIES EMPLOYING CARTHAGE GRADUATES
- Accenture - Analyst
- Keating and Shur - Legal Assistant
- Aspen Systems - Information Specialist
- Shop-N-Save - Human Resources Assistant
- Sam's Club - Merchandise Management
- State Representative - Constituent Representative
- Congress - Aid
- Law
- Political Science