From Liberal Arts to Professions

A liberal arts degree provides an introduction to a wide range of disciplines, develops certain skills, and includes concentration in a major.  The Political Science major is an ideal liberal arts degree for those with interest in public affairs, as people in these fields must have an understanding of how complicated issues, interests, and institutions interact. The Political Science degree can thus prepare for a great variety of entry level positions in the public issues.

Career advancement may well require a professional graduate degree. Some students who wish to attend a graduate school do so immediately after graduating with a BA. Others prefer to take a break from school, and get some work experience before starting grad school. Both are perfectly fine options.

Students should understand the differences between professional and academic programs, particularly at the graduate level. An advanced academic degree prepares students to engage in research and teaching concerning large questions in public affairs. Often it requires many years of study, and is appropriate for only a few students. An advanced professional degree prepares students for work in public-oriented professions: these include public administration, analysis of policy issues, and law. Typically, they require two years study beyond the undergraduate level, or three for law. Good professional programs attract employers who wish to interview and hire candidates. Such programs have very high placements rates within 9 months of graduation.

As a general rule, our students do not chose to pursue an academic masters program, unless they plan on a career in academia. Instead, we encourage students to explore using their bachelors degree as a preparation for a range of professional masters degrees. Professional masters degrees, unlike academic masters degrees, prepare students for particular professions, including public administration, public affairs, international affairs, and law. 

Study with degrees from Politics and International Affairs are particularly well placed for these positions, because they have been introduced to the various institutions and processes that compose the political and policy world.