Political Science
Politics and governments affect your life on a daily basis—from the environment and education to civil rights and wars. That’s why it’s so important to understand (and question!) the political structures all around us, regardless of your personal politics. This program is for students who like thinking about institutions, power, government and law—including how (and why) they work the way they do. If that sounds like you, then you’re the perfect candidate for this major.
What will I learn?
As a political science student, you’ll take a scientific approach to understanding institutions, policies, laws and more. This is a very flexible major, with only a few required courses. While many students take a general approach, you can also choose to focus on methodology and statistics (perfect for a career in polling), or select a concentration in areas such as American politics, comparative politics, international politics or public law, depending on your specific interests and career goals.
If you’re interested in a broader approach, consider majoring in philosophy, politics and economics.
What can I do with a political science degree?
At UB, our political science graduates have consulted for elected officials, led an economic development agency, worked for polling firms in Washington, D.C., and had successful careers at some of the largest companies in the world.
With this degree, you can work for a variety of organizations, including private companies, government agencies, nonprofit groups, schools and universities. Your career options may include:
- Campaign manager.
- City manager.
- Community relations specialist.
- Diplomat.
- Editor.
- Foreign service officer.
- Journalist.
- Importer/exporter.
- Labor relations specialist.
- Legislative consultant.
- Librarian.
- Lobbyist.
- Military officer.
- Paralegal.
- Police officer.
- Politician.
- Polling/marketing researcher.
- Public relations director.
- Teacher.
- Writer.
Many students also go on to law school or to graduate school for an advanced degree in public policy, business, political science or a related field.
By the Numbers
Check out salary ranges and career outlooks straight from the U.S. Department of Labor to see the return on investment for your degree.
| Occupation Title | Mean Annual Wage | Mean Hourly Wage | Future Outlook |
|---|---|---|---|
| Managers, All Other | $47,950.00 | $23.05 | Rapid Growth, Many Openings |
| Political Scientists | $93,630.00 | $45.02 | |
| Social Science Research Assistants | $93,610.00 | $45.01 | Rapid Growth |
| Political Science Teachers, Postsecondary | $72,800.00 | $35.00 | |
| Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education | $78,500.00 | N/A |
Data provided by the and DOL data from 2024.