Why Study Political Science?

Why Study Political Science at Radford University?

The political science major is designed for students with an interest in politics and includes concentrations in law, justice and society as well as public administration and public service.  Political science prepares students for the future through the development of important workplace competences like strong oral and written communication, critical thinking, collaboration skills, and internationalization. Political science majors find jobs in political campaigns, elective office, public administration, and non-profit organizations in addition to the armed forces, law and teaching. 

Consider these features of the program:

  • Majors take courses in American government, political theory, comparative government, international relations and public administration.
  • Writing encouraged throughout the political science curriculum.
  • Opportunities available for short-term, summer, semester or year-long study abroad programs. Students can internationalize their resumés and pay the same tuition and fees as they would at Radford by studying with one of our exchange partners.
  • Internships are encouraged as part of the major. Alumni have served with the U.S. Congress, federal agencies (EPA, US Marshals, Homeland Security), Virginia House of Delegates, state and national campaigns and local attorneys’ offices.
  • Clubs include the National Political Science Honor Society Pi Sigma Alpha and the Radford University Political Science Society (PSS).  The PSS is a non-partisan organization which serves as a forum for discussion of political issues (panel discussions, speeches, film screenings, and candidate forums) as well as the development of leadership in student members to plan, publicize, and host these events.

Career Options

Graduates of the political science program at Radford University will find career opportunities in a variety of areas.  Some may require graduate education.

  • Business. Graduates work in all areas of for-profit businesses. They are particularly well prepared to work at the nexus of business and government in areas such as government relations (lobbying).
  • Nonprofit organizations. Students may also work in the nonprofit sector. This encompasses a wide variety of organizations including charitable organizations and interest groups (causes). NGOs range from the local to the international.
  • Judiciary and law. Graduates are involved in court reporting, legal assistance, legal research, and administration.  After attending law school, they may become an attorney.
  • Teaching. Our graduates teach in colleges and universities, high schools, public agencies and grant-funded research organizations.
  • Local, state, and federal governments. Graduates of our program work in political parties, government agencies, as civil servants, and Peace Corps volunteers.
  • Public relations. Graduates work as journalists, editors and public relations officers.

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