Political science explained

Definition of political science 

Political science is the study of politics, government systems, and political behaviour. It involves analyzing the structure and functioning of political institutions, understanding policies and laws, and examining the impact of politics on society. The field pulls in ideas from history, economics, sociology, and law, helping you get a broad view of how the world runs. 

Is political science a good degree? 

Political science is a super versatile degree that can lead to various career opportunities in government, law, public policy, international relations, and more. I have friends planning to go to law school, working in journalism, and excited for a career in politics. If you're passionate about understanding how societies function and influencing change, it can be a highly rewarding field to pursue. And yes, in my opinion, political science is an amazing degree.  

Personal and intellectual growth 

Majoring in political science will allow you to grow both personally and intellectually. You’ll develop a deep understanding of current events, global issues, and political structures. This knowledge will enhance your ability to assess politics and take part in thoughtful discussions about global affairs. Whether it’s understanding the impact of elections or analyzing the effects of international conflicts, political science helps you build an informed and insightful worldview. 

Careers in political science 

A political science degree opens doors to a variety of political science careers. Graduates can work in government and public service, law, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), journalism, and academia. Political science is a versatile degree that prepares you for roles such as 

• public policy analyst, 
• legislative assistant, 

• diplomat, 

• political consultant, and 

• journalist (covering politics). 

Whether you work in government, law, or the private sector, the career opportunities for political science graduates are extremely rewarding. 

Contribution to society 

Studying political science also allows you to make a real-world impact. By understanding political processes and systems, you can influence policy, advocate for social justice, and promote human rights. Political scientists play crucial roles in shaping public opinion, driving change, and ensuring that government policies reflect the needs and values of society. 

Branches of political science 

Political science is a broad field with several distinct branches — political theory; comparative politics; international relations; public policy; and research and analysis — that focus on different aspects of politics and governance.  

Political theory 

Political theory is the philosophical foundation of politics. It explores questions about justice, rights, authority, and freedom. Students in political theory examine the works of great minds like Plato, Aristotle, and Hobbes, while also engaging with modern political ideologies. 

Comparative politics 

Comparative politics involves comparing the political systems, institutions, and behaviours of different countries. This branch aims to understand how different governments function and what factors lead to political stability, conflict, or change. Comparative politics also investigates electoral systems, political parties, and public opinion. 

International relations 

International relations focuses on the interactions between countries and the global system. It explores diplomacy, conflict, trade, and international organizations like the United Nations. Students in this area study global issues like war, peace, human rights, and international law. Personally, I’m grateful to be able to do an international relations specialization in my degree. I’ve always found global politics fascinating, and with the state of our ever-changing world, I find it important to understand the dynamics of how countries run their governments. 

Public policy 

Public policy deals with the creation and implementation of laws, regulations, and policies that affect society. Students analyze the effectiveness of public policies in areas like healthcare, education, and the environment, with the goal of changing the lives of citizens through better policy decisions. 

Research and analysis 

Research and analysis are central to political science. Political scientists rely on data, qualitative research, and case studies to understand political dynamics and predict future trends. This branch focuses on building the skills necessary to conduct research, analyze data, and interpret political phenomena. 

How to prepare for a political science program at university 

There are plenty of ways to prepare for a political science degree in high school. I took courses like history and law to get a deeper understanding of politics throughout history and its context in the legal system. I participated in mock trials and debate club to gain public speaking, critical thinking, and leadership skills. It was also very important for me to stay up to date on politics, so I regularly followed the news and my favorite political commentators.  

Recommended high school courses 

To prepare for a political science program, you should focus on courses that develop your critical thinking, writing, and analytical skills. Here are some recommended courses. 

• History: Understanding historical events and their impact on politics is essential for a political science degree. 
• Economics: Knowledge of economic systems and policies is important for understanding political decision-making. 
• Government: If available, courses in civics or government will provide a solid foundation in political structures. 
• Social Studies: Broader social studies courses help develop a general understanding of society and its systems. 

Extracurricular activities and experiences 

Joining clubs is an excellent way to build skills relevant to political science. Participating in debate clubs, student government, and Model United Nations (MUN) can improve your public speaking, negotiation, and leadership skills. This will also help you gain practical insights into politics and governance, giving you an edge in political science programs. 

The future of political science 

As political science students, we have the potential to shape the future. As the world becomes more interconnected, the demand for experts in international relations, public policy, and political theory continues to grow. Graduates can work on pressing global issues such as climate change, human rights, and international security, influencing decisions that affect millions of people worldwide. 

By pursuing a degree in political science, you aren’t just learning about the world, you are preparing to make a difference in it. 

Read more about the Political Science program at Waterloo and start your journey in political science! 

This article was created with the support of Generative AI.