Political Science
Looking Forward
A Political Science degree from BYU prepares you to take on leadership, service, and problem-solving roles in a variety of fields. Graduates pursue careers in law, government, international relations, public policy, data analytics, nonprofit work, and more. Many also continue their education in graduate or professional programs.
The major equips you with tools that employers and graduate schools value: critical thinking, communication, research experience, and the ability to analyze and interpret complex data. Just as importantly, it prepares you to engage thoughtfully with pressing issues—locally, nationally, and globally.
Wherever your path leads, you’ll be ready to apply your skills to make meaningful contributions in your community and in the world.
Competencies and Careers
Competencies Developed in the Program
Students in the Political Science program can expect to develop strong Communication, Critical Thinking, Information Literacy, and Cultural Navigation competencies.
Want to know more about these professional competencies? Career Readiness.
Common Career Fields
Political Science students can use their degree to pursue careers in many fields!
Some of these include: Policy Analyst, Diplomat, Foreign Service Officer, Campaign Manager, Media Strategist, Professor, Data Analyst, Public Relations Specialist, Attorney/Lawyer, Lobbyist, Intelligence Analyst, Communications Director, Human Rights Advocate, Journalist, Community Organizer, Think Tank Researcher, International Business
Meet with your Advisor!
Would you like to know more about the program to see if it’s a good fit for your goals? Would you like to know more about your career options? Do you have a career option in mind but you’d like resources to help you chart a path toward that goal? Come meet with your Academic and Professional Development Manager, Megan Hancock.
Contact the Liberal Arts Advisement Center to set up an appointment.
Meet with your Career Director:
Your Career Director can help you get connected to alumni, find companies that are hiring, hone your resume, and strategically look for jobs. Set up an appointment with Amanda Peterson.
Career and Networking
ONet Online: This database helps you explore jobs, find similar jobs under related job titles, search for jobs in specific locations, and connect to professional organizations. Here are a few specific job titles to begin exploring.
- Political Scientists
- Legal jobs
- Public Relations Specialists
- Intelligence Analysts
- Social and Community Services Managers
Handshake: The ultimate job board for internships and entry-level jobs. Use it to search for jobs, connect with alumni, and research companies.
BYU Connect: Expand your network now and find a mentor! With its ever-increasing database of BYU alumni, BYU Connect can help you find an alum in your field of interest who can help you broaden your perspective, network, and make vital career decisions.
LinkedIn: LinkedIn is the perfect networking tool; not only can you find jobs on this versatile site, but it can also serve to build and maintain networks, research potential employers, and build your job experience beyond the confines of a normal resume. Creating a LinkedIn profile is not difficult, and can be made easier by following these steps.
BYU Career Services: This office offers many job search resources for your job search, including job and internship fairs, networking events, resume reviews, and online help.
Articulating the Value of Your Degree
What professional competencies have I developed by studying Political Science?
Learn more here about the professional competencies that you have and that employers want!
Who can help me create a resume, cover letter, and/or LinkedIn profile that highlights my strengths and skills?
Many people on campus can assist you in creating a resume, cover letter, or professional profile. You can use the Career Studio, your Academic and Professional Development Manager, your Career Director, or career fair prep events.
Who is my career director?
Amanda Peterson. You can contact her here.
Who is my Academic and Professional Development Manager?
Megan Hancock. You can contact her here.
Professional Certifications
Grad School
Are you considering grad school? Your best resource is your faculty. Reach out to your professors about exploring grad schools, gaining the proper experience, and building a strong application. Faculty contact info can be found on the Political Science department website.
You can also talk with your Academic and Professional Development Manager about grad school. Is it necessary for your career goals? What types of programs should you consider? How can you best prepare for that program? What is your application timeline? Do you need to take an entrance exam? You can talk through all of these questions and more with your advisor.
Grad School Prep handouts
STDEV 318
BYU Pre-Professional Advisement Center
Peterson’s Guide to Grad School
Application Timeline
Is Grad School Right For Me
Grad School Research
Grad School Resources
Beyond the Office
Freelance Resources
How to Start a Side Hustle
Volunteer Resources
Manage A Household
Parent Strategies for Improving Their Child's Reading and Writing
- Model good habits by reading and writing in front of your child.
- Make reading materials—ones they will truly care about—readily available for your child
- Talk with your child. Children expand their vocabulary and understanding of sentence structures through conversations with others.
- Give your child authentic writing tasks to help them find their voice and develop their sense of power
Helping Parents Get a College Education Helps Children Succeed
FAQ's
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Toggle ItemI need job search resources and strategies. Who can help?
Start with your Career Director, Amanda Peterson.
You can also take a class on job search strategies: STDEV 317.
You can check out these online resources from Careers Services to help you be strategic in your job search and application process. -
Toggle ItemWant to work before grad school? You’ve got options—and we can help you explore them.
There are many ways to make the most of the years between undergrad and grad school! Your Career Director, your Academic and Professional Development Manager, your professors, and the advisors at Pre-Professional Advisement can all help you find meaningful work that will move you toward your goals.
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Toggle ItemToo busy for job hunting?
There are resources on campus to help you find time to apply for jobs and still be successful in your classes.
Your Career Director has a lot of resources to make your job search productive and efficient.
You can check out these online resources from Careers Services to help you be strategic in your job search and application process. -
Toggle ItemGraduating Soon?
Career Services resources are available to all alumni for 2 years after graduation.
Pre-Professional Advisement offers services to alumni.