The University of Akron Political Science is one of the best tools for a student seeking a comprehensive liberal arts education. Critical thinking, argumentative writing, analysis, persuasion, and social research are some of the foundational skills our students will have after completing a Political Science major. Additionally, our students are well prepared to compete in a competitive, global market requiring ethical and practical problem-solving skills. Political science is the study of the institutions and procedures people use to regulate conflict within and between nations. Coursework addresses: U.S. political and government systems, institutions of other nations, political systems and international connections, war and peace, global balance of power. Gain practical professional experience through UA's optional cooperative education program. Through co-op, you’ll alternate semesters of work and school while earning a competitive salary. The Ray C. Bliss Institute of Applied Politics provides internship opportunities with political party organizations, candidates, interest groups and public officials at the national, state and local levels. You will learn to think critically and independently about key issues in politics and develop a range of skills to support your intellectual, vocational, and personal development. Given the interdisciplinary nature of the department, you will also have many opportunities to explore the interplay between politics and economics. In your first year, you will learn about core concepts and issues in global and national politics and about statistical techniques that political scientists employ. Your second and third years will feature a wide range of options including further methodological training, plus some required modules, depending on whether you choose the Politics BA or BSc degree.
Career Path
Graduate career path includes Policy Analyst (Government/NGO), Legislative Assistant, Public Relations Specialist (Political/Corporate), Political Campaign Staffer, Diplomatic Services Officer,Political Journalist / Analyst, Civil Service Administrator, International Development Officer, Political Consultant, Nonprofit Program Coordinator (Policy/Advocacy), Lobbyist / Advocacy Specialist , Community Organizer,Research Assistant (Think Tanks, Universities), Public Affairs Specialist, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Officer, Human Rights Officer (NGOs, International Organizations), Urban Planning & Policy Assistant, Immigration & Customs Policy Analyst, Intelligence Analyst (Government/Defense), Foreign Service Officer, International Trade Analyst.
