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Tnchom
Student
Palmdale, California
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What is the best job for a political science major focusing on public policy and management ?
What is the best master's degree to add to my major for a good-paying job?
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7 answers
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6180
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Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hi there, Tnchom!
Let's talk about the top job prospects for a Political Science Major with a focus on Public Policy and Management.
If you're diving into this field, you'll find a wealth of opportunities in government, non-profit organizations, and private sector companies that collaborate with government agencies. These roles typically call for a blend of political insight, analytical prowess, and management know-how.
1. Policy Analyst: As a policy analyst, you could work for government agencies, non-profits, or private sector companies, developing and scrutinizing policies that tackle social, economic, and political challenges. This role involves research, data collection and analysis, and policy recommendations. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that policy analysts earn a median salary of about $60,000 annually.
2. Public Administration Director: In this role, you would manage the daily operations of government agencies or non-profit organizations. Responsibilities include budget management, staff supervision, and policy implementation. The BLS states that public administration directors earn a median salary of about $90,000 annually.
3. Government Relations Specialist: Working for a private sector company, you would advocate for the company's interests in the political arena. This involves building relationships with elected officials, tracking legislative activity, and analyzing policy issues. The BLS reports that government relations specialists earn a median salary of around $70,000 annually.
4. Non-Profit Manager: As a non-profit manager, you would oversee the operations of non-profit organizations, which includes fundraising, program development, and budget management. The BLS reports that non-profit managers earn a median salary of around $60,000 annually.
To boost your career prospects in these areas, consider earning a master's degree in a relevant field such as:
1. Master of Public Administration (MPA): An MPA degree can equip you with the skills and knowledge needed for public policy and management. The curriculum typically includes policy analysis, public budgeting, and public management.
2. Master of Public Policy (MPP): An MPP degree can deepen your understanding of policy issues and enhance your ability to analyze and develop policies. The curriculum usually covers economics, political science, and statistics.
3. Master of Business Administration (MBA): An MBA degree can prepare you for management and leadership roles in the private sector. The curriculum typically includes finance, marketing, and strategic management.
References:
1. [Bureau of Labor Statistics - Policy Analysts](https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/policy-analysts.htm)
2. [Bureau of Labor Statistics - Public Administration Directors](https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/public-administration-directors.htm)
3. [Bureau of Labor Statistics - Government Relations Specialists](https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/government-relations-specialists.htm)
*admin note: line removed for evangelizing*
Let's talk about the top job prospects for a Political Science Major with a focus on Public Policy and Management.
If you're diving into this field, you'll find a wealth of opportunities in government, non-profit organizations, and private sector companies that collaborate with government agencies. These roles typically call for a blend of political insight, analytical prowess, and management know-how.
1. Policy Analyst: As a policy analyst, you could work for government agencies, non-profits, or private sector companies, developing and scrutinizing policies that tackle social, economic, and political challenges. This role involves research, data collection and analysis, and policy recommendations. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that policy analysts earn a median salary of about $60,000 annually.
2. Public Administration Director: In this role, you would manage the daily operations of government agencies or non-profit organizations. Responsibilities include budget management, staff supervision, and policy implementation. The BLS states that public administration directors earn a median salary of about $90,000 annually.
3. Government Relations Specialist: Working for a private sector company, you would advocate for the company's interests in the political arena. This involves building relationships with elected officials, tracking legislative activity, and analyzing policy issues. The BLS reports that government relations specialists earn a median salary of around $70,000 annually.
4. Non-Profit Manager: As a non-profit manager, you would oversee the operations of non-profit organizations, which includes fundraising, program development, and budget management. The BLS reports that non-profit managers earn a median salary of around $60,000 annually.
To boost your career prospects in these areas, consider earning a master's degree in a relevant field such as:
1. Master of Public Administration (MPA): An MPA degree can equip you with the skills and knowledge needed for public policy and management. The curriculum typically includes policy analysis, public budgeting, and public management.
2. Master of Public Policy (MPP): An MPP degree can deepen your understanding of policy issues and enhance your ability to analyze and develop policies. The curriculum usually covers economics, political science, and statistics.
3. Master of Business Administration (MBA): An MBA degree can prepare you for management and leadership roles in the private sector. The curriculum typically includes finance, marketing, and strategic management.
References:
1. [Bureau of Labor Statistics - Policy Analysts](https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/policy-analysts.htm)
2. [Bureau of Labor Statistics - Public Administration Directors](https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/public-administration-directors.htm)
3. [Bureau of Labor Statistics - Government Relations Specialists](https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/government-relations-specialists.htm)
*admin note: line removed for evangelizing*
Tamberlyn McIntosh
sales
13
Answers
Roselle, Illinois
Updated
Tamberlyn’s Answer
If you're studying political science with a concentration on public policy and management, it's a smart move to pursue a Master of Public Administration or a Master of Public Policy. Your passion will guide your choice. If you're interested in law or business, think about getting an advanced degree in those fields. Your skills in forecasting, economics, and understanding the political process can open doors for you in various sectors. Consider exploring job opportunities in banking, transportation, or real estate. These fields offer promising salaries.
yoonji KIM
CareerVillage.org TeamDirector of Operations at CareerVillage.org
37
Answers
Los Angeles, California
Updated
yoonji’s Answer, CareerVillage.org Team
Marika has provided an excellent response, and I'd like to expand on it. I completed my Master's degree in Global Communications, focusing on International Affairs. Initially, I had planned to join the State Department, but due to a hiring freeze at the time of my graduation, I had to change my plans. Instead, I moved into the field of public diplomacy.
I found employment at a nonprofit organization that collaborated with the State Department to foster connections between individuals worldwide. My responsibilities at this organization included fundraising, establishing partnerships, and managing communications. Eventually, I transitioned into the realms of Corporate Social Responsibility and educational technology when I joined CareerVillage.
There are countless rewarding career paths available to you. Some may lead directly into government, law, or advocacy roles, while others may revolve around the government sector. I strongly recommend seizing any opportunity for internships, informational interviews, or job shadowing to explore the vast array of options available. Best of luck!
I found employment at a nonprofit organization that collaborated with the State Department to foster connections between individuals worldwide. My responsibilities at this organization included fundraising, establishing partnerships, and managing communications. Eventually, I transitioned into the realms of Corporate Social Responsibility and educational technology when I joined CareerVillage.
There are countless rewarding career paths available to you. Some may lead directly into government, law, or advocacy roles, while others may revolve around the government sector. I strongly recommend seizing any opportunity for internships, informational interviews, or job shadowing to explore the vast array of options available. Best of luck!
Erin Berg
Software implementation
3
Answers
Lakeville, Minnesota
Updated
Erin’s Answer
Take an active role in local political campaigns, be it for the Mayor or other Government positions. This will not only strengthen your resume but also allow you to connect with others in the same field.
Xiaojie Johan Liu
Consultant
91
Answers
Boston, Massachusetts
Updated
Xiaojie Johan’s Answer
There are great answers here, so I will only talk about the available master's degrees available.
As mentioned before, a MPP or a MPA is a good choice for that track. You might need some math courses for some of the core classes studied at a school such as Harvard Kennedy or Chicago Harris. Some economics is also needed. There are just a select few list of schools available in the United States as some schools do not have master's degrees in public policy or in public affairs, so just a simple google search will yield you a great list of schools.
There are also reputable master's degrees programs in public policy abroad if you're interested in that.
Best of luck
As mentioned before, a MPP or a MPA is a good choice for that track. You might need some math courses for some of the core classes studied at a school such as Harvard Kennedy or Chicago Harris. Some economics is also needed. There are just a select few list of schools available in the United States as some schools do not have master's degrees in public policy or in public affairs, so just a simple google search will yield you a great list of schools.
There are also reputable master's degrees programs in public policy abroad if you're interested in that.
Best of luck
Jerry Tingstad
Professor/middle school teacher/48 years
93
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Jerry’s Answer
As stated above. Obtain a degree in public administration. Choose an institution that offers P.A. with (1) a wide range of courses in the field, (2) a work-study program and (3) a history of job placement.
Keep in mind that the field covers national, state and local governments. Which interests you the most?
Keep in mind that the field covers national, state and local governments. Which interests you the most?
Marika Elena Garay
Social Impact Professional
7
Answers
Burlingame, California
Updated
Marika Elena’s Answer
Hello!
I'm sharing my thoughts based on my own experiences, which seem to align closely with your interests during and after college. I agree with previous suggestions that pursuing a higher degree, such as an MBA, MPP, or MPA, can be incredibly beneficial and potentially lead to a higher salary. However, I would strongly advise you to first get some hands-on experience in the field.
My career path has included roles in numerous political campaigns, from local ballot initiatives to a presidential race. I've also spent time in nonprofit organizations and worked in the private sector, focusing on public policy, government relations, and community engagement. These experiences have greatly influenced how I apply my passion for politics and public policy to my career, leading me to my current role and career path. I suggest letting your work experience steer you towards the type of advanced degree you choose to pursue. You might even find an employer willing to subsidize part of your education!
I'm sharing my thoughts based on my own experiences, which seem to align closely with your interests during and after college. I agree with previous suggestions that pursuing a higher degree, such as an MBA, MPP, or MPA, can be incredibly beneficial and potentially lead to a higher salary. However, I would strongly advise you to first get some hands-on experience in the field.
My career path has included roles in numerous political campaigns, from local ballot initiatives to a presidential race. I've also spent time in nonprofit organizations and worked in the private sector, focusing on public policy, government relations, and community engagement. These experiences have greatly influenced how I apply my passion for politics and public policy to my career, leading me to my current role and career path. I suggest letting your work experience steer you towards the type of advanced degree you choose to pursue. You might even find an employer willing to subsidize part of your education!