5 answers
Rishi’s Answer
A Political Science major will often bring you in depth into political theory as opposed to real-life application (i.e. How to be a policy advisor on a political campaign). Further, my experience showed me that conflict resolution and speaking about sensitive topics isn't necessarily taught in a political science course, it is learned when engaging in discourse within those courses. A communications degree couples well with a Political Science degree if one is interested in doing communications within politics.
However, even if that is not the case, it does not render a communications degree useless. Speaking and engaging with others is a key to politics, thus learning about communications as a craft can never hurt.
Lindsay’s Answer
I agree that it depends on how you want to use it, but I majored in Communications and Psychology and found it was a great additional degree that is widely relevant.
I've worked in business development, government, higher-education, non-profit, and now in the corporate world and I rely heavily on my knowledge and training from that degree.
I find it fundamental to being a strong team player at work, helping to streamline messaging (which is always a challenge in any business), and having a good understanding and comfort with public speaking.
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Michael’s Answer
I think it depends on what you want to do.
Communications is always a great major, especially if you dive into the components of Strategic Communications, Campaign Building, and Values Messaging. If you're thinking of running for office or working a campaign, then communications is a strong choice. You really can't go wrong, as communication is often a skill that simply isn't used to its best effect.
Another strong suit is History, especially if you want to be a Poli-Sci scholar. There's a lot of poli-sci that is informed by our history, and it's very relevant to be able to speak to history when looking forward to sort through the political climate today.
Nicole’s Answer
I was also a Political Science Major and I wish I had minored or gotten a second degree in Communications. I think it is hugely beneficial to learn how to communicate with others, especially in the field of politics. Politics is all about people - it is about speaking with the public and learning what they are looking for from our government. Learning how to properly and effectively and efficiently communicate is a huge asset in this field.
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Elizabeth’s Answer
From my perspective, I learned almost nothing from my major; basically I just got the piece of paper that said I was teachable, and everywhere I've gone has been solely due to my hard work and eagerness to success.
My question to you would be what line of politics would most interest you, and go from there. As one person mentioned, if you wish to be a scholar study history. If there's another issue that you are passionate about, study more around that background (business, for example). The only class in the communications department that will help you is Public Speaking, and you can take that class as a one-off.
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