Careers in Political Science

In India, it isn’t necessary to pursue a course in political science to become a successful political leader. But, as a respected branch of social science, it includes all the ins and outs of politics by analyzing the political system and behavior. Studying political science as a subject includes thorough and extensive learning of public policies, national politics, economics, international relations, comparative politics, psychology, sociology, history, law, and political theory. This subject plays a significant role in all governmental systems and operations. Aspirants, desiring to enter the real world of politics and make a career in political science, should have immense leadership qualities with a decent sense of responsibility. Decision-making and stress management abilities, along with communication and interpersonal skills, will be an added advantage for them. The course is highly popular round the globe and is offered comprehensively by almost all colleges in India running programs in arts and humanities streams.

Course Details
Like all other arts and humanities studies, political science is offered in the basic stage of academics, after higher secondary schooling. To join political studies in the undergraduate level, one has to qualify 10+2, in any stream. After graduation, one can opt for a master’s degree and further proceed with an M.Phil or PhD degree in political science. For specializations, one can choose from political economy, international relations and global politics, Indian politics and comparative politics, political theory, public policy and comparative politics, and public administration.

Career Prospects
A student pursuing studies in political science can choose a career according to his/her choice. After completing bachelors/masters program in political science, several opportunities are available in both government and private sectors. Politics, public administration, law, and marketing fields are always in need of good political scientists. Political scientists even can opt for campaign management, polling and electoral politics, and university and college teaching. The career prospects in political science have widened enough in the voluntary organization sectors, such as NGOs. The international voluntary organizations, like UNO, have huge scopes for proficient political scientists across the world. Besides, they can join media houses as political journalists and political researchers/analysts. What’s more, they can become members of Parliament or State Legislative Assemblies, or serve various political parties as party president, party member, or activist.

Top Colleges Offering UG/PG/Other Courses
Almost all leading universities of India offer degree courses in political science. However, some premier colleges that are popular for conducting this course comprehensively include: Delhi College of Arts and Commerce, New Delhi; St. Xavier's College in Mumbai and Kolkata; Bhavan's College, Mumbai; College of Fine Arts, Thiruvananthapuram; Presidency College, Kolkata; Hans Raj College, New Delhi; Madras Christian College, Chennai; Ramjas College, New Delhi; Fergusson College, Pune; Lady Shri Ram College for Women, New Delhi; Loyola College, Chennai; and St. Stephen’s College, New Delhi.

Remuneration
The salary for a political science graduate completely depends upon one’s academic achievements, personal skills, and capability. A political scientist, after completing his/her studies, can get varied salary packages from different employers. As a fresher, the pay figure may not be satisfying, but it would increase with growing years of experience.