OVERVIEW OF MAJOR
Are you fascinated by the fast moving political events shaping our lives? Would you like to understand how government works and how people and events influence it? Would you like to influence public policy? Do you wonder how public policies shape human behavior and influence the course of history? Does becoming involved in international relations intrigue you? Are you interested in comparing the U.S. political system to others around the world? Are you concerned about individual rights and how to protect them? If your answers are “yes,” then Political Science may be the right major for you.
Political Science is the study of political power, how it is developed, used and controlled. Political Science majors develop an understanding of political life in the United States, and in other nations. They investigate the origins and effects of political behavior, analyze political process, and interpret the political and social consequences of law. Political Science majors receive a broad liberal arts education, learn to exhibit valid information about political processes, become informed about approaches to and theories of politics, and are stimulated to clarify their own political perspectives. Students study the values that give rise to a rich variety of behaviors, institutional forms, and public policies that influence our world. Courses in political science are complimented by courses in history, communication, economics, philosophy, foreign languages, anthropology and statistics. There is plenty of room to explore other interests with 15-31 elective credits. Students are also required to select an “option” or minor. These include: Foreign Language Support Option, Methods Option, a minor in a different department, an Interdisciplinary Studies Program, a second Major, or a program proposed by the student and approved by their adviser.
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CHARACTERISTICS AND SKILLS
* Intellectual curiosity
* Excellent communications skills, including writing clear and concise reports
* Ability to analyze critically and think objectively
* Ability to process data systematically
* Ability to work alone and in groups
* Problem solving skills
* Commitment to public service
* Tact and diplomacy
* Patience and persistence
* Flexibility
* Familiarity with computers and computer technology
* Dealing effectively with individuals or groups to obtain information
* Using surveys and interview techniques for research
* Creative and versatile thinking
* Understanding of human institutions and values
* Independent thinking
* Multicultural awareness
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POTENTIAL CAREER OPTIONS
Political Science like many liberal arts majors provides students with a broad academic background suitable for a variety of jobs in the public and private sectors. Political Science majors are trained to think independently and critically, communicate effectively, and function in a multicultural world. Many employers appreciate liberal arts majors for their multiple skills and their ability to adapt to a variety of tasks and work environments. Participating in internships and cooperative education opportunities is highly recommended to provide training and development. Graduates who go on for advanced studies can attain more responsible positions with the possibility of rising to top professional levels. Political Science provides a solid preparation for further study in political science, public administration, business, public policy, international affairs, and law. Students who are interested in teaching political science in junior high or high schools must complete teaching endorsement area requirements in social studies through the School of Education. The following are some of the career opportunities available to political science graduates:
Advocacy
* Community organizer
* Consumer advocate
* Community relations/ombudsman
Legal careers
* Judicial clerk
* Paralegal or legal assistant
* Legal researcher
* Law librarian
* Attorney
Government
* Public policy administrator
* Civil rights enforcement officer
* Labor relations specialist
* Foreign relations specialist
* Legislative assistant
* Probation officer
* Foreign service officer
* Government intelligence analyst
* Congressional aide
* Diplomatic officer
* Cultural affairs officer
* Demographer
* Foreign correspondent
* International relations specialist
* Legislative advocate
* Criminal investigator
Politics
* Interest group coordinator
* Campaign worker
* Politician
* Lobbyist
* Consultant
Business
* Public relations specialist
* Financier
* Advertising representative
* Correspondent
* Columnist/critic
* Urban/regional planner
* International trade specialist
* Personnel administrator
* Market research analyst
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RELATED STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS
* Political Science Club
* Pi Sigma Alpha (Political Science Honorary Society)
* Liberal Arts College Council
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MORE INFORMATION
Department of Political Science
C346 Andrew G. Clark Building
1782 Campus Delivery
Colorado State University
Fort Collins, CO 80523-1782
970-491-5156
http://www.colostate.edu/Depts/PoliSci
* Academic advising for majors
Blane Harding-Pre-Law Key Adviser
C138 Clark Building
Colorado State University
Fort Collins, CO 80523
Blane.Harding@colostate.edu
970-491-5421
http://www.colostate.edu/Depts/PoliSci/prelaw
* Pre-Law Advising
Center for Advising and Student Achievement (CASA)
TILT Building
801 Oval Drive
Colorado State University
Fort Collins, CO 80523-1033
970-491-7095
http://www.casa.colostate.edu
* Academic advising/Major exploration
Career Center College Liaison
26 Lory Student Center
Lower level, by Student Media
Fort Collins, CO 80523
970-491-5707
http://career.colostate.edu
* Major and career exploration/Job search information
Admissions and Undergraduate Recruitment
Ammons Hall
711 Oval Drive
Colorado State University
Fort Collins, CO 80523
970-491-6909
http://www.admissions.colostate.edu
* Admission applications/University visits and tours
General Catalog Online
http://www.catalog.colostate.edu/
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