Political science is the study of politics and government. It is a social science that examines the distribution of power, the role of institutions, and the behavior of political actors. Political science can be studied from a variety of perspectives, including history, economics, sociology, and psychology.
What is the difference between a B.A. and a B.S. in political science?
A Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in political science is a liberal arts degree that provides a broad education in the humanities and social sciences. A Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in political science is a more specialized degree that focuses on the quantitative and analytical aspects of political science.
Which degree is right for me?
The best way to decide which degree is right for you is to consider your career goals. If you are interested in a career in law, government, or public policy, a B.A. in political science may be a good option. If you are interested in a career in research, data analysis, or consulting, a B.S. in political science may be a better choice.
What are the benefits of a political science degree?
A degree in political science can provide you with a number of valuable skills, including:
- Critical thinking and analytical skills
- Communication and writing skills
- Research and data analysis skills
- Problem-solving skills
- Understanding of political systems and processes
- Ability to work effectively in a team environment
What are the career prospects for political science graduates?
Political science graduates have a wide range of career opportunities in both the public and private sectors. Some common career paths include:
- Lawyer
- Government official
- Public policy analyst
- Political consultant
- Journalist
- Teacher
- Researcher
How can I get involved in political science?
There are a number of ways to get involved in political science, including:
- Taking political science courses
- Joining a political science club or organization
- Volunteering for a political campaign
- Working on a political science research project
- Attending political science conferences
Resources
- American Political Science Association: https://www.apsanet.org/
- International Political Science Association: https://www.ipsa.org/
- National Conference of State Legislatures: https://www.ncsl.org/
B.A. vs. B.S. in Political Science: A Detailed Comparison
The following table provides a detailed comparison of the B.A. and B.S. in political science degrees:
| Characteristic | B.A. in Political Science | B.S. in Political Science |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Liberal arts | Quantitative and analytical |
| Curriculum | Includes coursework in history, economics, sociology, and psychology | Includes coursework in mathematics, statistics, and computer science |
| Skills | Critical thinking, communication, research, problem-solving | Quantitative analysis, data analysis, consulting |
| Career prospects | Law, government, public policy | Research, data analysis, consulting |
Tips for Choosing the Right Degree
Here are a few tips for choosing the right political science degree for you:
- Consider your career goals. What kind of job do you want to have?
- Research different political science programs. What are the curriculum requirements? What are the faculty like?
- Talk to your academic advisor. They can help you assess your interests and goals and choose the right program for you.
Conclusion
Political science is a rewarding field of study that can prepare you for a wide range of careers. Whether you choose a B.A. or a B.S. in political science, you will gain valuable skills that will help you succeed in your career and make a difference in the world.