Majoring in Political Science or International Relations at UC Davis can open the doors to a broad range of career fields.
An undergraduate degree in political science opens doorways to occupational possibilities in the public, private and nonprofit organization sectors, and prepares students for graduate education in numerous disciplines. The American Political Science Association has documented numerous well-paying career opportunities available to political science majors in numerous fields, including 30 job categories we list here. The job market for political science majors is considerably broader than this list of representative examples. Understanding of political structures gives students a vantage point from which to build a successful career in any number of career fields.
Business and Finance
• attorney
• communications director
• corporate information analyst
• corporate legislative issues adviser
• financial advising
• legal assistant
• lobbyist
• paralegal investigator
• strategic planning consultantGovernment and Politics
• campaign coordination
• congressional aide
• diplomatic service
• elected official
• foreign services officer
• housing official
• international affairs analyst
• municipal administrator
• political action committee manager
• urban policy plannerRelated Fields
• broadcast or print journalist
• high school teacher
• labor relations specialist
• policy analyst
• political analyst
• political commentator
• polling analyst
• professor
• public relations specialist
• research analyst
• political speech writer
International Relations majors have advanced to fulfilling careers in just about every field. The major provides students with an extensive knowledge of foreign affairs, diplomacy, international trade, economic relations, the global economy, and so much more. We have prepared a career-planning brochure that, while not comprehensive, lists some possible options and opportunities for you to consider.
International Business & Government Sectors
• Management
• Economics
• Labor Relations
• Banking and Finance
• Diplomacy
• Foreign Affairs
• Public Health
• ConsultationLanguages, Education, & Media
• Teaching
• Interpreter
• International Student Support Services
• Curriculum Development
• Reporting
• JournalismGraduate School & Pre-Law
Graduate School and Pre-Law are options for students who want to pursue a more advanced degree with the major. This is because a four-year degree is required for those seeking an advanced degree. Students can learn more about Pre-Graduate/Law advising through the Academic Assistance and Tutoring Center. https://tutoring.ucdavis.edu/pathways/pre-grad-law