Political Science

Students in the University of Illinois at Chicago’s (UIC) Political Science Department examine the relationships between law and political institutions, economic and political power, culture, and identity. Political Science is one of the central disciplines in the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences (LAS) and provides an excellent basis for careers in government, law, journalism, business, and teaching.

The department offers a strong undergraduate program as a central part of an interdisciplinary liberal arts education and graduate programs that enhance the university’s standing as a Research I institution. These programs prepare students for active citizenship, careers, and advanced training in law, political science, and other fields.

At all levels, our curriculum offers students a broad understanding of politics and how it affects their lives. They develop the analytical, interpretive and critical methods necessary to understand these relationships at the local, national, regional, and international levels. Our goal is to teach students how to think about politics and develop their conceptual, verbal, and quantitative skills for a lifetime of informed participation in a complex world.

See how other students found their fit below with this major!

Below is a sample of how UIC alumni have applied their political science major to a professional path!

• AmeriCorps Fellow, Public Allies
• Chicago Deputy Director, New America
• Civic Engagement Fellow, Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights
• Legal and Political Advisor, Illinois Commerce Commission
• Program Manager, Home Study and Post-Release Services, Heartland Alliance
• Senior Advisor, Illinois Housing Development Authority
• Strategic Sourcing Manager, Rush University Medical Center
• Training Specialist, USDA
• Youth Council Director, Mikva Challenge

In addition to the foundational set of skills and competencies you will acquire in any liberal arts and science major, there are also unique skills and perspectives you gain from your political science major. Review the list below to learn more:

• Broad understanding of politics and its impact on the individual
• Ability to examine the relationships between law and political institutions, economic and political power, culture, and identity
• An understanding of the structure and function of the United States government
• Proficiency in reading, interpreting, and evaluating research, as well as conducting primary research using various methodological tools
• Preparation for informed participation in civic engagement
• Strong writing skills, including the ability to produce well-constructed arguments

There are many work place settings, industries, and career areas where you can apply your major based on your professional interests. Below is a sample list of industry clusters that other political science majors have transitioned into professionally. What type of setting or career focus appeals to you?

• Arts, Media, and Communications
• Business and Entrepreneurship
• Consulting
• Cultural and Museum Studies
• Education
• Government, International Affairs, and Public Service
• Healthcare and Wellness
• Law, and Legal Services
• Marketing, Advertising, and Public Relations
• Research and Policy
• Social Services