Is Political Science a BS or BA? Pros and Cons, Job Opportunities & Benefits

Introduction

Political science is an interdisciplinary field that studies the systems and structures of governance, public policy, and political behavior. Individuals who pursue a degree in political science can pursue a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or a Bachelor of Science (BS). Each degree offers its own unique advantages and disadvantages and can open up different job opportunities and career paths.

Pros and Cons of a Political Science BS or BA Degree

When considering whether to pursue a BS or BA in political science, it’s important to consider both the advantages and disadvantages of each degree.

Advantages of a BS Degree

One of the major advantages of pursuing a BS degree in political science is that it typically requires more coursework than a BA degree. This means that students who pursue a BS degree will gain a deeper understanding of the subject matter. Additionally, a BS degree provides students with the opportunity to specialize in a particular area of political science.

Advantages of a BA Degree

Pursuing a BA degree in political science may be beneficial for individuals who plan to pursue a career in law, government, or politics. A BA degree focuses more on the liberal arts side of political science, which can provide students with a better understanding of the ideological foundations of the discipline. Additionally, a BA degree in political science may be beneficial for those who want to pursue a graduate degree in the field.

Disadvantages of a BS Degree

The major disadvantage of pursuing a BS degree in political science is that it may not be as applicable to certain career paths as a BA degree. Additionally, a BS degree typically requires more coursework than a BA degree, which may be a challenge for some students.

Disadvantages of a BA Degree

The major disadvantage of pursuing a BA degree in political science is that it may not provide as much depth in terms of knowledge as a BS degree. Additionally, some employers may prefer to hire individuals with a BS degree in political science over those with a BA degree.

Job Opportunities for Political Science Majors with Different Degrees

Political science majors with a BS degree may have more job opportunities than those with a BA degree. However, there are still plenty of career paths available to political science majors with either degree.

Career Paths Available to Political Science Majors with a BS Degree

Individuals with a BS degree in political science may pursue careers in areas such as public policy analysis, campaign management, lobbying, public relations, and international relations. They may also find employment in government agencies, non-profit organizations, research institutions, think tanks, and consulting firms.

Career Paths Available to Political Science Majors with a BA Degree

Individuals with a BA degree in political science may pursue careers in law, education, journalism, public administration, and other related fields. They may also find employment in government agencies, non-profit organizations, research institutions, think tanks, and consulting firms.

How a Political Science Degree Can Help You Achieve Your Career Goals

A political science degree can provide individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to pursue a variety of career paths. Additionally, a political science degree can help individuals develop marketable skills that can make them more attractive to potential employers.

Developing Marketable Skills Through a Political Science Degree

Political science majors can develop skills such as critical thinking, problem solving, communication, research, and data analysis. These skills can be applied to a variety of professions, making political science majors more attractive to potential employers.

Pursuing Graduate Degrees With a Political Science Degree

Individuals with a political science degree may also choose to pursue a graduate degree in the field. A graduate degree in political science can lead to higher salaries and more job opportunities. Additionally, many graduate programs in political science offer courses in specialized areas such as international relations, comparative politics, and public policy.

Benefits of a BS or BA in Political Science

Pursuing a BS or BA degree in political science can provide individuals with a better understanding of the ideological foundations of the discipline. Additionally, a political science degree can help individuals gain the skills and knowledge necessary to pursue a variety of career paths.

Understanding the Ideological Foundations of Political Science

A political science degree can provide individuals with an in-depth understanding of the ideological foundations of the discipline. This understanding can be beneficial for those looking to pursue a career in politics, law, or public policy. Additionally, this knowledge can be useful for individuals who are interested in understanding the inner workings of governments and other political systems.

Applying Knowledge Gained From a Political Science Degree

A political science degree can provide individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to pursue a variety of career paths. Individuals with a political science degree may be able to apply their knowledge to areas such as public policy, campaign management, and international relations.

Coursework Differences Between a BS and BA in Political Science

The coursework required for a BS or BA degree in political science can vary depending on the school and program. Generally, however, the core courses for each degree are similar, although the electives may differ.

Core Courses for a Political Science BS Degree

Core courses for a BS degree in political science usually include courses such as American Government, International Relations, Comparative Politics, Political Theory, and Public Policy. Additionally, students may need to take courses in economics, statistics, and mathematics in order to complete their degree.

Core Courses for a Political Science BA Degree

Core courses for a BA degree in political science usually include courses such as American Government, International Relations, Comparative Politics, Political Theory, and Public Administration. Additionally, students may need to take courses in economics, history, sociology, and philosophy in order to complete their degree.

Electives for a Political Science BS Degree

Students pursuing a BS degree in political science may be able to take elective courses in areas such as international law, environmental policy, public opinion, and media studies. Additionally, students may be able to pursue specializations such as foreign policy, public administration, and international relations.

Electives for a Political Science BA Degree

Students pursuing a BA degree in political science may be able to take elective courses in areas such as legal studies, public administration, and public policy. Additionally, students may be able to pursue specializations such as public health, foreign policy, and international development.

Return on Investment of a Political Science Degree

When considering whether to pursue a BS or BA degree in political science, it’s important to consider the potential return on investment. The cost of attaining a political science degree and the job prospects and salaries for political science majors vary depending on the program and school.

Cost of Attaining a Political Science Degree

The cost of attaining a political science degree can vary depending on the school and program. Generally, however, the cost of a political science degree is comparable to the cost of other bachelor’s degrees. Additionally, financial aid and scholarships may be available for those looking to pursue a political science degree.

Job Prospects and Salaries for Political Science Majors

Job prospects and salaries for political science majors vary depending on the career path they choose to pursue. Generally, however, political science majors can expect to earn competitive salaries and have access to a variety of job opportunities.

Conclusion

Pursuing a BS or BA degree in political science can provide individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to pursue a variety of career paths. While a BS degree may provide students with a deeper understanding of the subject matter, a BA degree may be more applicable to certain career paths. Additionally, it’s important to consider the cost of attaining a political science degree and the job prospects and salaries for political science majors when deciding whether to pursue a BS or BA degree in the field.