The Goals of Students Learning Politics and Political Science

The field of politics often elicits mixed reactions among students. While it's commonly misinterpreted as a discipline focused solely on government and elections, politics and political science indeed offer a much broader scope for understanding and shaping society. However, the goals of students studying these fields can vary widely, ranging from personal career ambitions to a deeper understanding of societal dynamics.

Different Approaches to Studying Politics

At the University of California, Santa Cruz (UCSC), the approach to studying politics has historically varied. Graduating early with a lighter required course load, or even graduating on time despite initially failing their chosen major, was common. The major in political science at UCSC was typically described as the least-demanding and generally peripheral to the university's core academic strengths. It's a field that allows students to explore various aspects of governance and policy without being overly burdened by academic rigor.

In contrast, at the George Washington University (GW), the pursuit of a political science degree was more hardcore. For students who aspired to enter the foreign service or prepare for public policy positions, the academic demands were high, and the major played a central role in the university's academic focus. This rigorous academic requirement ensures that students are well-prepared for careers in policy-making, diplomacy, and political analysis.

The Core of Political Science: Understanding and Improving Society

When students set out to study political science, what they often learn first is the crucial distinction between politics and political science. Politics, in its simplest form, revolves around the processes and actions of governance, power, and influence. Political science, on the other hand, is a systematic and academic pursuit that seeks to understand and improve societies through a scientific approach.

The ultimate goal of studying politics and political science is multifaceted. Primarily, it involves studying how to build, improve, or sustain harmonious societies. This involves exploring various dimensions such as:

The structure and functioning of governments Theories of leadership and public administration The impact of domestic and international policies on society Methods for analyzing and addressing societal issues like inequality, poverty, and environmental concerns

By engaging with these topics, students gain a comprehensive understanding of the complexities of political systems and the role they play in shaping the world around us. This scientific methodology not only enhances their analytical skills but also encourages them to think critically and creatively about how to address real-world challenges.

Preparing for Diverse Careers

Traditionally, political science graduates with a focus on preparing for careers in the public sector, international relations, and non-profit organizations. The rigorous academic programs help equip students with the necessary skills for these career paths. By learning about political theories, economic policies, and social movements, students become more adept at navigating complex political landscapes.

Moreover, the critical thinking and research methodologies learned in political science can be applied to various professions. For instance, students can find opportunities in:

Public administration: managing government agencies and non-profit organizations Policy analysis: evaluating and shaping public policies Journalism: covering political events and trends Law: working with constitutional law and public interest cases International relations: working in diplomacy and international organizations

By combining academic rigor with practical applications, political science programs ensure that graduates are well-prepared for diverse and dynamic career paths.

Personal Growth and Societal Impact

Beyond the professional goals, studying politics and political science can also foster personal growth and a deeper understanding of society. As students engage with complex political theories and real-world issues, they develop the ability to:

Analyze and synthesize information effectively Prioritize and make informed decisions Communicate complex ideas clearly and persuasively Collaborate with diverse groups and perspectives

These skills are not only beneficial in professional settings but also in personal life, enhancing decision-making and problem-solving abilities. Moreover, understanding political systems and social issues helps students contribute more meaningfully to their communities and societies. They become more informed citizens, capable of advocating for positive change and addressing social injustices.

Studying politics and political science is more than just a pursuit of knowledge; it's a journey towards shaping a better world. Whether aiming for a career in public service, policy-making, or non-profit work, or simply seeking to understand the complexities of our society, the goals of students in this field are ambitious and far-reaching.