Is it hard to get a job with a political science degree?

[Nate]

Short version? It depends on what you do with it.

1. The Degree Opens Doors—But You’ve Gotta Walk Through Them
Political science teaches you how to think critically, write clearly, and understand how systems work. Those are valuable skills. But employers want to see how you apply them. Just having the degree won’t guarantee you anything—you’ve got to back it up with experience.

2. It’s a Crowded Field, So You Need to Stand Out
Lots of people graduate with similar degrees hoping to work in politics, government, or nonprofits. Internships, campaign work, or even local organizing can set you apart. If you’re already volunteering, you’re ahead of the game.

3. There Are More Career Options Than You Might Think
You don’t have to work on Capitol Hill to use your degree. Political science majors end up in:

• Local government roles

• Advocacy and nonprofit jobs

• Political campaigns and consulting

• Journalism and public affairs

• Grad school—like law, public policy, or even business

4. How to Boost Your Chances

• Intern early and often: Real-world experience matters.

• Network smart: Go to events, talk to people, follow up.

• Pick a focus: Whether it’s environmental policy or campaign strategy, having a niche can help you stand out.

• Pair it with a skill: Data, comms, research—anything that shows you can do something beyond just knowing theory.

5. Bottom Line No, it’s not impossible to find a job with a poli sci degree—but it’s not a golden ticket either. If you treat it like a starting point, stay involved, and keep learning, you’ll find your way. It just might take a little hustle.

• This reply was modified 3 weeks, 1 day ago by  Nate.

[Randy Cage]

I just graduated with a political science degree last year, and yeah, it’s competitive—but not impossible! I interned during college, stayed active in local politics, and eventually got hired by a policy nonprofit. You just have to be proactive and open to different types of roles. The degree gives you a solid foundation, but experience is what really opens doors.

[Pete]

Honestly? It’s not the easiest path unless you know exactly what you want and start building toward it early. I ended up in a corporate job just to pay rent, even though I studied political science. If I could do it again, I’d pair the degree with something more technical or career-focused. Passion is great, but so is job security.

[Angelina Marie]

A political science degree can take you in a lot of directions—public service, campaigns, law school, consulting, even journalism. But the trick is to not stop at the degree. Get experience. Volunteer, intern, network. If you do that, it’s not so much about whether the degree is ‘hard’—it’s about how you use it.