While majors in the Department of Political Science may be used as preparation for graduate programs in law, public administration, public affairs, or other professional study, the majors can also lead to entry-level employment in government or industry training programs. The programs provide a basis for effective citizen participation in public affairs whether or not a student pursues further professional training. The most common careers are in law, government service, teaching, business, and journalism.

Special Programs and Opportunities

Recognizing the fact that a lawyer must be politically knowledgeable, many prelaw students major in political science. Individuals engaged in the practice of law automatically are involved in "political" activities because of their dealings with the executive, legislative and judicial branches of government.

The location of the Rockefeller College of Public Affairs & Policy in the capital city of the Empire State affords students of political science unusual opportunities to observe and study the executive, judicial, and legislative branches of the state government; the second largest public employer in the United States. With a few exceptions, the principal office of each state department, division and office is located in Albany.

Library resources to support research in New York State government are excellent. Students have access to the New York State Library; one of the largest collections in the world. State departments, divisions and offices also have specialized libraries containing information not commonly housed in university or public libraries.