Questions about the Political Science major: Jobs, Respect & How to Maintain a Near Perfect GPA?

[collyer]

I've narrowed down two possible majors when I enroll this fall: Political Science and Sociology. I have a few questions though that I want to get out of the way.

1. From my research online, political science is not really respected by some employers and most people see it mainly as a stepping step for law. Wouldn't I be employable if I supplement my coursework with subjects like Economics, Business and Finance?

2. I've discovered that it is very easy to maintain a high GPA in political science which doesn't take any rocket science genius. What is the secret in accomplishing this? I don't just want to get a 3.5, I want to be as close as possible to that 4.0.

[oz]

I've narrowed down two possible majors when I enroll this fall: Political Science and Sociology. I have a few questions though that I want to get out of the way.

1. From my research online, political science is not really respected by some employers and most people see it mainly as a stepping step for law. Wouldn't I be employable if I supplement my coursework with subjects like Economics, Business and Finance?

2. I've discovered that it is very easy to maintain a high GPA in political science which doesn't take any rocket science genius. What is the secret in accomplishing this? I don't just want to get a 3.5, I want to be as close as possible to that 4.0.

Sure a few business classes would be good! Political Science is probably more respected than sociology I would think though but a bit less respected than economics

[winwood]

This all depends on your emphasis. If you do political economy, security studies, or international relations, you might be surprised as to the demand for those kinds of individuals. Most programs allow you to take elective courses - I recommend Finance ones above all else.

As for maintaining a high GPA, you might be surprised as to the amount of work you will do compared to the hard sciences. The secret is to become an exceptional writer. I recommend taking a lot of writing courses and practicing often before finishing your core major-related courses.