Introduction
Political science is a field of social science which deals with the theory and practice of everything related to politics. Political science involves the study of the political behaviour, system and the political structure of the country or an organisation. It is a very broad field which incorporates the study of historical and modern systems, governmental policies and procedures, foreign policies, public administration, international relations and public affairs.
Political science plays a significant role in our daily lives. Our education, jobs, lifestyle, remittances and taxes are all influenced by political decisions of the policy makers. It also plays an important role in the development of future leaders. It is an excellent humanities subject best suited for students interested in learning how groups of people govern themselves, how policies are made, and how we can improve our government policies at the local, state, national and international levels.
Political Science is taught in all the major institutes in Pakistan and abroad. It includes philosophical, historical and analytical studies of governments, politics and policies. As a field of social science, political science is the study of constitution of a country and different political aspects.
Those who study political science are known as political scientists. They have huge scope for employment in both government and private sectors of the country. Political scientists solve the nations and worlds problem, by using tools, both humanistic and scientific, and a variety of methodological approaches to examine the process, systems and political dynamics of all countries and regions of the world.
Scope of Political Science
Skills once acquired through a course in political science, also prepares graduates to become leaders in other settings where it is valuable to understand the political context, consequences, and origins of laws and legal institutions. Other than in the political field, students can have a flourishing career with organisations like, consultancies, law firms, social research organisations, embassies, colleges, institutes etc. The aspirants for a career in political science, should have vast general knowledge, and should be able to interpret and perceive things well.
Approximately 75% of political scientists are employed by educational institutions. Earlier career options in this field was too narrow, mostly limited to academic field alone. But now it has changed and scope is brighter and one can choose among a variety of fields. There are lot of opportunities in federal and provincial government services also. You could choose to be a political analyst, join the civil service, serve in the Pakistan Foreign service and even teach at the college or university level. They can also opt political journalism as a career choice.
Nature of work
- The majority of time is spent in offices, libraries, and classrooms
- Frequently have a pleasant and cozy workplace.
- At various stages of their careers, political scientists interact with students, other academics, elected officials, and the general public
- Political scientists must work independently and with great attention to detail
- They must be able to express their conclusions and theories in writing.
How to become a political scientist
Everyone is familiar with this subject area because it is covered in their curriculum starting in middle school. After completing intermediate, one can pursue a bachelor’s degree and then a master’s degree. The option to conduct research for a Ph.D. follows that.
The topics covered in a typical course include different types of democracy, the idea of a nation, the executive and judicial branches’ powers and duties, the development of the Constitution, political theories, foreign policy, current international affairs, public administration, and the creation of public policy, as well as topics like economics and sociology.
University offering political science in Pakistan
- Quaid-e-azam University
- University Of Karachi
- University Of The Punjab
- Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan
- The Islamia University Of Bahawalpur
- University Of Malakand
For details on institutes offering bachelors program in Political Science, visit
For details on institutes offering masters program in Political Science, visit
Required skills for political science
In addition to educational qualification many personal attributes are also required for a career in this subject area. The prerequisites for a career in this field are
- Leadership Qualities
- Analytical Thinking Ability
- Interpersonal Relationship
- Alert Mind
- Problem Solving Skills
- Communication Skills
- Good Judgment
- Decision Making
- Intellectual Curiosity
- Self-Confidence
- Ability To Face Stress
- Diplomacy
Job Prospects & Career Options
- Professor or lecturer
- Political analyst or advisor
- Political researcher
- Political Journalist
- Civil Services officer
- Government policy making
- Embassy job
- NGOs