However, political science is one of the fields of concentration most frequently chosen by those who plan to go to law school. The expanding population of the U.S. and the increasing complexity of government and business have combined to create a strong demand for law school graduates since the late 1950 s. As undergraduate courses are chosen certain goals must be kept in mind. A lawyer must be able to communicate effectively, understand human institutions and values, and develop critical thinking. There are numerous job opportunities in the federal government.
Jobs exist in the civil service, the intelligence community, the military, and the foreign service.
One could be an intelligence specialist in the CIA or an aide on the staff of a Congressional committee. Because the federal government employs people in every conceivable occupation it is not a requirement to graduate with a political science degree. Yet a political science degree can be invaluable a person pursuing a job in the federal government in terms of the acquisition of specific skills and in terms of the insight it may give the employee into the overall political structure and environment in which he or she must operate. Courses in public administration or congressional behavior allows one to perceive and understand the larger political configuration in which he or she operates. Although jobs in the federal government and Congress will be more competitive in future years, political science majors should not be discouraged from making an attempt to gain these positions.