Why choose MA in Political Science for a career in Public Policy

A career in Public Policy is generally ideal for those who aspire to work for social good in collaboration with the government. With a larger cause in mind, these students aim to pursue advanced studies to broaden their understanding of the domain. A Master of Arts (MA) in Political Science is a logical choice for many students. The course helps equip the desired skills required for a rewarding career in Public Policy. This blog further explores the scope of an MA in Political Science for Public Policy as a career choice.

Role of political science in public policy

Let us begin by understanding the key relationship between political science courses and the public policy domain. MA Political Science for Public Policy is the right choice because the course offers valuable theoretical insights, framework, and analytical ability relevant to Public Policy. Additionally, the program is designed to enable students to gain a comprehensive overview of government functions, political behavior, and institutional decision-making. 

Students of MA Political Science for Public Policy career options learn how to analyze and make predictions of various governmental and political issues in the country. They also learn to identify the appropriate and effective policy measures to handle those issues better.

Why MA Political Science is a strong career pathway

Let us now explore further how a Public Policy career with a Political Science degree can prosper and reward professionals in the domain. Students pursuing an MA in Political Science are equipped with valuable research skills. These enable them to identify and solve real-world political issues in the country. 

The degree imparts students with the valuable skill of research, which can benefit them not just in Public Policy career paths but in other domains as well. However, a Public Policy career with a Political Science degree is the most logical step as students learn the following core subjects in the program:

Semesters	Subjects covered
1	Major Ideas and Issues in Public AdministrationPolitical TheoryInterpreting Modern IndiaIndian Government and PoliticsComparative Politics: Concepts and Methods
2	Politics in IndiaWestern Political ThoughtEnvironment & Climate ChangeInternational Politics: Theory and IssuesPolitical Sociology of India
3	Governance and Public Policy in IndiaModern Indian Political ThoughtIndia’s Foreign PolicyResearch MethodologyTheory and Practice of Democracy
4	Indo-Pacific Emerging TrendsGender and PoliticsInternational Political EconomyDissertation and Viva Voce

The core curriculum of the program is taught over 2 years and spans across 4 semesters. Students aspiring for a Public Policy career with a Political Science background can pursue this advanced program for more valuable insights into the domain.

Career Opportunities in Public Policy

This section explores the role of a Political Science MA in Public Policy career roles. We look at some of the top job roles that graduates are eligible for applying upon course completion.

• Government Relations Manager: They manage professional relationships with government officials at all levels, monitor any changes in regulations and policies, and assist with strategic planning.

Average annual salary (approx): INR 24.9 lakh per annum

• Public Administrator: Yet another important role for students graduating with a Political Science MA for a Public Policy career, these professionals manage and supervise all government programs. These can be at the federal, state, or local level. They work with elected representatives to design public policy on public transport, law enforcement, and economic development.

    Average annual salary (approx): INR 24 lakh per annum

• Policy Analyst: They research, assess, and analyze all existing government policies and identify any problems, suggesting measures for improvement.

Average annual salary (approx): INR 9,11,345 per annum

• Public Affairs Specialist: This is one of the most privileged job roles for students pursuing a Political Science MA for Public Policy career path. These experts are responsible for maintaining the public image of the organization by providing information to the media, the public, and other stakeholders.

Average annual salary (approx): INR 7 lakh per annum

• Legislative Assistant: They offer research and administrative assistance to legislators, supporting them in the lawmaking process. They research potential issues, draft legislation, manage correspondence, and coordinate meetings. 

Average annual salary (approx): INR 4,25,041 per annum

Studying Political Science for Policy Making career

One of the key benefits is that there are several top Public Policy roles for MA Political Science graduates. The degree offers a robust foundation for the students to pursue a career in Public Policy seamlessly. Some of the top Political Science benefits for Policy Making career paths are as follows:

1. The course equips students with the much-desired skill of evaluating the impact of government policies on the general public. Students learn how to analyze the potential impact of policies on the economy, society, and political scenarios in the country.

2. The degree makes students critical thinkers. This is one of the most important skills required for Public Policy roles for MA Political Science graduates. They are encouraged to identify root problems and design effective solutions too.

3. Students gain a comprehensive understanding of the impact of different political parties, interest groups, and the media on policy making. 

Conclusion

This blog discussed the Political Science benefits of Policy Making career roles. An MA in Political Science lays the right foundation for students aspiring for a professional path in the area of Public Policy. The course helps build their knowledge and understanding of the government, its functions and processes, and the role students are required to play in Public Policymaking. 

You can now pursue the two-year degree program online from the convenience of your home. Sikkim Manipal University offers online MA in Political Science courses to aspiring students. The course is offered on the Online Manipal platform. Sikkim Manipal University is accredited A+ by NAAC and the online MA Political Science degree is entitled by the UGC.