Our quality of life in the United States is dependent upon our citizens understanding our political system. With understanding comes our ability to participate and keep democracy and freedom alive in the United States. Citizens are the lifeblood of any democracy.
Today, because of our global connection with other political systems, we must also understand other types of political systems.
Courses in Political Science lead not only to good citizenship and enhanced democracy, courses may also lead to professional careers in areas such as teaching, law, civil service, journalism, social research or becoming an elected official.
Political Scientists find career opportunities in:
- Non-profit organizations engaged in education, philanthropy, social and community services.
- Public service in legislative, executive and judicial agencies at the national, state and local levels of government
- For-profit enterprises in large and small businesses, finance, technology consulting and communications.
- Education through teaching at K-12 schools, colleges and universities
What They Do
Political Scientists study political systems and institutions, public policy and administration. They conduct research on public issues and political relationships, power and resources, both within a single country and globally. Research and analysis often include judicial rulings, public opinion, decision-making, ideology and public policy in an attempt to understand decision making, exercise of power, and response to change. Political Scientists often suggest solutions and provide research to make better decisions on issues affecting people, environment and business.
Who Would Enjoy it
Those individuals who
- Are interested in current affairs and issues and have strong analytical skills
- Possess advanced written and verbal communication skills and an ability to present information
- Can collect data and use both qualitative and quantitative analysis
- Possess excellent computer skills
- Have a desire to work toward solving problems for the betterment of societies
- Use objective, analytical, comparative, and historical approaches to problems
- Those with strong skills in computers, communication, analysis and critical thinking, will have the best growth opportunities.
Political Science Student Association
As a non-partisan organization, the Political Science Student Association (PSSA) acts as a liaison between students and the Political Science Program, and organizes social and educational events to further interest in political studies.
Membership Requirements
Any LCC student may join the PSSA.
Links
We support active correspondence with all elected officials on issues that are important to you.
- Library of Congress - federal legislation site www.loc.gov/
(This site is especially helpful in finding out about progress on current hot bills in Congress. - U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow
(senate office) www.stabenow.senate.gov - U.S Representative Elissa Slotkin
(8th District) slotkin.house.gov - Michigan State Senate www.senate.michigan.gov
- Michigan House of Representatives www.house.mi.gov
- Michigan Office of the Governor www.michigan.gov/governor
- Michigan Office of the Attorney General www.michigan.gov/ag
- Ingham County Board of Commissioners bc.ingham.org/
- Lansing Mayor's Office www.lansingmi.gov/179/Mayors-Office
- Lansing Community College Board of Trustees www.lcc.edu/trustees
Political Science Internship Application
For further information, contact:
Michael Giles, Ph.D.
Phone: (517) 483-1098
Email: giles6@star.lcc.edu
Office: 2335 Arts and Science Building
Contact Us
Political Science Program
Arts and Sciences Division
Arts & Sciences Building Room 2203
Phone: 517-483-1061