Career Preparation

The Political Science major, like all studies in the Liberal Arts, provides students with knowledge and skills applicable across a broad spectrum of employment in the public and private sectors. Political Science majors are trained to be independent and critical thinkers; to be discerning and active observers and listeners; to communicate persuasively; to constructively engage and solve intellectual and practical problems; to adapt and function effectively in a number of distinct occupational and institutional settings; and to function comfortably in a multiethnic, multiracial, and globalizing society. Our alumni have gone on to successful careers as policy analysts, lawyers, city administrators, campaign specialists, lobbyists, non-profit managers, teachers and business leaders. Many work in local, state, federal or international governmental organizations and several of our graduates have been elected to political office. The Department maintains a list of internship and employment opportunities, which is updated regularly. The American Political Science Association provides many useful resources on career opportunities for Political Science majors. The CSU Career Center also can help students explores career options.

Internships

Internships allow students to expand on their exploration of political life by supplementing their coursework with real-life experience. Internships help students decide whether a future in elective office, government, politics or public affairs generally suits their taste and provide opportunities to make contacts with people who may help with future employment. More than 1000 students have completed our Colorado Legislative Internship and for many it has been a significant factor in their career choices. Universally they report the internship as a highlight of their college career.

The Department of Political Science at CSU offers several internship options:

1. Colorado Legislative Internship – Each spring semester, a group of students travels to the State Capitol in Denver every Tuesday and Thursday to intern for State legislators, General Assembly committees or lobbyists. Open to all majors; preference given to graduating seniors. Contact Dr. Robert Duffy.
2. Northern Colorado Local Government Internship – The Department of Political Science partners with the Cities of Fort Collins, Greeley, Windsor and Loveland as well as Larimer County to provide several internship opportunities for graduate and undergraduate students during the fall, spring and summer semesters. Contact Dr. Susan Opp.
3. Political Science Internship –  Students may arrange their own internships and work with a Political Science faculty member to gain academic credit. Internships may be completed during the fall, spring and summer semesters. Contact Sam Houghteling

To receive academic credit, students must enroll in up to six credits of POLS 486 (A or B), three of which may count towards the Political Science major requirements. Students receive academic credit for the learning they are able to demonstrate through the internship. Assignments typically include completing a daily journal and a paper linking the work to Political Science theories and concepts covered in the students’ coursework. As a general rule, students are expected to work 50 hours per credit. Arrangements for academic credit must be completed before the internship begins.

Internship & Employment Opportunities 

Some organizations have ongoing internship programs while others contact the Political Science Department as they have openings. The Internship and Employment Opportunities page is updated regularly.

Employers interested in posting internship and employment opportunities for Political Science students should contact Kate Sherman.