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Old 10-05-2009, 09:01 PM
 
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I'm taking an intro to gov't class since it was required for my major, and it's really interesting. I've considered switching my minor to political science because I am starting to like all of the discussions about how the gov't works and some of its "many" faults
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Old 10-05-2009, 09:09 PM
 
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If you're into it, do it!
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Old 10-05-2009, 11:04 PM
 
Location: Houston
3,565 posts, read 4,878,834 times
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What's your current major?
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Old 10-05-2009, 11:06 PM
 
Location: southern california
61,286 posts, read 87,582,718 times
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political science sure why not. yep ye ol 4 year college, college is a wonderful place to escape reality for 5 years. pretty girls, 100 ways to dodge core classes, italian 101 body building ethnic studies. 1000 miles from VE or other job related training.

Last edited by Huckleberry3911948; 10-05-2009 at 11:18 PM..
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Old 10-05-2009, 11:22 PM
 
Location: Maryland's 6th District.
8,357 posts, read 25,280,453 times
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Croye22 View Post
I'm taking an intro to gov't class since it was required for my major, and it's really interesting. I've considered switching my minor to political science because I am starting to like all of the discussions about how the gov't works and some of its "many" faults
One of the guys that I hang out with this semester is a political science major. I have also met a few others over the years. I can say this about them and possibly the major; regardless of their political (party) affiliation, they are ALL outspoken individuals and have an opinion on everything. Unless you plan on having a talk radio program, working as a columnists or other form of writing, or being a part of a television news program, you might be better off not having a pol-sci minor.

Based on my observations, this is a major (or minor) that is heavily dependent on the individuals personality.
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Old 10-05-2009, 11:47 PM
 
Location: Conejo Valley, CA
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Unless your current major is even more useless, I would say no.

Getting involved in politics has nothing to do with what degree you hold and anything you could learn at your typical public university political science program you could learn in a library.
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Old 10-06-2009, 12:08 AM
 
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My major is Accounting/Finance(I can't decide one just yet), but I am still getting my prebusiness courses out of the way.

I've taken majority of my core classes already(Precal. Algebra, science, etc...)
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Old 10-06-2009, 12:56 AM
 
Location: Denver, CO
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I think it really depends on where you go to school. If we're talking a 2nd or 3rd tier university/college, I would focus on something in the business/health/vocational fields, just because the PolySci programs might not be very reputable. If we're talking about a 1st tier university, I firmly believe that your degree will mean more to employers no matter what you get it in.

Another (ignorant) poster mentioned something about being able to simply go to the library to learn this stuff. While it is true that ANY FACT OR SUBJECT can be learned by picking up a book or combing through computer articles (including how to do math equations, understanding computers, and even engineering), the main focus of your course work will be to develop critical thinking and analytical skills, communication skills, and writing skills. So, ignore ignorant people like that, because they will always be out there willing to throw their two cents in.

Also, and most importantly, keep in mind that what you like now might only be a fad. Psychology courses tend to suck freshman in as well, but in the end, most people would rather not pursue that degree considering the amount of work that is required to get a decent paying job.

I would say that if you truly like Political Science, do it. I would also suggest dual majoring/minoring in another field such as business, econ or health administration, since these can be valuable in the business world. Hope that helps and good luck.

-BA in PolySci/Econ '08
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Old 10-06-2009, 02:37 AM
 
Location: Conejo Valley, CA
12,460 posts, read 20,130,705 times
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Quote:
Originally Posted by mcb1025 View Post
So, ignore ignorant people like that, because
they will always be out there willing to throw their two cents in.
There is always a certain irony with people that call others "ignorant", but seriously if you have a problem with something I stated respond to it directly, not indirectly in this inane fashion. But read what I stated carefully, " anything you could learn at your typical public university political science program you could learn in a library." The programs at your average public college simply do not offer a rich intellectual environment and there really is not much difference between learning the material from books. Now, if they were at a prestigious university the situation would be different.


Unless you're going to Harvard, Yale, etc a degree in political science is hardly worth the paper its printed on. You (the OP) are much more likely to succeed with your current majors than if you switched to political science. But, I'd recommend a science. Far more interesting than accounting/finance and just as viable in terms of a career.
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Old 10-06-2009, 03:45 AM
 
Location: Sandpoint, Idaho
3,007 posts, read 6,302,591 times
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Croye22 View Post
I'm taking an intro to gov't class since it was required for my major, and it's really interesting. I've considered switching my minor to political science because I am starting to like all of the discussions about how the gov't works and some of its "many" faults
Our previous disagreements notwithstanding, I would have to agree with user_id. TO make poly sci a valid major, you have to dig much deeper into the structure of governance, law & regulations, funding processes, etc. If not and it remains a major filled with "interesting" discussions, you are better off watching CSPAN and the BBC.

S.
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