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Careers

WHAT CAN I DO WITH MY POLITICS, INTERNATIONAL STUDIES OR PHILOSOPHY DEGREE? click here for some ideas on the varied career choices of our graduates.

The study of Politics, International Studies or Philosophy opens up a world of possibilities for graduates with degrees in these subjects.  Former students have followed a range of career opportunities. Among others, graduates of the School of Politics, International Studies and Philosophy are now: Journalists, Civil Servants, Global Revenue Operations Analysts, IT Consultants, Paralegals, Accountants, Administrators, Clerical Officers, Classroom Assistants, Retail Managers, Social Workers, Solicitors, Teachers, Theatre Ushers and Youth Development Workers.

AN ESSENTIAL SET OF SKILLS:
The range of skills your degree provides you with means that you would be suitable for opportunities focused on a political career, such as those in political institutions or policy research and analysis for multi-levels of government, NGOs, charities and think tanks. However, these skills are also highly prized by a variety of professions beyond the narrowly political arena – for example, the media, journalism, law and public relations. Indeed, Philosophy graduates are now said to be “all the rage” with employers (http://education.guardian.co.uk/higher/news/story/0,,2213665,00.html)

The skills you will learn include:

  • Identifying, assessing and solving problems
  • Analytical, critical and independent thinking
  • Communication and presentational skills
  • The ability to work in a team, and the potential to develop leadership skills
  • Working independently, managing your time and thinking innovatively
  • The ability to see the wider picture, understanding how complex issues relate to their cultural and political setting


FURTHER STUDY:
Of course, these skills will also help you if you want to go on to further study. The School of Politics, International Studies and Philosophy alone provides a PhD programme, as well as MAs in Comparative Ethnic Conflict, European Integration and Public Policy, Gender and Society, International Politics, Irish Politics, Political Philosophy, Politics, and Violence Terrorism and Security (information on the MA degrees).

ACTIVE CAREER PLANNING:
Given the range of choices you have, it is important to start thinking about your career options early. Don’t wait until the second semester of your final year! Try to always be reflecting on where it is you want to take your career so that you can put plans in place early.


Dr Timofey Agarin and Dr Joe Morrison are the School Careers Liaison Officers and work in close contact with the Careers, Employability and Skills team in the Student Guidance Centre to bring you information on careers opportunities, as well as workshops on applications, interviewing, assessment centres and opportunities to meet with former Queen’s graduates now working in relevant fields.


In addition, the Student Guidance Centre is always open for you to drop in, or make an appointment to see a Careers Adviser. Amongst other things, they can help you with:

  • Making decisions about what you will do after you graduate
  • Choice of modules-how this can affect future career choice
  • Change of course
  • Implications of exam results
  • Taking time out during your course
  • Completing application forms or drawing up a CV
  • Preparation for interview or other forms of selection
  • Deciding between options, e.g. job or course


Finally, you can find advice, guidance and information on jobs, opportunities and career development at www.prospects.ac.uk