The knowledge of political science is necessary not only for skilled analysis of the practice of politics, but also to serve as a citizen active in the political life of the nation. Anyone considering running for public office or serving in appointed positions in government will benefit from political science courses. The study of  politics has long been understood to be an excellent preparation for a career in law and public administration. However, the skills you develop in our curriculum prepare you for other types of careers as well: journalism, business, public relations, marketing, banking, education, and others. You will develop your skills in analytic and critical thinking, research, oral and written communications, persuasion, and leadership. The skills you develop in the study of politics through the curriculum in political science will give you the tools for an exciting and fulfilling professional life.

Begins Career As A Naval Officer

One example of this is Michael Nataro, who has just completed his BA and MA in the Villanova political science program.  After four years as a political science undergraduate student at Villanova University, Michael has specifically attributed the strength and availability of the faculty, as well as the broad and diverse scope of courses offered by the department as his primary motivation to stay an additional two years for graduate study in pursuance of a Master of Arts in political science. "Villanova has bred in me a love for both international relations as well as the importance of regional specialization, namely, the Middle East in my specific case," he said.

After four trips to the Middle East, two of which were under the auspices of Villanova, he discovered that he had a talent for the Arabic language. The picture to the right is of Michael in Jerusalem on his most recent trip there. 

As a result of personal interests of his, as well as the the Master's degree he earned here at Villanova University, Michael decided to pursue a career as an officer in the United States Navy.  He will be applying his knowledge, experiences and understanding of the Middle East in the gathering, analysis and dissemination of information for the United States Navy.

He was recently sworn in at a ceremony in Corr Hall chapel at Villanova University.  Following Officer Candidate School in the summer of 2008, he will begin his work.

A Variety of Successes

Recent Political Science majors have enjoyed considerable successes in a variety of fields.  This accounts for the average Villanova poli sci grad earning a salary of $41,931.