Improving political science degree programmes in the twenty-first century

Tashfeen Ahmad

doi:10.1108/reps-02-2019-0023

Abstract

Purpose This paper aims to examine the actions lecturers, universities and their administrators can take in improving and making political science undergraduate degrees more relevant in the twenty-first century. This paper will reflect on specific measures undertaken by institutions globally to equip students with unique skills to enhance the value and relevance of their programmes in the context of an increased technologically driven environment. Design/methodology/approach This paper uses a qualitative approach to the review of the literature with implications for practice in examining how universities globally are applying strategies in raising students’ skill levels to enhance future workplace value. A review of select institutions obtained from the Times Higher Ranked (2019) universities was used in identifying best practices to prepare a political science student for better employability. Findings Contrary to prevailing opinions, a huge skills gap exists for filling the demand for twenty-first century political science-related careers in the public and private sector. The attainment of twenty-first century skill sets and the deployment of technology-driven teaching and learning methods are vital elements in unlocking the value of political science education and providing students with opportunities to advance their professional and career objectives. Originality/value Higher education institutions need to reconsider their strategies in the delivery of political science degrees, bearing in mind the increased use of technology and innovative teaching practices. This paper offers insight into how to tailor an exciting and relevant political science programme for the future of work.

Highlights

Political Science can be considered to be a broad discipline and is often under appreciated by employers because of the perceived lack of transferrable skills and because it is not highly regarded as some of other vocational disciplines at the undergraduate level
A review of select institutions obtained from the Times Higher Ranked (2019) universities was used in identifying best practices and evaluating the extent to which institutions are sufficiently preparing current political science students for better employability in the context of twenty-first century job setting and the future of work
A review of select institutions obtained from the Times Higher Ranked (2019) universities was used in identifying best practices used by universities in enhancing the value of political science degree and more importantly in better preparing students for career advancement and employment opportunities for twenty-first century future of work

Summary

Introduction

Political Science can be considered to be a broad discipline and is often under appreciated by employers because of the perceived lack of transferrable skills and because it is not highly regarded as some of other vocational disciplines at the undergraduate level. As stated by Columbia University’s Bernard College Department of Political Science, this discipline explores questions about power, what it is and who exercises it. The discipline encompasses the study of processes, policies and institutions of various political systems and helps train students in critical thinking,. Published in Review of Economics and Political Science. The full terms of this licence may be seen at http://creativecommons.org/licences/by/4.0/ legalcode

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Conclusion