What Sets an Applied Politics Diploma Apart from Traditional Political Science?

Choosing the right political studies program to jumpstart your career can be challenging. With many different degree and diploma options in public affairs, applied politics and political science across Canada, it’s natural to feel uneasy about where to begin. 

What is applied politics compared to political science? In a nutshell, applied politics and public affairs focuses on practical skills and real-world political application, while political science centres more on ideas and theories about how political systems function. But how do the approaches and programs differ? And what career paths does each field of study offer? Let’s explore the key distinctions between these programs and what makes applied politics unique.

Key Differences Between Applied Politics and Political Science

Approach

The approach in both applied politics diploma programs and political science degree programs share some overlaps as well as key differences. Both cover the basics of political studies but differ in focus and learning styles.

In an applied politics program, students engage in practical learning through a combination of foundational political studies courses and hands-on training. Like political science majors, they learn political theory, the role of government and the responsibilities of government personnel. However, applied politics offers additional applicable experience in administrative, communication, and advocacy skills essential for public affairs and other government-related careers.

Political science is typically offered as a 4-year degree program focusing on both the theory and practical workings of government. Political science majors explore topics such as political theory, historical analysis and the comparison of different governments in the world. Students study key political concepts, such as justice, representation and democracy, while developing research and analysis skills. Political science degrees cover how governments operate and manage policy issues, but they emphasize academic research and critical thinking more than hands-on experience.

Curriculum

An applied politics curriculum may include courses on government and policies, political history, ideologies, research, political campaigns, communications and media relations and lobbying. MaKami’s one-of-a-kind Applied Politics and Public Affairs diploma curriculum provides additional studies in communication, marketing, event planning and other business administration skills that are all useful for a job in government. The applied politics program also provides real-world experience and connections in Alberta and local governments to help graduates obtain employment.

On the other hand, political science curriculums are often comprised of political theory, the history of politics, government and policies, international relations, and political ideologies. Political science majors develop research, statistical analysis and communication skills. The curriculum focuses on law, policy, campaigns and elections, and the study of governments in Canada and across the globe. Many students who study political science use it as a stepping stone for advanced degrees in law, education, or even in medicine.

Career Paths for Political Science & Public Affairs Diplomas

Career opportunities vary depending on the political program you choose. If you have a specific job in mind, understanding which careers align with each program can help you decide which path to take. If you know you want to work in politics but aren’t sure in what role, exploring job options available after graduation can give you a clearer idea of the careers to aim for.

Careers with a Political Science Degree or Diploma

Political science majors have access to a wide range of career opportunities across both the public and private sectors. Political science graduates often find roles as educators, researchers or political advisors. Others work for non-profit organizations, in businesses that work with the government or directly within political offices. Many students also use their political science degree as a foundation to pursue advanced degrees in law, education, or other graduate programs.

Many graduates of political science programs often obtain roles as policy analysts, political advisors, public servants and even diplomats. They can work in various levels of government to contribute to government policy, campaign management, research, and more. Other potential career paths for political science degree graduates include lobbyists, public relations specialists, community outreach coordinators, media analysts, journalists, and other jobs where they can utilize the analytics and research skills developed in the program. 

Careers with an Applied Politics Diploma

An applied politics and public affairs diploma can prepare graduates for a variety of careers. Graduates have the opportunity to pursue roles in government, public affairs, policy advocacy, campaign management and at non-profit organizations. With the skills learned in an applied politics program, many find roles as policy analysts, legislative assistants, communications officers and public affairs specialists.

Since an applied politics diploma program includes a foundation of political studies along with administrative and professional skills development, graduates are prepared for careers in government or the private sector after as little as two years. Many pursue roles in election administration, in public relations or for private businesses. The hands-on experience available with an applied politics diploma enables students to transition easily into a variety of political jobs.

Skills Development for Political Careers

There are some overlapping skills taught in both a political science and applied politics program along with unique skills specific to each. Both programs equip students with valuable tools for success, but applied politics leans towards practical, hands-on experience designed for immediate entry into various roles in public affairs, advocacy and government. In contrast, political science emphasizes theoretical foundations and research, making it a strong pathway for those interested in academia or advanced studies.

In an applied politics program, students develop communication skills to effectively engage with the public, other government officials and the media while learning conflict resolution techniques. They gain administration skills, expertise in public policy influence, lobbying strategies and political fundraising tactics. In addition to foundational political science concepts, applied politics studies also focus on the importance of diversity and inclusion in politics, the role of democracy in politics and society, and the impact of different political ideologies on decision-making.

Political science students build skills in statistical analysis, research and communication. The focus of a political science program is primarily on understanding the history of government and politics, political ideologies and public policies. While more theory-based than applied, the analytical, research and theoretical knowledge gained by political science majors provide valuable skills that can be applied in practical, real-world contexts.

Is Applied Politics Right For You?

When weighing applied politics vs. political science programs, both paths allow you to develop valuable communication skills and knowledge of government and political theories. Applied politics is typically offered as a two-year diploma with an emphasis on hands-on learning, preparing graduates for immediate roles in government or the private sector right after graduation. In contrast, political science generally leads to teaching positions or the pursuit of further advanced degrees. If you’re looking to launch your career with a role that makes a difference in government and politics right after graduation, applied politics may be the right choice for you.

Interested in a practical learning approach to work in politics? Learn more about MaKami’s Applied Politics and Public Affairs diploma program.