Journalists are on the front lines of current events as they unfold and serve as a direct line of communication with the public. Often, this requires a nuanced understanding of the past, as well as the implications of laws, policies, and social conventions. Those who work in the media - particularly news organizations - are responsible for the accurate and accessible portrayal of current events. A few possible career paths for history majors include: Journalist While professionals in both fields flex strong critical thinking skills, researching ability, and communication expertise, they often do so with different job titles. While the differences between history and political science study might be slight, the career paths can diverge significantly. These jobs tend to require research, analysis, and strong communication skills. Whether working in the public or private sector, political science majors often collect and interpret survey data, assist with political campaigns, forecast political trends, and investigate the impact of various policies and laws at the local, state, federal, and international levels. Those who earn their online bachelor’s degree in history often seek positions that require them to conduct research, synthesize information, make strategic recommendations, and solve complex problems.Īlternatively, those pursuing a degree in political science often seek careers in the government in some capacity, though this is not always true. History majors generally have broadly applicable skills that prepare them for a wide array of career options that span various industries, from government to education and law. For those enrolled in a history program, this is an opportunity to tailor the application of skills learned to specific areas of interest. In addition, students often complete an experiential internship, capstone, or seminar, where they are able to apply their studies to real-life situations. Both political science and history degrees allow students to develop their communication skills, as well as their ability to synthesize information. The difference between history and political science study is nuanced. This historical awareness is then put in the context of current events, including politics. By studying topics such as world history, American history, philosophy, and foreign policy, students gain a general understanding of history and have the chance to dive deeper into specific topics of interest. While political science programs tend to focus coursework on government and policy, history majors often examine events in a broader context. Maryville University’s online Bachelor of Arts program in history takes students through a dynamic curriculum that provides students with the opportunity to gain valuable critical thinking, research, and analysis skills. The core purpose of most history programs is to allow students to cultivate a profound appreciation for past events and how they impact the present. On the other hand, a political science degree focuses primarily on past and current events through the lens of politics. A history degree program contributes to a deep understanding of the cultural and historical context of political decisions, social movements, and cultural shifts over time. While both degree options tend to discuss the philosophical and practical implications of political decisions and cultural movements, what is the difference between history and political science in practice? There are a few distinct contrasts between the two. History and political science may seem like two sides of the same coin.