A government is a group of people that have the power to rule in a territory, according to administrative law. This territory may be a country, a state or province within a country, or a region. Governments make laws, rules, and regulations, collect taxes and print money.
Politics is the art of government, the exercise of control within the society through the making and enforcement of collective decisions.
Universities and colleges in Ireland are offering courses in Government & Politics in the following subject areas:
There are many courses in Government & Politics that may take place over a few days, weeks or even 1 year to 4 years depending on the course and modules selected. There are also part-time courses and night courses available so you can be sure to fit in your studies no matter what your schedule is like.
Courses will cover theory work through lectures, assignments, tutorials and taught modules. Assessments will take place on a continuous basis with written examinations and practical assignments combined in order to achieve a qualification.
You could also consider work experience or a work shadow in the industry. Many charities and not-for-profit organisations have volunteering opportunities that will give you valuable work experience Relevant work experience is a good way of demonstrating a genuine interest in the field and is regarded favourably by employers.
Work Experience will not only give you the opportunity to obtain a deeper knowledge and understanding of the industry, it will also give you a chance to do some essential networking with other industry professionals and gain valuable contacts for the future.
After completing a Government & Politics course you will be able to get started in a career that uses specific knowledge of political policies, government and law.
Politics graduates are typically employed by accountancy and banking organisations, charities, commercial businesses - particularly within marketing departments, councils, law firms, local and national government, retail companies and media organisations.
Other employers include the United Nations (UN), the European Commission, the Civil Service, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), lobbying, campaigning, and voluntary organisations and the public sector in general. The skills, experience and knowledge you gain make you very employable, particularly in roles where you can use your research skills and understanding of the political system.
You should aim to take on increasing responsibility and build up your experience by specialising in a particular policy area or by being involved with select committees. This will also allow you to establish useful contacts and make your name known. Try to create a portfolio of press releases, articles and policy involvement. As you progress, you may carry out financial and line-management duties and you can also move into the area of speech writing and research.
Competition is strong and many posts are obtained by applying speculatively, as vacancies are often not advertised externally. Recruitment usually reaches a peak in the run-up to a general election and there is often a shakeout of staff immediately afterwards, regardless of whether or not the party has been successful.
Contact party headquarters and regional party headquarters to enquire about opportunities. Send speculative applications to individual members and make sure they are tailored to their interests. You can also check political parties' websites and individual politicians' websites.
Working hours are generally 9 am to 5 pm, with extra hours likely at certain times, such as during the run-up to an election, when preparing high-profile legislation, and at times of national or political crisis.
After completing a course in Government & Politics, you may choose to pursue further study in a specialist field to increase your knowledge base and skill set. Postgraduate study can also be used as a means to change career focus or to gain professional qualifications required to practise in certain career areas such as Law, Government, Law enforcement, Environmental politics, Human rights, International relations and European politics, International security, Political communication, Advocacy and Campaigning.
What is the importance of Government & Politics?
Politics helps you to know your rights and are a fundamental part of our society. Knowledge of government and politics helps us to understand that if we engage in political processes, using the pressure points built into the system, then every individual really does have the opportunity to change the world.
What are the different types of governments?
Explore your options here
