How to Become A Politician In South Africa

A politician is a person active in party politics, or a person holding or seeking an elected seat in government. Politicians propose, support, and create laws that govern the land and, by extension, its people.

What do politics do?

Politics comprises all the activities of co-operation, negotiation and conflict within and between societies, whereby people go about organizing the use, production or distribution of human, natural and other resources in the course of the production and reproduction of their biological and social life.

What makes someone a politician?

A politician is a person active in party politics, or a person holding or seeking an elected seat in government. Politicians propose, support, and create laws that govern the land and, by extension, its people.

Is a governor a politician?

A governor is, in most cases, a public official with the power to govern the executive branch of a non-sovereign or sub-national level of government, ranking under the head of state. In federations, governor may be the title of a politician who governs a constituent state and may be either appointed or elected.

How to Become A Politician In South Africa

Politician Job Description: What Does a Politician Do?

A politician is someone who participates in how the country, state, county, or city is organized and operated. Politicians, at least in this country, are elected through voting. Many people who are involved in politics, however, are not elected but are instead appointed.

The Secretary of State, for example, is not an elected position but is instead appointed by the S.A. President and confirmed by the Senate. Most people consider the Secretary of State as one of the most powerful offices in the country, although they are not elected, but rather appointed by and serve under the will of an elected official.

Generally speaking, we all know what a politician is, but can we really define what a politician does? Of course, that depends on the specific position. But most politicians share similar responsibilities.

Common duties will include:

Listening to public concerns

Proposing new laws

Reviewing proposals from other politicians

Voting on potential laws or to withdraw existing laws

Attending public meetings

Serving on committees

Meeting with constituencies in large and small gatherings

Campaigning for election

As you can see, a politician job description includes many different tasks.

Some politicians are full-time, meaning it’s basically the only job they have. However, there are others who have only part-time political careers. Many state legislators, as well as members of city councils and county boards, participate on a part-time basis. These are often the easiest political office to run for, although the pay is not high.

Politician Education Requirements

What Degree Do Most Politicians Have?

What degree do most politicians have? As we have established, there is no one way to become a politician. However, there are some common ways to land a job working in government.

Again, there is no requirement as far as education. For good reason, there is no law or regulation that says you have to have a college degree, or even a high school degree, to become a politician. Getting a job in politics, however, is much easier with at least some college courses.

Most politicians will have at least a bachelor’s degree. In today’s marketplace, this has become standard education level for many positions, and a bachelor’s degree in any form is common for most people, including politicians.

Best Degrees for Politicians

So a bachelor’s degree or higher is preferred. But what should you study? If becoming a career politician is your ultimate goal, there are a few degrees you should consider.

Political Science

Probably the most obvious is a degree in political science. This subject, which is one of the best degrees for politicians, covers government and it roles and functions in society, including how it can help people and how government can become a hindrance to individuals.

Throughout a political science degree, you’ll learn how to develop effective policy, conduct research, collect and analyze data, and pass effective measures. If you want to become a career politician, this may be the best education.

A political science degree online could be a good way to start your political career path. A political science degree salary can also be very lucrative, even if you don’t work in politics.

Courses in a political science program may include American politics, international relations, foreign policy, and political theory. Many programs will focus on the historical foundations of politics, such as the South Africa Constitution and how America’s ever-evolving culture shaped policy, elections, and governing bodies.

From learning about local governments to studying international relations, a political science degree gives you a strong foundation for pursuing this interesting and engaging career. There are many jobs for political science majors right out of college, and a bachelor’s degree will prepare you for these positions.

A master’s degree is also a potential option. What can you do with a masters in political science? This education will increase your understanding of the political process and make you a more effective politician, advisor, or administrator.

STEPS TO BECOME A POLITICIAN IN SOUTH AFRICA

Step 1: Earn Your Degree

While it is possible to get into politics without having a degree, voters will be more inclined to vote for you if you hold a degree. Having even an undergraduate degree tells voters that you are knowledgeable on current events and political structure.

The best place to start is by enrolling in a college or university with a Bachelor’s in Political Science degree program. This type of program will give you a good foundation in the basics of government and politics.

Step 2: Become Visible in Your Local Community

Before hitting the larger national stage, you must be seen in your local community so that voters will recognize your name. You should volunteer for local committees and boards, join the local chapter of your preferred political party, and generally help out in your local area. This way, voters will know who you are when it comes time to run for office.

Step 3: Practice Public Speaking at Local Events

Now that your name is out there in your local community, hone your public speaking skills. Speak at local organized events, whether or not they are considered political gatherings.

In addition to speaking in front of larger groups, start speaking to strangers you see around town. Being a good communicator is a large part of becoming a good politician.

Step 4: Research the Requirements

Each jurisdiction has its own requirements for those who wish to run for elected office.

Depending upon the office you wish to hold, go to your local City Hall, state capital, or county offices and request a list of written requirements for becoming a politician there. You may also discover that you need to have a petition with a certain number of constituents’ signatures in order to get your name on the next election ballot.

Where can I study politics in South Africa?

The largest cities offering Bachelor programs in Political Science in South Africa

CityUniversitiesAction
Hatfield1Show universities
Krugersdorp1Show universities
Polokwane1Show universities
Potchefstroom1Show universities

What can I do with a politics degree in South Africa?

Political Science major graduates can find jobs such as: political analyst, public relations specialist, media manager, political consultant, political campaign staff, political writer, paralegal, and more.

What do you need to study politics in South Africa ?

These will typically be humanities and social science subjects such as economics, history, geography, modern languages, philosophy and sociology. In other cases, the university will simply set requirements based on grades, rather than specific subjects (such as ‘AAB’ for those completing UK A-levels).

What jobs can I get if I study politics in South Africa ?

Job options

Civil Service Fast Streamer.

Government social research officer.

Policy officer.

Political risk analyst.

Politician’s assistant.

Public affairs consultant.

Social researcher.

How much do political analysts earn in South Africa?

R610,876 (ZAR)/yr.

Can you become a lawyer with a politics degree in South Africa ?

Politicians might pass laws, but it’s up to the legal system to make sure it works. You’ll normally have to do a law conversion course if you want to become a lawyer, and additional training for a career in the police, although there are other ways in.

What skills do you need to be a politician in South Africa ?

Skills and knowledge

legal knowledge including court procedures and government regulations.

an understanding of society and culture.

excellent verbal communication skills.

analytical thinking skills.

active listening skills.

the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning.

to be thorough and pay attention to detail.

How old do you have to be to become a politician in South Africa ?

State government

StateGovernorLower House
California18*18*
Colorado3025
Connecticut3018*
Delaware3024

How can I learn political science in South Africa ?

The study of political science requires an in-depth understanding of numerous topics. First, it’s important to understand the levels of government that exist. Second, you have to understand different political ideas and theories. Third, you have to understand the different groups that influence the government.