7 Political Science Degree Jobs

A political scientist is a specialist who examines political theory and practice. They frequently carry out study on subjects like political institutions, public policy, political behavior, and international relations. They investigate these subjects using a range of techniques, such as statistical analysis and field research.

There are a variety of jobs that a political scientist may be qualified for, including:

• Government positions, such as working for a city, state, or federal agency
• Political campaigns, as a campaign manager or political consultant
• Non-profit organizations, such as advocacy groups or think tanks
• International organizations, such as the United Nations or World Bank
• Universities and colleges, as a professor or researcher
• Media and journalism, as a political analyst or commentator
• Private sector, such as consulting firms, lobbying firms, or research organizations

Note: Many of these jobs may require further education or specialized skills, such as law or policy analysis, in addition to a degree in political science.

Political scientists often work in government positions, where they may be involved in policy analysis, research, or program evaluation. They may work for a city, state, or federal agency, such as the Department of Justice, Department of Homeland Security, or Environmental Protection Agency. These jobs may focus on issues such as criminal justice, national security, or environmental regulation.

Political campaigns also employ political scientists as campaign managers or political consultants. These individuals help create campaign strategies and messaging, conduct research on voters and political issues, and provide analysis on election results.

Non-profit organizations, such as advocacy groups or think tanks, also employ political scientists to conduct research, create policy recommendations, and advocate for specific issues. For example, a political scientist working for an environmental advocacy group may conduct research on the impacts of climate change and recommend policies to address the issue.

International organizations, such as the United Nations or World Bank, also employ political scientists in a variety of roles. These jobs may focus on issues such as peacekeeping, development, or human rights.

Political scientists may also work in academia as professors or researchers. In these roles, they may conduct research, teach courses, and mentor students.

Media and journalism also employ political scientists as political analysts or commentators. These individuals provide expert analysis on political issues and events, and may appear on television or radio programs, or write articles for newspapers or magazines.

Finally, political scientists may also work in the private sector, such as consulting firms, lobbying firms, or research organizations. These jobs may focus on issues such as political risk analysis, strategic planning, or market research.

The salary for a political scientist can vary widely depending on factors such as job location, level of education and experience, and the specific industry or sector they are working in.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the lowest 10 percent earned less than $62,470, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $182,810:

• In the federal government, the average salary for a political scientist is around $122,000 per year, depending on the level of experience and education.
• In the private sector, a political scientist working as a consultant or analyst may earn a salary of $75,000 to $150,000, depending on the company and the level of responsibility.
• In academia, the salary for a political science professor can vary widely depending on the institution and the level of experience and education. According to the American Association of University Professors, the average salary for a full-time faculty member at a four-year college or university in 2020-2021 was $92,000.

Also salary variations depending on the location, as the cost of living and the average salary in different regions can vary greatly. For example, a political scientist working in a large city such as New York or San Francisco may earn a higher salary than someone working in a small town or rural area.

Political scientists can have a variety of job opportunities in different sectors such as Government, Political campaigns, Non-profit organizations, International organizations, Universities and colleges, Media and journalism, and Private sector. The salary for a political scientist can vary widely depending on factors such as job location, level of education and experience, and the specific industry or sector they are working in. The median annual wage for political scientists in the US is $122,220 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Overall, political scientists have the potential to have a rewarding career with a variety of opportunities, and the earning potential can be relatively good.