Political Scientist

Print

Work Tasks

POLITICAL SCIENTISTS study government and public policy and the political behavior of individuals and groups. They study the origin, development, and operation of political systems and public policy. They use both humanistic and scientific perspectives and skills to examine the United States, all regions and countries of the world, and international relations. They conduct research on a wide range of subjects such as relations between the United States and other countries, the institution and political life of nations, the politics of small towns or a major metropolis, or the decisions of the U.S. Supreme Court.

Salary, Size & Growth

• $69,500 average per year ($33.50 per hour)
• A small occupation (4,500 workers in 2010)
• Expected to grow moderately (1.9% per year)

Entry Requirements

POLITICAL SCIENTISTS with a bachelor's degree may qualify for research assistant, administrative aide, or management trainee. Those with master's degrees may qualify for teaching positions in community colleges. Those with a Ph.D. qualify for most positions in colleges and universities. This degree is important for moving to top level research and administrative posts. Training in statistics and math is essential for many jobs. Math and quantitative research methods are used in political science. The ability to use computers for research purposes is usually mandatory.