Politics-related careers are available in a variety of fields today, including government, communications, research, analytical work, and more. What are the best jobs for political science majors, though? Political science students can advance in their fields with security, good pay, and the satisfaction of having followed a successful path with the right degree and career moves.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics states that in order to hold the title of Political Scientist, one must possess a master’s degree. Political scientists currently earn an average annual salary of $125,350, and job growth is expected to be 9% over the next ten years. There are many reasons to study politics, but there are also a ton of other jobs you can get with a political science degree.
In addition to defining the field and outlining how to launch a career, this article will look at the highest paying jobs available to political science majors. Learn more about the opportunities available to political science majors today by reading on.
Become a Political Scientist in 2021? Salary, Jobs, Education
Education
Political science professionals typically hold a master’s degree in the subject. If you want to study political science, you should first earn a bachelor’s degree in the subject or a closely related field before completing a graduate program in the subject. After gaining experience and working as a political scientist, you may decide to advance your career by obtaining a doctorate in political science. With a doctorate, you can train to work as a senior political official or as a political science professor at a college or university.
Certification and licensing
Although a certification in political science is not necessary to work in the field, you can choose to do so to enhance your credentials and title. You can pass the exam provided by the Academy of Certified Political Analysts and Certified Political Scientists if you take this path.
After passing the test, this organization grants you the title of certified political scientist (CPS) or certified political analyst (CPA) in the field of political science. Having this certification can give you an advantage during the hiring process, especially if you’re applying for a job with a large corporation or government organization.
How to become a political scientist
The following are some prerequisites for becoming a political scientist:
What Political Scientists Do
About this section
Political scientists often present their findings.
Political scientists research how political systems are created, developed, and run. They investigate political theories and evaluate governments, laws, political movements, and associated problems.
Political scientists typically do the following:
National politics, comparative politics, international relations, or political theory are typically the areas of study for political scientists.
Political scientists frequently use qualitative research techniques, collecting data from a variety of sources. For instance, they might examine historical records to assess previous governmental frameworks and practices. Quantitative techniques are also used by political scientists to create and test their theories. For instance, they might examine voter registration information to find voting trends. Political scientists research a variety of subjects, including U S. political parties, the variations in political systems across nations, globalization, and the development of political thought
Additionally, political scientists serve as policy analysts for institutions with an interest in policy, including the government, labor unions, and political parties. With the aid of economic data, election results, and public opinion surveys, they assess current policies and events. They attempt to predict the effects of new policies using these sources.
Political scientists frequently study how government policies affect a specific area or population, both domestically and abroad. As a result, they offer data and analysis that aid in developing or implementing policies.
Many people with backgrounds in political science end up teaching in high schools and postsecondary institutions.
What is Political Science?
What exactly is political science, and what do students who pursue a degree in it learn?
Despite having a political focus, the field also covers a wide range of topics, from communications and research to collaborative leadership and administration, making it a good fit for a wide range of careers. In a nutshell, political science is social science. Political scientists are responsible for outlining and evaluating political structures and procedures.
Local city councils to global institutions like the United Nations are all included in the study of politics. Political institutions and organizations, as well as their practices and effects on the public and private sectors, individuals, etc. are all things that students with degrees in political science are familiar with.
Courses in a liberal arts political science degree may cover current affairs, public policies, political research, research design, international relations, and constitutional law, though each program is unique.
How to Enter the Political Science Field
There are numerous career options in political science, but there are specific steps to take to enter the field. The following actions are advised in this article as a way to pursue a career in political science:
FAQ
How much are political scientists paid?
SummaryQuick Facts: Political Scientists2021 Median Pay$122,510 per year $58. 90 per hour Typical Entry-Level EducationMaster’s degreeNo prior work experience in a related fieldNo on-the-job training
Do political scientists make a lot of money?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that political scientists make an average salary of $122,510. The pay of a political scientist may vary depending on a number of variables, such as their level of experience and the size of the organization they work for.
Does political science make good money?
Political scientists in the US earn an average yearly salary of $90,366. The lowest reported salary is $53,239 per year, and the highest reported salary is $153,384 per year, depending on the company you work for.
What is the highest paying job in politics?
- Statistician. …
- Economist. …
- Chief of staff. …
- Policy analyst. …
- Lawyer. …
- Speechwriter. Average annual salary: $136,000 (£99,800) …
- Communications director. Average annual salary: $141,490 (£103,840) …
- President / Prime minister. Average annual salary: $400,000 (£293,550)
