Political Science Teachers, Postsecondary

Political Science Teachers, Postsecondary typically: - Instruct students in a variety of political science courses at colleges and universities. - Prepare and deliver lectures on topics such as government, political theory, international relations, and public policy. - Facilitate discussions, lead seminars, and engage students in critical thinking about political issues. - Develop course materials, syllabi, and assignments. - Evaluate student performance through exams, papers, and projects. - Provide guidance and support to students, including advising on academic and career matters. - Conduct research in their field and publish scholarly articles or books. - Stay current with developments in the field of political science. - Serve on committees and participate in other activities within the academic institution. - May also supervise graduate students' research and work on thesis committees.

Education / Training

Political Science Teachers, Postsecondary typically need a master's or doctoral degree in political science or a related field. A bachelor's degree in political science may be sufficient for some positions at community colleges or vocational schools, but most universities and four-year colleges require a higher level of education. To qualify for these roles, candidates usually need to have completed high school and obtained a college degree, with advanced degrees often preferred for university-level teaching. Training for Political Science Teachers, Postsecondary involves obtaining advanced degrees in political science or a related field such as public administration, international relations, or economics. This includes coursework in political theory, comparative politics, research methods, and specialized areas of interest within the discipline. Additionally, gaining teaching experience through assistantships, teaching fellowships, or adjunct positions can be beneficial to develop pedagogical skills and enhance prospects for securing tenure-track positions at colleges and universities. Ongoing professional development through conferences, workshops, and publishing research in academic journals also contributes to a successful career in postsecondary political science education.