Political scientists study the origin, development, and operation of political systems. They research political ideas, analyze governments, policies, political trends, and conduct surveys or interviews to collect data. They may work for governments, universities, think tanks, or non-profit organizations, providing insights on political behavior, institutions, and public policy.
This income data is sourced from the May 2023 Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey. The dataset is updated annually.
Annual Pay Distribution | Salary |
|---|---|
10th percentile | $80,580.00 |
25th percentile | $86,800.00 |
median (50th percentile) | $137,950.00 |
75th percentile | $175,730.00 |
90th percentile | $193,120.00 |
Hourly Pay Distribution | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|
10th percentile | $38.74 |
25th percentile | $41.73 |
median (50th percentile) | $66.32 |
75th percentile | $84.49 |
90th percentile | $92.85 |
To become a Political Scientist, individuals typically need at least a master's degree in political science, public administration, or a related field. However, many positions, especially research or university teaching roles, may require a Ph.D. in political science. High school education is necessary for pursuing further studies in this field, but completion of college—usually through a bachelor's degree—is the minimum educational requirement to enter graduate programs and ultimately work as a Political Scientist. Training for Political Scientists involves coursework in political theory, comparative politics, international relations, research methods, and statistics. Graduate programs often include seminars, research projects, and thesis writing. Practical experience through internships, fellowships, or assistantships can provide valuable hands-on training in data analysis, policy research, and writing. Continuing education, attending conferences, and publishing research are also common practices to stay current in the field and advance professionally.