Political Science Jobs Overview
Political science jobs can often be found in the federal government, universities, or professional, scientific, and technical services and are ideal for college-educated job seekers with an interest in public policy. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 6% increase in political science positions over the next 10 years.
Government and legislative processes are necessary to ensure the well-being of citizens and democracy as a whole. But the public isn't always informed about the impact government policies have on their communities, states, and country.
Political science professionals help keep the public informed and track critical data and trends. These positions include:
- Economist: Studies and analyzes economic trends, helping government and organizations make informed decisions on financial policies and market dynamics.
- Political scientist: Conducts extensive research on political systems, behaviors, and policies to provide valuable insights for government agencies, think tanks, or research institutions.
- Public relations manager: Crafts communication strategies, manages media relations, and handles crisis situations to maintain a positive public image for organizations.
- Urban and regional planner: Develops sustainable and efficient land-use plans, addressing community needs, and guiding growth in cities and regions.
- Politician: Represents the public’s interests, shaping policies, and working towards positive changes in their communities or at the national level.
When you get a political science job, your duties may include conducting research for government agencies, businesses, or nonprofit organizations. You may also collect and analyze data, including public opinion surveys. Other common political science duties include evaluating the effects of policies, keeping track of current events, forecasting trends, and creating written documents and presentations.
The most important skills and qualities political science employers look for are:
- Analytical skills and the ability to interpret and evaluate data and documents.
- Good communication skills and the ability to collaborate with others.
- The ability to think outside the box and explore new ideas.
- The ability to think critically and draw conclusions from research.
Salaries for Political Science Jobs
The average pay for a political science job depends on the type of role, whether it's in the public or private sector, and the location. For example, economists in the U.S. earn a median yearly salary of $85,982 within a range from $53,700 to $120,055, while community planners typically earn an average of $64,071 within a range from $48,069 to $96,692.
Find out how much you can earn at your job by utilizing Monster's Salary Tool. Just enter your job title and location to get results. You'll also find ways to advance your career and median salaries for related jobs.
You don't have to run for office to get a job in political science. Check out Monster's list of high-paying political careers and that don't require you to be a politician. If you do aspire to run for office, Monster can help you discover all the steps to become a politician.
How to Find the Political Science Job That Fits You
Finding the right job in political science requires careful consideration and reflection on various aspects of your career, goals, skills, and preferences. Ask yourself the following questions to help you identify the best opportunities:
- What are my interests and passions? Consider the specific areas of political science that fascinate you the most, whether it’s environmental policy, human rights, governance, diplomacy, or something else.
- What type of organization or institution do I want to work for? Consider whether you prefer to work in government agencies, think tanks, research institutions, NGOs, or private companies with political affairs departments.
- What is my preferred location? Decide whether you are open to relocating for the right opportunity or if you want to work in a specific geographic area.
- Am I open to networking and building connections? Networking is essential in the political science field. Consider if you are comfortable attending events, conferences, or engaging in online networking to expand your contacts.
- What work-life balance am I looking for? Reflect on your personal commitments and how they align with the demands of the potential political science job.
Keep Your Goals in Mind
Define your long-term and short-term career objectives in political science. Determine the type of role you aspire to, such as policy analysis, research, advocacy, public administration, or international relations. When considering political science jobs, assess whether they offer opportunities for career advancement and skill development.
Analyze the Job Description
When you’re on the hunt for the perfect political science job, taking a closer look at job descriptions is key. These little gems contain valuable information about what employers are looking for in their ideal candidates. Review job postings carefully to understand the qualifications, responsibilities, and expectations for each position and figure out if it’s a match for what you can and want to do.
Research the Organization
Before diving headfirst into your job applications, it’s essential to do some detective work. To ensure their values and mission align with yours, dive deep and research the organizations offering political science jobs you are considering. It’s like peering through a window to see if you’ll feel at home there.
So, hop onto their website, look up recent news, and get a feel for what they’re all about. Moreover, understanding the organization’s background can help you with customizing your application, allowing you to stand out from the competition.
How to Apply to Political Science Jobs
Applying to political science jobs might seem daunting, but don’t worry! Monster has your back with some practical tips to land your dream role.
Tailor Your Resume
Your resume is your ticket to the political science world. It should be neat, free of errors, and with your credentials clearly defined and easy for potential employers to read. Tailor your resume to the specific job you are applying for, using keywords from the job description to highlight your relevant experience and skills.
For instance, emphasize research and analytical abilities, policy expertise, and any relevant internships or volunteer work. Use the examples laid out in Monster's resume samples and best writing practices as a guide to writing your resume. And if you need a bit of extra help, check out Monster’s professional resume writing services.
Add a Cover Letter
A cover letter is likely required when applying for a political science job. Make your cover letter stand out by briefly introducing yourself, highlighting your accomplishments, and discussing why you're a good candidate.
- Show your passion for the field and demonstrate how your skills align with the organization’s goals.
- Mention any experience in advocacy, policy analysis, or public administration.
- Discuss your commitment to make a positive change in the world through politics.
See our sample cover letters and writing tips to get more details about what your cover letter should contain.
Submit the Application
Are you excited to begin your political science career? If so, create your free Monster profile and do the following:
- Complete your profile by uploading up to five resumes to share with recruiters and organizations actively looking to hire.
- Activate the alerts on political science jobs near you to stay updated on new opportunities.
- Navigate the job board and filter your searches by location, job level, and other specifics.
- When you find a political science job that suits you, click on “Apply” to start the process, and remember to personalize each application.
How to Follow Up With an Employer
So, you submitted your application for that exciting political science job, and now you’re wondering about the next steps. Here are some savvy follow-up tips to follow:
- Patience is key, but so is enthusiasm. Give the employer a little breathing room after you apply, usually about one to two weeks. If you come across a specific deadline mentioned in the job posting, respect it and follow up accordingly.
- Addressing your follow-up to the right person shows your dedication and attention to detail. Try to find the contact details of the hiring manager or the HR representative responsible.
- Keep your communications professional yet friendly. Email is the most common and effective method. Mention the job title you applied for, express your excitement about the opportunity, and politely inquire about the status of your application.
Interviewing for Political Science Jobs
Getting invited to an interview is half the battle. Now it's time to prepare so you can go in equipped with answers that demonstrate your competency and value. Make sure you do your research on the agency, institution, or company you're applying for before your interview. You must become aware of their mission and goals and how your background aligns with them.
Commonly Asked Job Interview Questions
In a political science job interview, the questions will typically focus on assessing your knowledge of political systems, analytical and critical thinking abilities, communication skills, and how well you can apply your expertise to real-world scenarios. Here are some typical interview questions you may encounter:
- What initially sparked your interest in political science?
- Can you describe a recent political event or policy change that caught your attention? How did you analyze and interpret its impact?
- Have you been involved in any political campaigns or advocacy work? If so, what was your role and contribution?
- How do you handle conflicting opinions or perspectives while conducting research or working in a team?
- What are your thoughts on the relationship between politics and the economy?
Don’t forget to check out Monster’s complete list of commonly asked job interview questions and use them to practice before your interviews.
How to Follow Up on Your Job Interviews
Here are a few tips to follow up with confidence and finesse:
- Follow up within one to two business days after the interview with the person who interviewed you to reiterate your excitement about the position and how well it aligns with your passion for political science.
- Make sure to mention a specific point from the interview that left a strong impression on you. This shows you were actively engaged during the conversation.
- Briefly remind them of your relevant skills, experiences, and how you can contribute to the organization’s goals.
- If after a week you haven’t heard back, reach out again to politely ask about your status in the hiring process.
What to Do When You Get an Offer for a Political Science Job
Let’s dive into what you should do to make the best decision for your future:
- When those offers arrive, don’t keep them waiting. Show your professionalism and courtesy by promptly responding. Even a simple “Thank you for the offer, I’ll get back to you soon” is a better than nothing.
- Before committing, ask the employer any lingering questions you have. Clarify job responsibilities, work culture, growth opportunities, and anything else important to you. A clear understanding will help you make an informed decision.
- If the offer doesn’t align with your expectations, it’s okay to negotiate respectfully. Research typical salaries for similar positions in your region and use that information to support your request. Also, consider other benefits like healthcare, flexible work hours, or development opportunities.
- Weigh all the pros and cons of each offer to evaluate which aligns best with your career goals and personal values. Consider factors like job responsibilities, work-life balance, and the overall fit with the organization’s mission.
- Whether you accept or decline an offer, express gratitude for the opportunity. Being gracious leaves a positive impression and keeps doors open for potential future collaborations.
Political Science Career Paths
Most higher level jobs in political science require a master's degree or Ph.D. in public administration, political science, public policy, public affairs, international relations, or a related field. Pursing study in these areas can help you advance in your career.
Common paths for those with experience in political science jobs include:
- Public policy analyst: Researches and analyzes public policies, evaluating their impact on society. Works with government agencies, think tanks, or research institutions to shape and improve policies.
- Political consultant: Plays a pivotal role in shaping the political landscape. Works with candidates, parties, or organizations to develop strategies for campaigns, fundraising, and messaging.
- Nonprofit specialist: Helps nonprofit organizations navigate the political landscape and advocate for their causes effectively.
Political Science Jobs: Similar Occupations
If you're interested in other social science jobs, you can also explore these positions: