Nature of the Work

Political scientists study the origin, development, and operation of political systems and public policy. They conduct research on a wide range of subjects, such as relations between the United States and other countries, the institutions and political life of nations, the politics of small towns or major metropolises, and the decisions of the U.S. Supreme Court. Studying topics such as public opinion, political decision making, ideology, and public policy, they analyze the structure and operation of governments, as well as various political entities. Depending on the topic, a political scientist might conduct a public-opinion survey, analyze election results or public documents, or interview public officials.

Watch Juan describe what it meant for him to be part of the team that represented the United States of America during a meeting with the President of Columbia.

Work Environment

Most political scientists have regular hours. Generally working behind a desk, either alone or in collaboration with other social scientists, they read and write research articles or reports. Many experience the pressures of writing and publishing, as well as those associated with deadlines and tight schedules. Sometimes they must work overtime, for which they are usually not compensated. Political scientists often work as an integral part of a research team. Travel may be necessary to collect information or attend meetings. Social scientists on foreign assignment must adjust to unfamiliar cultures, climates, and languages.

Political scientists employed by colleges and universities usually have flexible work schedules, often dividing their time among teaching, research, writing, consulting, and administrative responsibilities. Those who teach in these settings are classified as postsecondary teachers.

Training, Other Qualifications

The educational attainment of political scientists is among the highest of all occupations, with most positions requiring a master’s or a PhD degree.

Many social science students also benefit from internships or field experience. Numerous local museums, historical societies, government agencies, non-profit, and other organizations offer internships or volunteer research opportunities.

Education and Training

Graduates with master’s degrees in applied specialties are usually qualified for positions outside of colleges and universities, although requirements vary by field. A PhD degree may be required for higher-level positions. Bachelor’s degree holders have limited opportunities and do not qualify for most of the occupations discussed above. A bachelor’s degree does, however, provide a suitable background for many different kinds of entry-level jobs in related occupations, such as research assistant, writer, management trainee, or market analyst.

Other Qualifications

Political scientists need excellent written and oral communication skills to report research findings and to collaborate on research. Successful social scientists also need intellectual curiosity and creativity because they constantly seek new information about people, things, and ideas. The ability to think logically and methodically is also essential to analyze complicated issues, such as the relative merits of various forms of government. Objectivity, an open mind, and systematic work habits are important in all kinds of social science research. Perseverance, too, is often necessary.

On the Job

• Teach political science.
• Disseminate research results through academic publications, written reports, or public presentations.
• Identify issues for research and analysis.
• Develop and test theories, using information from interviews, newspapers, periodicals, case law, historical papers, polls, and/or statistical sources.
• Maintain current knowledge of government policy decisions.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret data such as election results and public opinion surveys; report on findings, recommendations, and conclusions.
• Interpret and analyze policies, public issues, legislation, and/or the operations of governments, businesses, and organizations.
• Evaluate programs and policies, and make related recommendations to institutions and organizations.
• Write drafts of legislative proposals, and prepare speeches, correspondence, and policy papers for governmental use.
• Forecast political, economic, and social trends.
• Consult with and advise government officials, civic bodies, research agencies, the media, political parties, and others concerned with political issues.
• Provide media commentary and/or criticism related to public policy and political issues and events.

Source: BLS

Companies That Hire Political Scientists

• Central Intelligence Agency
• RAND
• United States Department of State

Ask Questions

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Sources

• BLS. (2009). Occupational Outlook Handbook (OOH), 2008-09 Edition, Bureau of Labor Statistics. Retrieved May 1, 2009, from http://www.bls.gov/oco/
• O*Net Online. (2009). National Center for O*Net Development. Retrieved May 1, 2009, from http://online.onetcenter.org/
• The Johns Hopkins University. (2009). Exploring Career Options: Foreign Service. Cogito.org. Retrieved October 28, 2009, from http://www.cogito.org/Interviews/InterviewsDetail.aspx?ContentID=115
• YouTube; User: an8828btr. (2008, April 29). Why I am Interested in Political Science. Retrieved October 28, 2009, from http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FOzNBl_0Ulg
• United States Department of State. (n.d.). Juan: Civil Service. Retrieved October 28, 2009, from http://careers.state.gov/resources/videos/video-juan.html

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