Political Scientists
Political scientists study the origin, development, and operation of political systems.
Is political scientists a good career?
It scores 25/100 and ranks #217 of 825 occupations on pay, growth, employment and openings. Here's what the federal data says, with no editorializing.
Advantages
- Pays well above the U.S. median wage ($142,080 vs $61,390)
Possible tradeoffs
- Employment is projected to decline (-3.1% through 2034)
- Typically requires a master's degree
What political scientists earn
Wages: BLS OEWS May 2025Pay is a range, not a number. Half of U.S. political scientists earn between $114,030 and $174,180 a year.
Best-paying states
Best-paying metros
Strongest employment concentration
Live political scientists jobs
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- Typical education
- Master's degree
- Work experience
- None
- On-the-job training
- None
- Outlook
- Employment is projected to grow decline through 2034.
Education
Political scientists typically need a master’s degree to enter the occupation. Relevant master’s degree programs include fields such as political science, public administration, and public policy. These programs often have courses in other disciplines, such as psychology and economics, as well as in government, policy, and politics.
Employers may consider candidates who have a bachelor’s degree in political science for certain entry-level positions, such as with political campaigns or in government. Some employers prefer that political scientist candidates have a Ph.D., which requires several years of study beyond a bachelor’s degree.
Prospective political scientists may benefit from participating in internship or volunteer opportunities while in school. These experiences may offer students a chance to develop the analytical, research, and other skills they need to be successful.
Important qualities
Adaptability. Political scientists must be able to adjust their research methods as current events develop.
Communication skills. Political scientists must be able to explain their findings to a variety of audiences.
Creativity. Political scientists must continually explore new ideas, stay current on political subjects, and come up with new ways to address issues.
Critical-thinking skills. Political scientists must be able to draw logical conclusions from the data and information they collect, analyze, and interpret.
Decision-making skills. Political scientists need to balance a variety of objectives and choose appropriate research methods for the topics they study.
Detail oriented. Political scientists need to be precise in evaluating and recording the results of their research.
Interpersonal skills. Political scientists may collaborate with other researchers when writing reports or giving presentations.
Related occupations
How much do political scientists make?
The national median wage is $142,080 a year, with the middle half earning between $114,030 and $174,180 (BLS OEWS May 2025).
Is political scientists a good career?
On the Jobs.best index it scores 25 of 100 and ranks #217 of 825 occupations, weighing pay, growth, employment and openings. Employment is projected to change -3.1% through 2034.
What education do you need to become a political scientist?
The typical entry-level education is master's degree.
Where do political scientists earn the most?
Among states, Maryland pays the highest median ($153,380). Local pay for every state and metro is below.