Careers in Political Science

Careers in Political Science 

Students who graduate with a degree in political science can pursue a variety of career paths. There are opportunities for government service at the federal, state, local and tribal levels. Political science is an excellent major for those interested in law school because of courses in constitutional law and political theory. The political science curriculum also includes courses in public administration, national institutions, and international politics, which can prepare students for public service on the national or international levels. There are also a wide variety of employment opportunities for political science graduates in the private sector. Interest groups and business organizations frequently employ political scientists in lobbying and governmental relations; political science graduates have also applied their skills in areas such as public relations, marketing, advertising, personnel, banking and finance.

The American Political Science Association provides more information about careers in political science and public administration. 

Graduate and Professional Schools

For many students, the political science major provides the foundation for a career that will involve further study at the graduate level. Thus, many political science graduates have gone on to do graduate work in political science or public administration. Law school is also an option that is pursued by political science graduates. The Political Science program at NSU offers a variety of courses to prepare students for graduate school. 

The Political Science faculty will be glad to discuss the opportunities that are provided by graduate education and to assist students in selecting an appropriate graduate or professional school.

NSU Political Science graduate Kimberly Teehee with President Obama in the Oval Office while serving as his Senior Policy Adviser on Native American Affairs.

Examples of Careers for Political Scientists

Local Government Positions

• Urban Planner $69,000

State Government Positions

• Regulatory Affairs Manager $111,000
• State of Ok Public Information Officer $54,000 - 60,000

Tribal Positions

• Contract Administrator: Gaming $39,000 - 54,000
• Project Analyst $67,000 - 83,000
• Outdoor Policy Coordinator $55,000 - 60,000
• S. Federal Mediation & Conciliation Service $79,000+

Federal Government Positions: usajobs.gov

• Political Affairs Officer $118,000
• Legislative Staffer $37,298
• Public Administration Manager $80,000
• Contracting Officer $70,000 - $134,000
• Foreign Service Officer Base $31,000 - 145,000
• Research Analyst $70,000
• Policy Analyst $90,000
• Auditor at the V.A. $66,000

Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)

• Non-Profit Program Coordinator: $42,200
• Journalism and Media $35,000 - 44,000
• Social Media Manager $44,800
• Campaign Specialist $61,000 - 70,000
• Public and Private School Secondary Teacher; Community College Instructor (M.A.) $52,000 +
• Attorney $80,000 +

Sources:

https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/best-jobs-for-political-science-majors

https://www.indeed.com/q-Tribal-jobs.html?vjk=679bbd59d7abc639

American Political Science Association Careers https://apsanet.org/CAREERS/An-Ideal-Liberal-Arts-Major