What Does a Political Scientist Do?

Political science is a social science discipline that deals with systems of governance, political activities, and the analysis of political behavior.  

If you are interested in becoming a political scientist this article is for you. Here we will elaborate on what does a political scientist do, how you can become one, and so much more. 

What Is a Political Scientist?

A political scientist is a multitasker as they do a little bit of everything. They are researchers, analysts, and forecasters. They tackle a particular issue, collect data, process it, and then develop a helpful solution.

Political scientists use their expertise to understand how laws and policies affect government, citizens, and business. However, it’s essential to know that the field of politics tends to be objective and systematic. This is not to say that a political scientist can’t be subjective and offer opinions, but the area requires that their conclusions are based on facts and evidence.

In other words, political scientists analyze the structure and theory of government and pursue practical solutions to political issues.

What Does a Political Scientist Do?

Political scientists conduct in-depth studies regarding the origin or development of political systems. They analyze the federal government structure; utilize surveys, public polls, election results, economic data, and other documents to conclude and predict new policies.

They work as policy analysts for the government, political groups, and labor unions. Political scientists provide helpful information and analysis after researching the effects of government policies on a specific region or population.

What are the responsibilities of a political scientist?

Some responsibilities of a political scientist include:

• Research political subjects (foreign relations, U.S. political system)
• Collect and analyze data from public sources like surveys, polls, and election results
• Create and test political theories
• Predict political, economic, and social trends
• Submit research results by publishing articles and giving presentations
• Teach political science
• Provide advice to government officials, research agencies, civic bodies, political parties, and the media
• Prepare legislative proposals for the government
• Do a media commentary about political problems and public policies

In addition to these duties, political scientists often use qualitative methods in their research when gathering information from various sources. For example, they can rely on historical documents to analyze former government structures and policies.

However, they also use quantitative methods when developing and researching theories. For example, they usually analyze voter registration data when they need to identify voting patterns.

With research and analyses, political scientists concentrate on five main areas:

• National politics (American politics) – the study of the political processes in the U.S.; research and analyze the strategies, effects, and results of state and local governments, national institutions, etc.
• Comparative politics – their expertise is comparing political systems outside of the U.S.
• Public policy – they focus on the development and effects of laws and public policies in the U.S. and abroad.
• Political theory – they research and analyze political ideologies (equality, justice, rights).
• International relations – they research and analyze the political relations between nations, meaning how diplomacy, international policy, and conflict resolution work across countries.

5 Skills Political Scientists Need

There are a few skills that every political scientists needs to have to be successful. To be a qualified political scientist, you need: 

1. Critical thinking skills

Political scientists need to be able to think critically about complex political issues, analyze different viewpoints, and evaluate the implications of various policies and decisions. This skill allows them to approach political problems with objectivity and rigor. 

2. Analytical abilities

Political scientists must possess strong analytical skills to interpret data, identify trends, and draw meaningful conclusions. They often work with large datasets and need to be able to extract relevant information to inform their research and analysis. 

3. Research proficiency

Proficiency in research methods, including qualitative and quantitative approaches, is crucial for political scientists. They need to design research studies, collect and analyze data, and draw evidence-based conclusions to contribute to the field of political science.

4. Strong writing and communication skills

Effective communication is essential for political scientists to convey their findings and insights to policymakers, fellow researchers, and the public. Clear and persuasive writing skills are necessary for publishing research papers, reports, and articles, while strong verbal communication skills are important for presenting findings at conferences and engaging in discussions. 

5. Understanding of statistical methods

Political scientists often use statistical data to analyze voting patterns, public opinion, and policy impacts. A solid understanding of statistical methods enables them to interpret data accurately, identify correlations, and draw meaningful insights from their research. 

How Do You Become a Political Scientist?

As it happens with all careers, there are specific steps you need to follow, and getting into politics is no different. Some entry-level positions require only a bachelor’s degree, but most jobs demand higher degrees such as a master’s or a Ph.D. 

Get a bachelor’s degree

As a first step, candidates who want to pursue a career in political sciences should start with a bachelor’s degree. To meet the qualifications for acceptance into graduate school, you need to complete a major in political science. This program is crucial in preparing you with the basics of political science while also helping you with statistics, writing, and economics.

Most bachelor’s political science programs take up to four years of full-time study and 120 credits. However, other factors like if you are a part-time student, studying online affect the length of a degree.

Consider a master’s degree

Next, to complete your graduate degree, you need a master’s degree in a field related to political science. Many political scientists decide on specific roles such as public administration, public policy, international relations, and public affairs.

A master’s program for political science includes several study topics during your coursework, such as research methods, statistics, policy development, program assessment, evaluation, etc.

Apply for internships

Once you complete your undergraduate degree program, you can gain hands-on experience by applying for internships in nonprofit organizations as research assistant, campaign assistant, or in legislative and congressional offices. These roles are helpful as they help you gain valuable experience in the field of politics and build a portfolio that can boost your employment prospects in the future.

Gain experience

After you’re done with your education, it would be best if you considered paid internships, volunteer work, or any role to gain experience. you can gain hands-on experience by applying for internships in nonprofit organizations as research assistant, campaign assistant, or in legislative and congressional offices.

These roles are helpful as they help you gain valuable experience in the field of politics and build a portfolio that can boost your employment prospects in the future. If you gain experience, you’re more likely to find a job. 

Develop your research skills

Developing research skills is crucial for a political scientist because it allows for the critical analysis and interpretation of political phenomena. Research skills enable the collection and assessment of data, which is essential for drawing meaningful conclusions and contributing to the academic and practical understanding of political systems.

Stay updated on current political events

Staying updated on current political events provides insight into the ever-changing dynamics of politics. This helps political scientists to contextualize their research, understand the impact of recent developments, and adapt their analyses and interpretations to reflect the current state of affairs. 

Build your professional network

Political scientists need collaboration, knowledge sharing, and access to diverse perspectives. Networking provides opportunities for engaging with other professionals in the field, staying informed about new research, and establishing potential research partnerships or career opportunities.

Consider a PhD

If you want to advance your education, you can also pursue a Ph.D. This is especially important if you’re looking to pursue a career as a professor at the university level. Apart from this, you can also find high-level career opportunities in political consulting and national government, but a Ph.D. isn’t necessary unless you’re working in academia.

What Is the Job Outlook and Salary of a Political Scientist?

Considering the effort they put into research, policies, and such, it makes sense that political science jobs have high salaries. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average median pay for a political scientist is $132,350 per year, which is estimated to be $63.63 per hour.

On average, around 500 openings for political scientists are projected and the job growth is estimated to increase by up to 3% in the next ten years in the U.S. 

Conclusion

The job of a political scientist may look challenging if you’re not used to working in various workplaces. Many political scientists work in private corporations as writers, policy analysts, and commentators, while others may work with the government, television, and so on.

To be a successful political scientist, you must be curious, rational, analytical, creative, and logical. If politics are something you’re interested in, you’ll be happy to hear that you can also become a political scientist with some time and effort. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the primary role of a political scientist?

Political scientists study systems of governance, political behavior, and political theory. They analyze data, conduct research, and develop theories to understand political processes and institutions. 

What types of research do political scientists conduct?

Political scientists conduct qualitative and quantitative research, including surveys, case studies, and statistical analysis, to examine voting patterns, public opinion, policy impacts, and political ideologies.

Where do political scientists typically work?

Political scientists can work in various settings, including universities, government agencies, think tanks, non-profit organizations, and private sector firms, often focusing on policy analysis, research, or consulting. 

What skills are important for a political scientist?

Key skills every political scientist should possess include critical thinking, analytical abilities, research proficiency, strong writing and communication skills, and a solid understanding of statistical methods. 

What topics do political scientists study?

Political scientists should focus on a range of topics such as international relations, public policy, comparative politics, political theory, and electoral behavior. 

How do political scientists impact society?

By analyzing political systems and advising policymakers, political scientists help shape public policy, inform democratic processes, and contribute to the understanding of social issues. 

What educational background is typical for political scientists?

Most political scientists hold at least a master’s degree in political science or a related field, and many have PhDs, especially if they are involved in academic research or teaching. 

Can political scientists influence elections?

Yes, political scientists often study electoral systems and voter behavior, and their analyses can inform campaign strategies, political messaging, and voter outreach efforts. They stay informed by reading academic journals, following news outlets, attending conferences, and engaging in discussions within the political science community.

How do political scientists stay updated on current events?

Political scientists stay informed by reading academic journals, following news outlets, attending conferences, and engaging in discussions within the political science community. 

What career paths are available for political scientists?

Potential career paths include academic positions, policy analysis, government roles, lobbying, international relations, and roles in NGOs or advocacy organizations.