Political Science Degree Guide: 2025 Costs, Requirements & Job Opportunities

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Political science majors possess a unique skill set capable of navigating the intricate complexities between public and private organizations. A political science degree provides every student with exceptional analytical skills and is a good career choice for those who are keen on joining the public sector.

The demands of a political science degree, however, might not appeal to every incoming higher education student. In most instances, political science degree majors are interested in pursuing public sector positions. These individuals typically have a deep interest in the affairs of the state, government, and international relations.

The life of a political scientist is given to public service, deep research, engagement with international collaborators, in addition to the necessity of wielding the quantitative tools of the discipline. In this article, we will walk you through the definition of political science degree, requirements, costs, and occupational outlook, among others.

Political Science Degree Table of Contents

• What is a Political Science Degree?
• What are the Core Courses in a Political Science Degree?
• Cost of Political Science Degree
• Political Science Degree Jobs
• Types of Degrees in Political Science
• Political Science Degree Requirements
• What to Look for in a Political Science Program
• How can internships and networking amplify your political science career prospects?
• How can integrating criminal justice studies benefit your political science career prospects?
• How can integrating criminology studies enhance my political science career prospects?
• Can forensic science methods advance your political science career?
• How do political science and criminal justice fields compare in terms of career outcomes?
• Can a Political Science Degree Open Doors to Law Enforcement and Public Security Roles?
• Majors Related to Political Science
• How can specialized certifications and accelerated degrees enhance your political science career?
• What are the emerging trends in political science education and career opportunities?
• Importance of Online Political Science Degrees in Modern Education

What is a Political Science Degree?

In the matter of political science definition, it is the systematic exploration of forces that constitute a polity, from governments, political parties, political factions, and interest groups at the local, state, national, and international levels. At the core of this discipline is the need to determine how these forces dynamically change their behavior and strategies over time in order to gain power.

As a distinct scientific discipline, political science uses the descriptive model in order to analyze, assess, and predict the interplay of power groups within the scope of its study (Annual Reviews, 2003). This is a departure from the original conception of political science along the normative lines, which was at its ascendancy among political thinkers and philosophers dating back to ancient times (Almond, G. A., 1966).

Modern political scientists have to embrace a multidisciplinary approach, using ideas from psychology, economics, law, public policy, and foreign relations to determine how political entities try to gain voice and power.

Political scientists are expected to be well-grounded in the classical thought that historically defined it. From there, they would have to have a deep understanding of the political ideas, ideologies, policies, institutions, processes, strategies, and behavior behind political groups, classes, diplomacy, law, government, and war. As such, it encompasses the psychological, cultural, and societal factors that mutually influence the operation of the whole organic polity.

What can you do with a political science degree?

A political science degree can lead you down several career paths. Most of these paths are along local, state, national, and international power corridors where similarly oriented people can be seen determining the fate of their respective spheres of influence via legislation, executive orders, legal reviews, and submission of position or policy papers. Steeped in the traditions of history, comparative foreign policy, political theories, policy concepts, and principles of governance, political scientists are well equipped to contribute to high-impact research involving data management, assume positions of political influence, or lead in the lectures and discussions of a formal academic setting.

What are the Core Courses in a Political Science Degree?

Political science degrees cover diverse subjects that create a strong foundation for understanding political systems, public policies, and international dynamics. These core courses equip students with the analytical and critical thinking skills necessary for various career paths in politics, law, and public administration. Here are some essential courses typically included in political science programs:

• Introduction to Political Theory: This foundational course introduces students to political concepts like justice, liberty, and power. Students study prominent theorists to learn how these ideas shape political ideologies and systems.
• International Relations: Focused on global affairs, this course examines diplomacy, foreign policies, and international organizations. Students explore global conflicts and cooperation, gaining insight into the workings of international politics.
• Comparative Politics: In this course, students analyze different political systems worldwide. They compare governmental structures, political behaviors, and policy approaches across various countries, offering a broader understanding of global politics.
• Public Policy and Administration: This course delves into policy-making processes, from creation to implementation. Students study how policies impact society and learn about the role of public administration in managing public programs effectively.
• Research Methods in Political Science: This course Emphasizes research techniques and introduces students to qualitative and quantitative methods used in political science. Students learn data analysis and empirical research skills, preparing them to conduct studies and evaluate political data.

Cost of Political Science Degree

How much does it cost to get a political science degree?

A four-year bachelor’s degree in political science can cost anywhere from $10,560 for public in-state colleges to $37,650 for private schools. A master’s degree starts at $8,950 on average for in-state students and goes for as much as $42,030 for private colleges. A doctoral degree, meanwhile, may cost $11,440 for students residing in the state and rises to $25,0083 for out-of-state students. Private schools charge, on average, $44,910.

The figures cover only political science degree tuition and related fees. If you add the room, board, and other costs, the figures will consequently go higher.

Is a degree in political science worth it?

A degree in political science is absolutely worth it. This is more so if you are drawn to participating in the well-being of humanity in general and your locality in particular. This is through work as an elected official, appointed seat, member of a policy advocacy organization, and the like.

In many instances, political scientists consider the high-stake relevance of their work more decisive than monetary considerations, though money comes with the territory. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates, for example, that political scientists are among the highest-earning professionals anywhere, with median annual wages of $122,510 in 2021.

Contributing to decisive, meaningful, and insightful policymaking is a huge reward for most political scientists. Wary of political strife that typically undermine weak states, they venture into research that could contribute to healthy national development.

In recent times, for example, this is clearly demonstrated by research into the U.S. population’s perception of government effectivity in dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic. Research into that territory is crucial in informing national, federal, and local executives in reaching out to the population and implementing actions for the interest of all. As a side note, it weakens the power base of fake news propagandists who constantly threaten to undermine the people’s trust of their political leaders.

“The Public’s Perception of Government Officials’ Communication in the Wake of the COVID-19 Pandemic" by Shaniece Bickham and Diane Francis (2021) surveyed adult online respondents regarding credibility perceptions and trust across government levels (local, state, and federal). “A comparison of overall response success among the three government levels revealed that about 70% of respondents found the local response to be extremely adequate or  somewhat adequate and 75.53% agreed that the state response  as extremely adequate or somewhat adequate. In terms of the federal  level, about 71% of the respondents found the response to be extremely inadequate or somewhat inadequate. Overall, most of the survey respondents (68.57%) agreed that their trust in government prior to the stay-at-home order influenced their credibility perceptions about the information they received about the COVID-19 pandemic. Contrarily, over half of the respondents (51.83%) agreed that they continue to trust the government across levels to provide necessary information about public health issues."

Why is this study important? The authors of the Sage Journals study themselves stated it effectively: “Results from the study showed that trust in government prior to a crisis played a significant role in whether the public would deem information credible during the said crisis….  The findings of this study contributed to advancing SCCT because if government officials can have positive relationships in place with target audiences at the onset  of a crisis as SCCT posits, they will be able to shift their primary focus to crisis management."

This kind of study gives you a distinct taste of what awaits you at the end of your studies. There is financial rewards in the discipline, yes, but if contributing to bettering political life appeals to you, then this matters more.

Political Science Degree Jobs

There are a number of political science degree jobs to look forward to after college. Graduates can choose from public work in government institutions, nongovernmental organizations, political foundations, research organizations, high-profile think tanks, rights advocacy groups, and foreign service.

Is political science in high demand?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, political scientists can look forward to a 6% average employment rate of their profession from 2019 to 2029 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). This is 2% above the national average growth rate expected of all professions that stands at 4%.

The 6% average growth rate is equivalent to 7,400 open positions by 2029. In terms of employment by industry, the distribution is shown by the chart below.

What jobs can you get with a political science degree?

• Political Scientist. The traditional career path of graduates of a political science degree. In this job role, you are expected to analyze current events, policy proclamations, and other related issues. You can collect public opinions on all of these by conducting surveys and develop and test political theories based on your findings. You are also expected to analyze international affairs and present your findings to public and private stakeholders.
• Campaign Director. A campaign director (or campaign manager) oversees a political candidate’s campaign for public office. In this capacity, you oversee key operations like strategizing, fundraising, political advertising, polling, and other activities to rally support and vote for the political candidate you are working for. You will need to bring along a retinue of political consultants, volunteers, staffers, and campaign management tools to the table to get the win for your candidate.
• City Administrator. As a city administrator, you work for the government under the authority and direction of the mayor. In this capacity, you are expected to monitor, coordinate, and supervise the activities and functions of the office. You are also authorized to develop and implement internal policies and procedures around the administrative activities of the city, evaluate city employees, and ensure to take the steps required to improve city administration operations.
• Diplomat. Put briefly, diplomats represent the interest of their nations in foreign lands. They are charged to protect their country, citizens, repair relationships between their country and other nations, and create lasting bonds with the objective of shaping sound foreign policy. Diplomats are expected to understand international cultures, peoples, and connect with the international community at large.
• Policy Analyst. Policy analysts review the efficacy of existing policies and propose new programs and legislation to amend and improve them. They raise public awareness of the consequences of policies, influencing political and social events in the process. Their work entails conducting thorough research to properly examine current policies, evaluating the effects of proposed legislation, and publishing their findings.

What kind of salary can I earn with a political science degree?

Occupations awaiting graduates of political science degrees, as well as public relations major programs, are among the prestigious and the most lucrative out there, both for entry-level and high-level ones. The median annual wage for political scientists, for example, was $122,510 in May 2021 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022).  The lowest 10% earned around $61,480, which is notably higher than the average for all occupations at $45,760. The highest 10% earned $172,490, which is among the highest for all occupations.

Types of Degrees in Political Science

As with standard disciplines, political science degree types range from an associate degree, a full bachelor’s degree, and the graduate-level master’s and doctoral degrees. The courses on offer and time it takes to finish each varies for each one.

What kinds of political science degrees are there?

1. Associate Degree in Political Science

Average time to complete: 2 years

An associate degree in political science introduces you to the basic concept of government and its functions. Further on, it expands to the subject of formal laws and the workings of ruling institutions. The objective is to give you a good idea of how political forces influence one another.

The associate degree in political science also gives you a good picture of political lobbying, which is a defining characteristic of modern democracies. As well, it will give you a good roundup of the types of political organizations and the cultures that conceived them.

Expect to learn about the history and evolution of governmental rule, along with general education units, which give you the flexibility to pursue a formal bachelor’s degree later if you decide to pursue it. You can avail of an associate degree in political science from community colleges, which gives you more freedom to choose your school.

Entry-level jobs: lobbyist, consultant, legislative aide, high school teacher

2. Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science

Average time to complete: 4 years

The bachelor of political science degree combines introductory concepts and the standard courses in the world of government, politics, public policy, international relations, and legal fields. To pass the degree program, you are expected to complete the 120 credits required.

As a student of a bachelor of the political science degree program, you are expected to acquire insights into the emergence of complex global political dynamics. Race relations. social justice movements, and foreign policy are key topics that you should have a solid grasp of.

The bachelor’s degree program in political science serves as your formal stepping stone to a master’s or Ph.D.  degree in political science.

Entry-level jobs: policy analyst, public relations specialist, social media manager, research analyst, political consultant, political campaign staff

3. Master’s Degree in Political Science

Average time to complete: 1-2 years

A master’s degree allows you to pursue a specific area that specially interests you. By narrowing down your focus, you are expected to gain mastery of the subject and publish your findings for wider dissemination.

Under the program, you can choose from many areas to master. Among them are international relations, contemporary thought, policy impact, law, and ethics. If you intend to get into law school, a master of political science degree should go well with your undergrad qualifications.

As a graduate degree program, a master in political science degree should have you exploring how the balance of power works among the executive, judicial, and legislative branches of government. It will let you delve intimately into the ways governments exercise their power, how they react to social movements, and the grounds for power and authority among modern countries.

High-level positions: government affairs director, campaign director, judicial administrator, diplomat, political scientist, urban policy planner

4. Ph.D. in Political Science

Average time to complete: 2 years

This program is the typical route for students who see themselves immersing and thriving in the academe. Graduates can expect to receive the proper credentials to teach classes on government and politics at the college level.

The Ph.D. typically requires advanced coursework that involves the submission of a book-length dissertation, teaching programs, and comprehensive examinations. Evidently, these suit students who are inherently leaning on classic scholarship and possess an affinity for the discipline.

Doctors in political science can be expected to make a lifelong dedication to writing about the dynamics at play among the power factions of a polity. In the process, they lend insights and deeper analysis through years of study and introspection.

High-level positions: political scientists, professor, college/university director, dean, research fellow

Political Science Degree Requirements

In general, admission to a political science degree program requires candidates to have finished high school or GED. With those, they must pass the admissions test. Selective colleges and universities may also require a recommendation letter, a minimum GPA, and additional coursework in specific subjects. To be sure, inquire with the school that you have in mind so you can prepare the political science degree prerequisites beforehand.

Admission Requirements

Application

This is typically an online application. You must provide information about your educational history and relevant experience, where applicable. You might want to check out Common App, which lets you complete one application to apply to more than 700 colleges.

Proof of Graduation

This could be in the form of a high school diploma, transcript of records, or a letter from a school official using the school letterhead stationery. Make sure that the details are correct, including your name and date of graduation or completion. These papers are typically obtained from the office of the school’s registrar.

Transcript

Most colleges only require your high school transcript, which you could request from your high school registrar’s office as noted. When requesting this official document, you should indicate if it’s a final version of your transcript, as it could take some time for secondary academic institutions to complete all the graduates’ transcripts for an academic year.

Coursework

Colleges and universities have different core course requirements, so make it a point to verify this with the school you intend to enroll in. Some schools require incoming freshmen to pick from a list of courses in order to prepare them adequately for their major. Additional courses are also typically counted toward the major, including microeconomics or macroeconomics, history, and statistics.

Other Requirements

Mind, too, that the more selective colleges would ask for stronger high school academic performance than indicated by the core coursework. These might be in the form of Honors courses, IB, and Advanced Placement.

Skill Requirements

Research Skills

Much like other social science majors, political science degree skills are rooted heavily in research to contribute to the discipline and provide insights to policymakers. Students and graduates of political science must possess a sharp eye and nose for interesting or crucial research leads. They are expected to pursue them with dedication and professionalism, getting in-depth with the available information and applying critical thought and methodologies to turn them into useful additions to the human body of knowledge.

Communication Skills

Political scientists are expected to contribute to professional scientific publications, speak in public, and engage with various professionals and dignitaries all over the world. For these reasons, political science degree majors must hone their writing and public speaking skills, as well as properly read people’s body language and expressions. In the field of diplomacy, these skills are very critical.

Data Analysis Skills

Data analysis skills come to bear when political scientists have to face mountains of data as most professionals do nowadays. Population sampling, extensive exit polls, and other largescale surveys require political scientists to be comfortable with mathematical and statistical skills. All of these contribute to sound data analysis skills.

What to Look For in a Political Science Program

A well-charted political science degree would have you eye a specific field to specialize in. Your professional credentials would improve tremendously if you show mastery of a single line of inquiry, with support from closely related fields. In political science, you are looking at a range of possibilities from various areas of research.

Available Specializations

For bad or for good, the world is run by people who occupy national and international seats of power. You will often read or hear that the world is going that way or this way. Amidst these, you might discover that world concerns sing to you. If that is the case, you will find that the political advocacy you are rooting for is best served by the discipline that is specifically structured to approach this kind of calling. If you go further, you will see that advocacy covers fields that are critically connected to one another. In most cases, you will find the areas connect to the following specializations in the discipline (Political Science Major Tips, 2014):

1. Political Economy and Development
2. Political Analysis
3. International Relations
4. American Politics
5. Comparative Politics
6. Political Theory
7. Political Methodology
8. Political Leadership and Reform
9. Political Identities and Allegiances
10. Democracy and Law

Accreditation

Academic political science degree programs and international relations do not currently require any professional or programmatic accreditation. Their graduate-level counterparts, however, are regionally accredited. you can check out the CHEA website or the ED’s Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs to verify that the institution you are considering is properly accredited or not.

Student-Teacher Ratio

It’s long been established that lower student-teacher ratios allow students to perform better on many metrics (Spallino, J., 2016). With fewer students, educators have more opportunities to attend to the individual needs of students, even allowing for one-on-one sessions.

In the United States, the average student-teacher ratio is 14.41 students per teacher. That is not so bad, hovering around the best numbers seen among private schools 12.3 students for four-year degree programs. Two-year programs at public schools average 10.8 students per class, which is better than other degree programs.

Financial Aid Options

You should inquire about financial aid and scholarship from the school you are considering to take your political science degree. Many colleges and universities offer these to students with varying types of qualifications. For ones outside your target school’s offering, consider the following programs:

1. Enid Hall Griswold Memorial Scholarship Package: $5,000 Eligibility: you must be enrolled in a junior or senior in an accredited college or university pursuing a major in political science, economics, government, or history. Requirement: Contact the National Vice Chairman for the Enid Hall Griswold Memorial Scholarship: EnidHallMemorialScholarship@NSDAR.org
2. Crown Castle Opportunity Scholarship Program Package: $10,000 each ($250,000 total) Eligibility:  Awarded to 25 African-American/Black college students who “exhibit determination, integrity, and perseverance in overcoming adversity." (UNCF, n.d.) The program is open to students currently classified as college juniors from all academic majors, with priority given to applicants with majors that position them to apply to Crown Castle-led internship and rotational programs (including political science and pre-law).
3. Requirement: Applications must be submitted online by the due date, and must include (1)A current academic transcript; (2)A 1-page personal statement; (3) One letter of recommendation from a faculty member or administrator.

How can internships and networking amplify your political science career prospects?

Robust internship programs and structured networking opportunities offer a critical extension to academic learning, equipping students with practical insights and direct industry exposure. By engaging in real-world experiences, candidates can refine their research and policy analysis skills while establishing professional relationships with established practitioners. These interactions often serve as a gateway to future roles and enhance preparedness for competitive markets, as evidenced by the progression into political science degree jobs. Furthermore, well-facilitated mentorship programs and alumni networks contribute to leadership development and provide ongoing career guidance, ensuring that graduates are well-positioned for long-term success in the evolving public and private sectors.

How can integrating criminal justice studies benefit your political science career prospects?

An interdisciplinary approach that includes criminal justice studies equips political science graduates with a practical framework to analyze legal systems, enforce policy, and understand the dynamics of law enforcement. Exploring complementary coursework in criminal justice can enhance your ability to evaluate governance from both legislative and operational perspectives, fostering innovative strategies for conflict resolution and policy implementation. For a cost-effective avenue to broaden your expertise, consider reviewing our article on the cheapest online criminal justice degrees.

How can integrating criminology studies enhance my political science career prospects?

Exploring the intersection between political science and criminology can provide a competitive edge by combining policy analysis with insights into criminal behavior and law enforcement frameworks. This interdisciplinary approach fosters a deeper understanding of how legislative changes impact various criminal justice outcomes, allowing professionals to develop more informed strategies and policies. Additionally, graduates who merge these fields may discover expanded career opportunities, such as working in regulatory agencies or consulting on public safety reforms, further supported by roles like jobs in criminology.

Can forensic science methods advance your political science career?

Integrating forensic science techniques can provide political science professionals with enhanced methodologies for data verification and evidence-based policy analysis. This interdisciplinary approach supports the development of robust investigative skills, particularly useful in assessing electoral integrity, public corruption, and policy impact. By supplementing traditional political research with forensic insights, you can refine analytical precision and strengthen the credibility of your conclusions. For those interested in acquiring these complementary skills, exploring the cheapest online master's in forensic science can offer a targeted pathway to augment your expertise.

How do political science and criminal justice fields compare in terms of career outcomes?

A comparative analysis reveals that while political science graduates typically pursue roles in policy analysis, government affairs, and international relations, professionals in criminal justice often focus on specialized positions in law enforcement and public safety. Evaluating job stability, earning potential, and growth prospects across these fields can help candidates identify pathways that best align with their career ambitions. This interdisciplinary perspective encourages exploring strategies that leverage public policy expertise alongside operational insights, thereby broadening the spectrum of professional opportunities. For further insights into competitive financial prospects, review the best paying criminal justice jobs.

Can a Political Science Degree Open Doors to Law Enforcement and Public Security Roles?

A political science degree equips graduates with an in-depth understanding of governmental systems and regulatory frameworks that are highly relevant to law enforcement and public security roles. By applying analytical reasoning, research expertise, and communication skills acquired during their studies, graduates can transition into specialized areas outside traditional political trajectories. For instance, exploring pathways in court security or regulatory enforcement may prove advantageous, while targeted training can complement academic credentials. In some cases, professionals may consider pursuing roles in precinct or courtroom management; for example, research on how do you become a bailiff demonstrates how practical law enforcement functions can benefit from a robust political science background. This interdisciplinary approach not only enhances career prospects but also broadens the scope of opportunities in sectors that value both policy analysis and operational expertise.

Majors Related to Political Science

1. Public Administration
2. Economics
3. Sociology
4. Anthropology
5. Archaeology
6. Public Policy

How can specialized certifications and accelerated degrees enhance your political science career?

In today's competitive landscape, political science professionals increasingly benefit from targeted certifications and accelerated academic programs that complement traditional degrees. These specialized credentials provide rigorous training in areas such as data analytics, policy evaluation, and strategic communication, enabling graduates to bridge the gap between theoretical expertise and practical application. Programs designed for swift progression, including the fastest masters degree, offer a streamlined path to advanced qualifications while catering to the demands of busy professionals. By embracing these opportunities, individuals can gain a competitive edge, expand their professional networks, and better align their skill sets with evolving industry requirements.

What are the emerging trends in political science education and career opportunities?

In recent years, the field of Political Science has seen several emerging trends that shape both the educational experience and career opportunities for graduates. One of the most significant trends is the increasing integration of data analysis and digital tools into political science programs. With the rise of big data and technology in politics, students are now expected to learn how to analyze voting patterns, public opinion, and political behavior using advanced software tools. As a result, many Political Science degrees now offer specialized courses in data science, political analytics, and GIS mapping, equipping graduates with the skills needed for careers in political consulting, campaign management, and public policy research.

Another key trend is the growing focus on global politics and international relations. As global issues such as climate change, immigration, and geopolitical tensions become increasingly interconnected, political science programs are adapting to prepare students for careers that span national borders. Students may have the option to specialize in international law, global diplomacy, or human rights, opening doors to careers in international organizations, NGOs, and multinational corporations.

Finally, online and hybrid learning models have become more prevalent in political science education, allowing students to pursue their degrees in a flexible and cost-effective way. Many universities and cheap online colleges now offer online political science degrees that can be completed entirely online or through a hybrid model, providing students with the flexibility to balance their studies with work and other commitments. This trend has made political science education more accessible to a wider range of students, including those with geographic or scheduling constraints.

These trends not only reflect changes in the political landscape but also align with evolving job market demands. Graduates with a political science degree are increasingly expected to possess both traditional analytical skills and modern technical expertise, making it a more dynamic and versatile field for those seeking to shape the future of politics and public policy.

Importance of Online Political Science Degrees in Modern Education

In today’s fast-paced and interconnected world, the relevance of online education has grown exponentially, offering an accessible and flexible alternative to traditional classroom learning. The field of political science is no exception, where remote learning options have emerged to accommodate diverse learner needs. Political science online degrees provide students with the opportunity to gain a comprehensive understanding of critical topics such as governance, public policy, and international relations without the constraints of geographical limitations or rigid schedules.

These programs often incorporate modern technologies that enhance student engagement and learning outcomes, from interactive simulation tools for policy development to virtual forums for international political discourse. Importantly, online political science degrees cater to both working professionals looking to upskill and fresh graduates aiming for a competitive edge. This format enables learners to balance their academic pursuits with professional or personal commitments, making it an increasingly popular choice in the educational landscape.

For prospective students, choosing the right online program is crucial. Platforms like political science online degrees can guide you in identifying the best programs that align with your career goals while ensuring accreditation and academic rigor. By leveraging the flexibility and resources provided by online political science education, students can position themselves to thrive in leadership, advocacy, and analytical roles in both local and global arenas.

Does a political science degree appeal to you?

Among the disciplines offered by colleges and universities worldwide, some require a personal assessment and deep introspection. A political science degree is among them. The discipline thrusts you into a world where every idea matters, especially in the current state of the world.

The quantitative methodology has gained solid ground in the discipline throughout the years. It reflects the fact that policymakers now must base political decisions on hard data. Musings are good but don’t expect to make a dent in power corridors if you don’t have the numbers to back them. The world needs solutions that work, not appear beautiful on paper.

Whether you are working directly for the government, policy think tanks, your research output will soon find its way to public consciousness. When this happens, you must be prepared to discuss or defend your views against fellow practitioners in the field and those whose lives will be affected by your output.

In brief, a political science degree can throw you into the limelight in an instant. This is a good thing if you intend to occupy positions of power or want your voice to be heard. The world always needs a new approach to managing this planet, its people, and its resources.

Key Insights

• Diverse Career Paths: Political science majors can pursue various careers in government, non-profits, international organizations, academia, and private sector roles such as policy analysis, campaign management, and diplomacy.
• Growing Employment Opportunities: The demand for political scientists is expected to grow by 6% from 2019 to 2029, which is higher than the national average for all occupations. This growth is driven by the need for expertise in policy development, political analysis, and international relations.
• High Earning Potential: Political scientists are among the highest-paid professionals in social sciences, with a median annual wage of $122,510 in 2021. Salaries can vary widely based on experience, education, and specific job roles.
• Comprehensive Skill Set: A political science degree equips students with analytical skills, research abilities, and communication skills necessary for analyzing political systems, conducting research, and presenting findings.
• Multidisciplinary Approach: The field integrates concepts from psychology, economics, law, public policy, and international relations, providing a well-rounded understanding of political dynamics and governance.
• Educational Pathways: Political science degrees range from associate to doctoral levels, with each level offering different career opportunities and areas of specialization. Advanced degrees provide deeper expertise and open doors to higher-level positions.
• Financial Aid Availability: Various scholarships and financial aid options are available for political science students, including the Enid Hall Griswold Memorial Scholarship and the Crown Castle Opportunity Scholarship Program.
• Impactful Work: Political science professionals contribute to meaningful policymaking, research, and advocacy that influence public policies, improve governance, and address societal issues.

FAQ

1. What is a political science degree? A political science degree involves the systematic study of political systems, behavior, and institutions. It covers various areas such as government functions, political theories, international relations, and public policies. The degree prepares students for careers in government, research, advocacy, and education.
2. How much does it cost to get a political science degree? The cost of a political science degree varies by institution and degree level. A four-year bachelor's degree can range from $10,560 for public in-state colleges to $37,650 for private schools. A master's degree can start at $8,950 for in-state students and go up to $42,030 for private colleges. Doctoral programs may cost between $11,440 and $44,910.
3. What can you do with a political science degree? Graduates can pursue careers as political scientists, campaign directors, city administrators, diplomats, policy analysts, and more. They can work in government agencies, non-profit organizations, international bodies, research institutions, and academic settings.
4. Is a political science degree worth it? Yes, a political science degree is worth it for those interested in public service, policy development, and international relations. The degree offers diverse career opportunities, high earning potential, and the ability to make significant contributions to society.
5. What are the requirements to get into a political science degree program? Requirements generally include a high school diploma or GED, passing an admissions test, and providing transcripts. Selective schools may also require recommendation letters, a minimum GPA, and additional coursework in specific subjects. Specific requirements can vary by institution.
6. What skills do political science majors need? Key skills include research abilities, communication skills, data analysis, critical thinking, and an understanding of political systems and theories. These skills are essential for conducting research, analyzing policies, and effectively communicating findings.
7. What financial aid options are available for political science students? Financial aid options include scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs. Notable scholarships for political science students include the Enid Hall Griswold Memorial Scholarship and the Crown Castle Opportunity Scholarship Program.
8. What are the career prospects for political science graduates? Career prospects are strong, with opportunities in government, non-profits, international organizations, academia, and private sector roles. The demand for political scientists is expected to grow, offering stable and rewarding career paths.
9. How long does it take to complete a political science degree? An associate degree typically takes 2 years, a bachelor's degree 4 years, a master's degree 1-2 years, and a doctoral degree about 2 additional years after completing a master's degree. The duration can vary based on the program and the student's pace.
10. What should I look for in a political science program? Consider factors such as available specializations, accreditation, student-teacher ratio, faculty expertise, and financial aid options. Look for programs that align with your career goals and offer opportunities for research, internships, and practical experience.

References:

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3. Bickham, S. B., & Francis, D. B. (2021, April). The public’s perceptions of government officials’ communication in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. SAGE Journals.
4. Crown castle opportunity scholarship program 2020. (n.d.). UNCF.
5. Experimental methods in political science. (2003, November 28). Annual Reviews.
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