Career Facts - Political Science Program
What They Do:
Political Scientists study political systems and
institutions, public policy and administration. They
conduct research on public issues and political
relationships, power and resources, both within a single
country and globally. Research and analysis often
include judicial rulings, public opinion, decision-making,
ideology and public policy in an attempt to understand
decision making, exercise of power, and response to change.
Political Scientists often suggest solutions and provide
research to make better decisions on issues affecting
people, environment and business.
Political Scientists find career opportunities in:
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Non-profit organizations engaged in education, philanthropy, social and community services.
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Public service in legislative, executive and judicial agencies at the national, state and local levels of government
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For-profit enterprises in large and small businesses, finance, technology consulting and communications.
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Education through teaching at K-12 schools, colleges and universities
Related Occupations:
Related careers include teaching, law, civil service,
political appointments, journalism, social research,
political consulting, elected officials and writers.
Who Would Enjoy it:
Those individuals who
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Are interested in current affairs and issues and have strong analytical skills
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Possess advanced written and verbal communication skills and an ability to present information
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Can collect data and use both qualitative and quantitative analysis
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Possess excellent computer skills
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Have a desire to work toward solving problems for the betterment of societies
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Use objective, analytical, comparative, and historical approaches to problems
Those with strong skills in computers, communication, analysis and critical thinking, will have the best growth opportunities.
What They Earn:
Great variability exists depending on position, location
and educational achievement. Average starting salary
range for a Political Scientist averages $27,000. With
experience and higher educational achievement, salary may
increase to $65,000 or more. Entry level political
scientists may be employed as in-service trainees.
Earnings are often tied to experience and educational
attainment. The College Majors Handbook reports
college graduates with a bachelor's degree in Political
Science earn about $2,500 more annually than the average
person with a bachelor's degree.
How Many Jobs
Available:
Competition for existing jobs at colleges and universities
is great. Jobs in local, state and federal government
agencies are also shrinking rapidly thereby, limiting career
opportunities. However, better opportunities will be
available to those with advanced educational degrees and
experience.
How Much Schooling,
Training, or Skill Development:
A Bachelor's degree is required for entry level work with
various groups and organizations. Those with a
Bachelor's degree can choose to pursue graduate degrees in
Political Science, International Relations, Public
Administration, Public Policy, Law and business.
Teaching at the college or university level requires a
Master's Degree or Ph.D.
What They Study at
LCC:
Follow the Curriculum Guide for Associate in Arts Degree
with a concentration in Political Science
American Political Science Association
Michigan Conference of Political Scientists
Working Your Degree - CNN article
National Association of Schools of Public Affairs and Administration
U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics
E-Mail link To:
Mark Guerrieri
Lead Faculty Political Science Program
guerriem@lcc.edu
Dina Krois, PhD
kroisd@lcc.edu
Faculty
Julia Petry,
Chair, Social Science Department
petryj@lcc.edu
