Science · Study the origin, development, and operation of political systems
This profile is intended as career exploration guidance based on federal labor data. Actual job requirements, salaries, and opportunities vary by employer and location.
Entry Salary
$98–120k
First 1–2 years
Peak Salary
$163–192k
10+ years experience
Job Outlook
-3.1% · Declining
Projected decline of -3.1% from 2024 to 2034; about 1 openings projected per year.
Time to Start
6+ years
College degree typical
Salary data sourced from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) May 2024. Actual compensation varies by location, experience, employer, and specialization.
Research Assistant
Political Scientists
Experienced Political Scientists
Senior Political Scientists
Research Director / Chief Scientist
You prioritize Achievement
This career is strongly aligned with Achievement — a core work value that shapes how people approach their career decisions.
You're strong in Speaking
Speaking is a top skill for this career, and it plays to what students like you naturally do best.
Good fit for your timeline
This career typically requires a graduate or professional degree, which matches common student preparation goals.
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