Political Scientists

Median salary, education path, job outlook, and related careers — based on U.S. labor data.

What a Political Scientists does

Study government systems, political behavior, policy, and international relations through research and analysis. They publish findings to inform public debate, help organizations understand political environments, or advise policymakers.

Education & path

The typical entry point is a doctoral degree. About 8+ years of higher education.

Estimated cost of that path: ~$110,000. Estimated payback: ~4 years. Estimates only — actual cost varies widely by school and financial aid; payback assumes ~20% of income applied.

Related careers

• Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists — $103,410/yr
• Occupational Health and Safety Specialists — $90,150/yr
• Environmental Restoration Planners — $82,220/yr
• Industrial Ecologists — $82,220/yr
• Climate Change Policy Analysts — $82,220/yr