How to become a Political Scientist

Overview, Courses, Exam, Colleges, Pathways, Salary

Humanities & social sciences
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Growth
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Salary
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Overview

Who is Political Scientist ?

A political scientist is a professional who specializes in the systematic study and analysis of political systems, policies, behaviors, and institutions. They seek to understand the dynamics of governments, political ideologies, and the impact of political decisions on societies. Political scientists conduct research, employ various methodologies, and use critical thinking to examine complex political issues and phenomena.
Their work spans diverse areas such as comparative politics, international relations, political theory, public policy, and political economy. Through rigorous research and analysis, political scientists aim to provide insights into political trends, inform public discourse, and contribute to policy development.
Political scientists may work in academic settings as professors or researchers in government agencies think tanks, research institutions, and nonprofit organizations. They often publish scholarly articles, reports, and policy recommendations to inform policymakers and the public. As experts in political analysis, political scientists play a crucial role in advancing knowledge, promoting informed decision-making, and shaping the understanding of political processes that shape societies worldwide.

Typical day at work

What does Political Scientist do?

Job description, Profiles, Roles and Duties:

  • Study political topics, like the U.S. political system and international affairs
  • Gathering and analyzing information from sources like public opinion polls
  • Establish theories using qualitative sources, like historical documents
  • Test theories using quantitative approaches, like statistical analysis
  • Planning, creating or enforcing policies
  • Assess the impact of policies and regulations on states, corporations and individuals
  • Monitor recent events, policy choices and other related problems
  • Predict social, economic and political patterns
  • Provide research findings by presentations and publishing papers
  • Investigate the impact of government strategies on a given region or population, both nationally and internationally
  • Examine election results or public records or interview officials
  • Team up with government economists to determine the impacts of particular legislative or public policy reforms
  • Evaluate a survey of public opinion

Abilities and Aptitude needed

What are the skills, abilities & aptitude needed to become Political Scientist?

Becoming a successful political scientist requires diverse abilities, skills, and aptitudes. These qualities enable individuals to analyze political systems, understand complex issues, and contribute to political science effectively. Here are some fundamental abilities, skills, and aptitudes needed to become a political scientist:

  • Analytical Skills: Political scientists must have strong analytical skills to examine and interpret political data, policies, and trends. They should be able to identify patterns, draw conclusions, and make informed judgments.
  • Research Skills: Proficiency in research methods, data analysis, and conducting literature reviews is crucial for political scientists to contribute to academic research and policy analysis.
  • Critical Thinking: The ability to think critically and objectively is essential for political scientists to evaluate political theories, ideologies, and policy proposals.
  • Communication Skills: Effective written and verbal communication skills are vital for political scientists to present their research findings, write reports, and engage in public discussions.
  • Problem-Solving: Political scientists must be adept at problem-solving, addressing complex political issues, and proposing potential solutions.
  • Political Knowledge: A strong understanding of political systems, theories, ideologies, and historical events is fundamental for political scientists to conduct informed analyses.
  • Ethical Considerations: Political scientists should be mindful of ethical considerations when conducting research, handling sensitive information, and engaging in public discourse.
  • Open-mindedness: A willingness to consider diverse viewpoints and remain open to new ideas and perspectives is essential for political scientists to maintain objectivity in their work.
  • Time Management: Effective time management is essential for political scientists, who often juggle research, writing, teaching, and other professional commitments.
  • Collaboration: Political scientists may collaborate with colleagues, policymakers, or interdisciplinary teams, so working collaboratively is valuable.
  • Adaptability: The field of politics is dynamic, and political scientists should be adaptable to changes in political landscapes, policy priorities, and research areas.
  • Interpersonal Skills: Networking, engaging with policymakers, and building professional relationships are facilitated by strong interpersonal skills.
  • Public Speaking: Political scientists may need to present their research findings at conferences or public speaking engagements to communicate their work effectively.
  • Writing Proficiency: Excellent writing skills are crucial for political scientists to publish research papers, reports, and academic articles.

Salary

Salary for Political Scientist?

Salary Information for Political Scientists:

  • Minimum Monthly Salary: The minimum monthly salary for an entry-level political scientist may range from INR 30,000 to INR 50,000 or more, depending on the employer, location, and level of responsibility.
  • Maximum Monthly Salary: Highly experienced and well-qualified political scientists, particularly those holding senior positions in research institutes, government think tanks, or international organizations, may earn a monthly salary ranging from INR 1,00,000 to INR 2,00,000 or more.
  • Annual Salary: The annual salary for entry-level political scientists could be approximately INR 3.6 lakhs to INR 6 lakhs per year. Experienced and highly skilled political scientists may earn a maximum yearly salary ranging from INR 12 lakhs to INR 24 lakhs or more.
  • Highest-Paying Jobs and Scope: The highest-paying jobs for political scientists are often found in research institutions, universities, policy analysis organizations, and international bodies. Political scientists with expertise in specialized areas such as international relations, public policy, political theory, or comparative politics may have more lucrative opportunities. As societies face complex challenges and political landscapes evolve, skilled political scientists who can provide valuable insights and solutions will have ample career growth and advancement prospects.Political scientists contribute to society by conducting in-depth research, analyzing political trends, advising policymakers, and contributing to public discourse.

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Pathways

How to become an Political Scientist?

Entrance Exam

Entrance Exam for Political Scientist ?

Courses

Which course I can pursue?



Industries

Which Industries are open for Political Scientist?

Political scientists have diverse industries open to them due to their expertise in analyzing political systems, policies, and behaviors. Some of the sectors where political scientists can find employment or consulting opportunities include:

  • Government and Public Administration: Political scientists can work in various government agencies and departments at local, state, national, or international levels. They may serve as policy analysts, political advisors, or researchers.
  • Nonprofit and Advocacy Organizations: Political scientists can work for nonprofit organizations, and advocacy groups focused on specific social, environmental, or political issues. They may conduct research, analyze policies, and advocate for particular causes.
  • Research and Think Tanks: Political scientists often work in research institutions and think tanks. They conduct independent research, publish reports, and contribute to public policy discussions.
  • Education and Academia: Many political scientists become professors, lecturers, or researchers in academic institutions, teaching political science and conducting scholarly research.
  • Media and Journalism: Political scientists can provide expert analysis and commentary on political developments in the media, appearing on television, radio, or in print media.
  • Public Relations and Consulting: Political scientists may work in public relations firms or as consultants, advising businesses and organizations on political strategy, government relations, and public policy.
  • International Organizations: Political scientists can work for organizations like the United Nations, World Bank, or regional organizations, contributing to global policy and governance initiatives.
  • Polling and Survey Research: Some political scientists work for polling firms and research organizations, conducting surveys and analyzing data on public opinion and political trends.
  • Corporate Social Responsibility: Companies can employ political scientists to handle corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives and navigate the intersection of business and politics.
  • Diplomacy and Foreign Relations: Political scientists may work in diplomacy and foreign affairs, representing their country's interests as diplomats or serving in consulates and embassies.
  • Legal and Law Firms: Political scientists can provide legal analysis, research, and expertise in law firms dealing with public policy and government-related cases.
  • Public Policy and Government Affairs: Political scientists can work in government affairs departments of corporations or organizations, advocating for their interests with policymakers.

internship

Are there internships available for Political Scientist?

Internships for political scientists can provide valuable hands-on experience in various sectors and help individuals gain insights into the practical applications of their academic knowledge. While internships specific to political science may be limited, here are some potential internship opportunities for aspiring political scientists:

  • Government Agencies: Interning with government agencies at local, state, or national levels can expose the inner workings of politics, public administration, and policy development.
  • Nonprofit and Advocacy Organizations: Internships with nonprofit organizations and advocacy groups allow political science students to engage in research, advocacy, and community outreach related to specific social or political issues.
  • Research Institutions and Think Tanks: Interning with research institutions and think tanks provide exposure to policy research, data analysis, and the formulation of policy recommendations.
  • Political Campaigns: Working as an intern on a political campaign offers a first-hand experience in grassroots organizing, voter outreach, public relations, and campaign strategy.
  • Media and Journalism: Internships with media outlets or political journalism platforms allow students to understand the role of the media in shaping political discourse and reporting on political events.
  • Diplomatic Missions: Some diplomatic missions and international organizations offer internships for political science students interested in diplomacy and foreign affairs.
  • Public Relations and Government Affairs: Internships in public relations firms or government affairs departments of companies can provide insights into the intersection of politics and business.
  • Local Community Organizations: Interning with community organizations or city councils can expose students to local governance and community engagement.
  • Legal and Law Firms: Interning with law firms handling public policy or government-related cases allows students to understand the legal aspects of political issues.
  • Academic Institutions: Some universities and research centers offer internships for students interested in assisting professors with research or teaching political science courses.

Career outlook

What does the future look like for Political Scientist?

The federal government hires nearly half of all political scientists. Political scientists determine the influence of government policies, like public service efficiencies, the consequences of policy reforms and the benefits of planned improvements. Colleges and universities employ political scientists too. They split their time between the responsibilities of teaching, writing, consulting, research and administration. Political scientists also work as policy analysts to handle complex legal and regulatory problems and policies for institutions that possess a stake in policy, like government, labor unions and political groups. They analyze existing policies and events using polls of public opinion, economic data and results of the elections. Political scientists would be expected to explicitly concentrate on politics and political theory at research and policy institutes. Organizations that are investigating or campaigning for particular issues, like immigration policies, health care, or the environment, often require political scientists to evaluate their field policies. Most political scientists work usually behind a desk, either on their own or in association with other social scientists.