Summary
![political scientists image](/https/www.bls.gov/ooh/images/15544.jpg)
Quick Facts: Political Scientists | |
---|---|
$132,350 per year
$63.63 per hour |
|
Master's degree | |
None | |
None | |
6,200 | |
7% (Faster than average) | |
400 |
What Political Scientists Do
Political scientists study the origin, development, and operation of political systems.
Work Environment
Political scientists typically work full time in an office. They sometimes work additional hours to finish reports and meet deadlines.
How to Become a Political Scientist
To enter the occupation, political scientists typically need at least a master’s degree in political science, public administration, or a related field.
Pay
The median annual wage for political scientists was $132,350 in May 2023.
Job Outlook
Employment of political scientists is projected to grow 7 percent from 2022 to 2032, faster than the average for all occupations.
About 600 openings for political scientists are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.
State & Area Data
Explore resources for employment and wages by state and area for political scientists.
Similar Occupations
Compare the job duties, education, job growth, and pay of political scientists with similar occupations.
More Information, Including Links to O*NET
Learn more about political scientists by visiting additional resources, including O*NET, a source on key characteristics of workers and occupations.