Career in Politics

Provides information about a career in politics including the role of political scientists, qualifications required and specializations

What is Politics

Politics is the science of government and regulation, leader interactions and decision making, and the resulting public reaction and action. Political science then, is a comprehensive study of power among decision makers. Political science studies public affairs, institutions, governmental operations, and legal systems.

What is a Political Scientist ?

Political scientists study political systems and public policy by researching the relationships between countries, institutions, and opinion leaders. As part of their research, political scientists study policies and their origin, public opinion, political structure, and government operation. They then publish, debate, and defend their findings. The goal of the political scientist is to preserve the peace, safety, and integrity of systems that have historically worked for the greater good, and to modify or eradicate those that never worked or are no longer working.

What are the qualifications of a Political Scientist ?

Those desiring to be a political scientist can enter the field as a research assistant by earning a bachelors degree in political science or in another of the social sciences. However, to hold a higher position, you’ll need at least a master’s degree in political science. Study in either career path should include statistics, political theory, economics, communications, and history. Those planning to teach will need a Ph.D.

What are the tasks of a Political Scientist?

To reach conclusions, political scientists conduct surveys, analyze election results, interview all relevant individuals, and scrutinize available documentation. Some attend legal proceedings and observe public events. Other tasks might include:

Consulting with governmental officials or those who have first hand experiences with governmental offices

Identify, research, analyze, and advocate public policy issues

Analyze the conclusions of studies

Establish key contacts in the offices of elected and appointed government personnel

Prepare reports and documentation

Write articles for publication in newspapers, magazines, and journals

Research

Teach

Are there any areas of specialization?

Political scientist positions may be difficult to find in some areas. Areas of specialization include comparative politics, international politics, political philosophy, and national politics. However, there are many other positions or specialties that don’t fall into the category of “political scientist, but require the same skill set, interests, and education. A sample of these is as follows:

Public administration

Social work

Public planning

Social policy

Public affairs

Analyst

International relations

Ambassador

Archivist

Biographer

City manager

Foreign correspondent

Intelligence expert

City planner

Who employs Political Scientists?

Political scientists and those with political science backgrounds are found in government, in private firms, and in educational institutions. Other companies that hire those educated in politics include financial institutions, historical societies, investment firms, chambers of commerce, publishing companies, and libraries, and social associations.

Examples of companies that hire political scientists include: The American Heart Association, Toyota, the International Trade Commission, and Battelle. Universities also hire political scientists to lead research teams and to teach courses in political science. Entrepreneurial types may consider starting consulting businesses in their area of specialty and expertise.