19-3094

Political Scientists

Role Overview

Study the origin, development, and operation of political systems. May study topics, such as public opinion, political decisionmaking, and ideology. May analyze the structure and operation of governments, as well as various political entities. May conduct public opinion surveys, analyze election results, or analyze public documents. Excludes “Survey Researchers” (19-3022).

Recommended Majors

International/Globalization Studies. History and Political Science. Philosophy, Politics, and Economics. Public Policy Analysis, General. International Policy Analysis. International Relations and Affairs. National Security Policy Studies. International Relations and National Security Studies, Other. Political Science and Government, General. American Government and Politics (United States). Canadian Government and Politics. Political Economy. Political Science and Government, Other.

Related Careers

Agricultural and Food Science Technicians Agricultural and Food Scientists Agricultural Technicians Animal Scientists Anthropologists and Archeologists Astronomers

Salary by State (top paying)

State	Median salary
Virginia	$163,950
District of Columbia	$153,320
Maryland	$148,680
Washington	$140,970
Pennsylvania	$132,640
California	$130,630
Massachusetts	$130,580
Michigan	$125,750
Texas	$111,720
Arizona	$104,100
Ohio	$99,130
Illinois	$98,300
Georgia	$80,000
New Jersey	$74,760
New York	$74,080

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the job outlook for this career?

Projected growth and annual openings are from BLS Employment Projections. Use the sidebar for median salary and growth rate.

How does salary vary by state?

See the Salary by State table above for state-level median wages from OEWS data.

BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), BLS Employment Projections.

Median Annual Salary

$139,380

Projected Growth (10yr)

+-3.1%

Avg. annual openings

0.5k

Market Insight

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