Employment of political scientists is projected to decline 2 percent from 2014 to 2024.
More than half of all political scientists are employed by the federal government. Political scientists will continue to be needed in government to assess the impact of government policies, such as the efficiencies of public services, effects of departmental cuts, and advantages of proposed improvements. However, efforts to cut spending are expected to result in a decline in federal government employment, adversely impacting employment of political scientists.
Political organizations, lobbying firms, and many nonprofit, labor, and social organizations rely on the knowledge of political scientists to manage complicated legal and regulatory issues and policies. Political scientists will be needed at research and policy organizations to focus specifically on politics and political theory. Organizations that research or advocate for specific causes, such as immigration, healthcare, or the environment, also need political scientists to analyze policies relating to their field.
Job Prospects
Political scientists should face strong competition for most jobs. The small number of positions, combined with the popularity of political science programs in colleges and universities, means that there will likely be many qualified candidates for relatively few positions.
Candidates with a graduate degree, strong writing and analytical skills, and experience researching or performing policy analysis should have the best job prospects. Candidates who have specialized knowledge or experience in their field of interest will also have better job opportunities. Internships or volunteer work also may be helpful.
Some candidates with a bachelor's degree in political science may find entry-level jobs as assistants and research assistants. Many will also find positions in other in fields, such as business and law.
Political Scientists
Percent change in employment, projected 2014-24
Social scientists and related workers
12%
Total, all occupations
7%
Political scientists
-2%
Note: All Occupations includes all occupations in the U.S. Economy. Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections program
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2014-2024 Edition
Interesting Fact
The following words were all invented by advertising agencies: glamorize, sanitize, motorize, vitalize, finalize, personalize, tenderize, and customize.