Occupation
Political Scientists
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.
$142,080 medianBelow-avg outlookGraduate degree
O*NET 31.0 · 19-3094.00
A typical week, in the words of people in the job
- 01Teach political science.
- 02Maintain current knowledge of government policy decisions.
- 03Develop and test theories, using information from interviews, newspapers, periodicals, case law, historical papers, polls, or statistical sources.
- 04Disseminate research results through academic publications, written reports, or public presentations.
- 05Advise political science students.
- 06Collect, analyze, and interpret data, such as election results and public opinion surveys, reporting on findings, recommendations, and conclusions.
- 07Interpret and analyze policies, public issues, legislation, or the operations of governments, businesses, and organizations.
- 08Identify issues for research and analysis.
- 09Serve on committees.
- 10Forecast political, economic, and social trends.
- 11Consult with and advise government officials, civic bodies, research agencies, the media, political parties, and others concerned with political issues.
- 12Evaluate programs and policies, and make related recommendations to institutions and organizations.
Task statements ranked by how many workers report them · O*NET 31.0
Knowledge the job leans on
Law and GovernmentEnglish LanguageEducation and TrainingHistory and ArcheologyMathematicsCommunications and MediaSociology and AnthropologyGeography
Skills that carry over from service
Social PerceptivenessComplex Problem SolvingJudgment and Decision MakingInstructingSystems EvaluationService OrientationCoordinationSystems Analysis