Political Scientists
O*NET 19-3094.00 · SOC 19-3094
Political Scientist is a risky career choice. Median pay is $142k a year with -2% projected growth through 2035 (declining) and about 400 openings a year. AI exposure: Moderate.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Analyze voting patterns and election data to identify political trends.
- →Write policy briefs summarizing research on government programs.
- →Collect and interpret data on public opinion and political behavior.
- →Study the effects of legislation on specific populations or regions.
- →Present research findings to government agencies or academic audiences.
Education & How to Get In
Political Scientist roles typically require a master's degree, doctorate, or professional degree. This is a long-term investment, expect 6–10 years of post-secondary education, but the depth of expertise commands strong compensation and career stability.
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Work Environment
Analytical, research labs, offices, or remote
Independent, focused deep work with periodic team check-ins
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Political Scientist involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Political Scientist?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Political Scientist Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
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Job Outlook
Employment of Political Scientists is projected to decline 2% from 2025 to 2035, declining for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·31% social/interpersonal tasks, hard for AI to replace
- ·47% creative/strategic tasks, AI augments, doesn't replace
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does a Political Scientist make?
The median Political Scientist earns $142k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Political Scientist jobs?
Our model puts Political Scientist at 27 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is moderate, likely AI-complementary. The main drivers: 31% social/interpersonal tasks, hard for AI to replace; 47% creative/strategic tasks, AI augments, doesn't replace.
Is Political Scientist a growing field?
Employment is projected to shrink 2% between 2025 and 2035, which is declining. That works out to roughly 400 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Political Scientist?
Political Scientist roles generally require a master's, doctorate or professional degree, so plan for graduate study rather than a bachelor's alone.
How long does it take to become a Political Scientist?
Typically six to ten years, typically a master's, doctorate or professional degree. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 5 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Political Scientist career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
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