What Political Scientist Job Pays 115,000 per year?

January 28, 2023 · 4 min read

It is difficult to say what specific job within the field of political science would make an annual salary of $115,000 without additional context. Salaries for political scientists can vary depending on factors such as level of education, years of experience, and the specific employer or industry. Some political scientists may work in academia, while others may work for think tanks, government agencies, or private companies. Additionally, some political scientists may specialize in a particular area of the field, such as international relations or public policy, which can also affect earning potential.

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for political scientists was $122,220 in May 2020. The BLS also reported that the lowest 10 percent earned less than $64,430, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $182,790.

Political scientists typically need a master's or Ph.D. degree in political science, public administration, or a related field. Many political scientists have a Ph.D. and work in research or teaching at colleges and universities. They also work in government, international organizations, and private research organizations. Some of the job duties for political scientists include:

  • Conducting research on political issues, often using statistical and mathematical techniques
  • Analyzing data and information to identify trends and patterns
  • Writing reports and articles for publication in scholarly journals
  • Teaching and mentoring students
  • Advising policymakers and other decision-makers on political and public policy issues
  • Participating in public speaking events and conferences

The specific salary for a political scientist can vary based on the location, the level of education, years of experience and the specific employer. For example, political scientists working for the federal government tend to earn higher salaries than those working in state or local government. Similarly, political scientists working in metropolitan areas may earn more than those working in rural areas. Additionally, political scientists working in private research organizations or consulting firms tend to earn higher salaries than those in academia.

The salary for a political scientist can vary depending on the specific field or area of specialization within the discipline. Here are a few examples of specializations within political science and the average salary for each:

  • International Relations: Political scientists who specialize in international relations may work for government agencies, international organizations, or private research firms. They may also work as consultants or analysts. The average salary for a political scientist specializing in international relations is around $100,000 - $120,000.
  • Public Policy: Political scientists who specialize in public policy may work for government agencies, think tanks, or non-profit organizations. They may also work as consultants or analysts. The average salary for a political scientist specializing in public policy is around $85,000 - $110,000.
  • Political Campaigns: Political scientists who work on political campaigns may work as campaign managers, consultants, or analysts. The average salary for a political scientist working on political campaigns is around $70,000 - $90,000.
  • Academic: Political scientists who work in academia typically hold a Ph.D. and teach at colleges and universities. The average salary for a political scientist working in academia is around $70,000 - $120,000.

The salary for a political scientist can vary depending on the location. Here are a few examples of how salaries for political scientists might differ based on location:

  • Federal Government: Political scientists working for the federal government, such as in the Department of State, Department of Defense, or Central Intelligence Agency, tend to earn higher salaries than those working in state or local government. The average salary for a political scientist working for the federal government is around $100,000 - $130,000.
  • State Government: Political scientists working for the state government may work as policy analysts or researchers. The average salary for a political scientist working for the state government is around $70,000 - $100,000.
  • Metropolitan Areas: Political scientists working in metropolitan areas, such as Washington D.C., New York City, or Los Angeles, may earn more than those working in rural areas. The average salary for a political scientist working in metropolitan areas is around $80,000 - $120,000.
  • Rural Areas: Political scientists working in rural areas may work in academia, government, or non-profit organizations. The average salary for a political scientist working in rural areas is around $60,000 - $90,000.
by Liza Sushko

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