The knowledge of theoretical and constitutional foundations of government, U.S. intelligence, security, and U.S. foreign policy gained from a major in Political Science in the American Politics concentration forms a strong career foundation. Graduates in American Politics may work as political advisers, consultants, or spokespeople, may train to become intelligence agents, or may write or conduct research on political activity. This major is also excellent preparation for law school or graduate studies in public administration. Some of the job titles listed below require an advanced degree or additional training.
Potential Career Areas:
- Advising/consulting
- Public relations
- Intelligence/defense
- Research
- Reporting
- Analysis
- Policy design/implementation
- Advocacy
- Education
Sample Employers:
- Government agencies
- U.S. Consulates
- Think tanks
- Colleges and universities
- Schools
- Polling agencies
- Politicians
- Businesses and organizations
- Textbook publishers
Sample Job Titles and National Salary Ranges:
| Job Title | Salary Range |
|
Political Scientist
|
$48,000 - $69,500
|
|
Political Reporter
|
$17,900 - $48,450
|
|
Press Secretary
|
$30,140 - $51,280
|
|
Political Action Committee Professional
|
$28,000 - $100,000
|
|
Campaign or Party Staffer
|
$30,000 - $150,000
|
|
Speechwriter
|
$39,305 - $70,707
|
|
Political Consultant
|
$35,000 - $45,000
|
|
Government Reform Activist
|
$30,000 - $55,000
|
|
Pollster
|
$30,000 - $50,000
|
|
City Manager
|
$40,000 - $94,992
|
|
City Councilor
|
$10,000 - $30,000
|
|
FBI Agent
|
$54,000 - $70,000
|
|
Political Science/Civics Teacher, Secondary
|
$35,000 - $53,200
|
|
Congressional Aide
|
$29,891 - $51,815
|
|
Lobbyist
|
$40,500 - $56,500
|
Sources of Information: United States Department of Labor: Bureau of Labor Statistics (2010); DISCOVER (2011); Facts on File: Ferguson’s Career Guidance Center (2011).