The knowledge of government, public policy, and political behavior, as well as philosophical, normative, and empirical approaches to the study of political life gained from a major in Political Science in the Ideas and Methods concentration provides a strong career foundation. Graduates in Ideas and Methods might work as analysts, policy advisers, campaign or political staffers, educators, or activists. This major is also excellent preparation for law school or graduate studies in public administration or public health policy. Some of the jobs titles listed below require an advanced degree.
Potential Career Areas:
- Analysis
- Research
- Consulting/advising
- Advocacy
- Education
- Reporting
- Campaign management
- Polling
- Public relations
Sample Employers:
- Politicians
- Government agencies
- Nonprofit organizations
- Media outlets
- Polling agencies
- Think tanks
- Research institutes
- Colleges and universities
- Schools
Sample Job Titles and National Salary Ranges:
| Job Title | Salary Range |
|
Policy Analyst
|
$30,000 - $93,000
|
|
Legislative Assistant
|
$30,000 - $45,000
|
|
Women’s Rights Activist
|
$32,000 - $75,000
|
|
Opposition Researcher
|
$30,000 - $250,000
|
|
Political Scientist
|
$48,000 - $69,500
|
|
Political Science/Civics Teacher, Secondary
|
$35,000 - $53,200
|
|
Congressional Aide
|
$29,891 - $51,815
|
|
Political Science Professor
|
$36,000 - $70,500
|
|
Campaign Manager
|
$6,000 - $7,000/month
|
|
Pollster
|
$30,000 - $50,000
|
|
Political Consultant
|
$30,000 - $105,000
|
|
Political Correspondent
|
$25,000 - $60,000
|
|
Research Analyst
|
$35,000 - $90,000
|
Sources of Information: United States Department of Labor: Bureau of Labor Statistics (2010); DISCOVER (2011); Facts on File: Ferguson’s Career Guidance Center (2011).