What Can You Do With a Political Science Degree?

If you’ve ever wondered what can you do with a political science degree, the answer might surprise you. Political science is one of the most versatile degrees, opening doors to careers in government, law, nonprofit work, education, media, business, and beyond. Whether you’re a recent graduate, career changer, or planning for the future, this degree equips you with valuable skills and insight into systems that shape society.

This guide explores top political science jobs, career paths in various industries, essential skills, educational options, and salary expectations. By the end, you’ll have a clearer picture of the opportunities that await you with a political science degree.

Careers in Government and Public Service

One of the most traditional paths for political science graduates is government. Public service offers a wide range of impactful roles in local, state, or federal government.

1. Policy Analyst
Research, evaluate, and recommend changes to laws or public programs. You might assess healthcare reform, environmental policy, or education funding. Strong analytical and research skills make political science grads a natural fit.
Median Salary: $59,000+ (Entry-level)
Requirements: Bachelor’s degree; master’s preferred for advancement.

2. Government Administrator or Civil Servant
Manage programs, budgets, or departments in government agencies. Political science majors often become city planners, program coordinators, or budget analysts.
Median Salary: $76,540

3. Legislative Assistant / Congressional Aide
Support elected officials by conducting research, drafting legislation, and managing communications with constituents. This is an excellent early-career role for networking and learning the legislative process.
Median Salary: $50,000

4. Diplomat / Foreign Service Officer
Represent U.S. interests abroad, negotiate treaties, analyze political developments, or assist citizens. Requires passing the Foreign Service Exam.
Median Salary: $90,000

Political Science Jobs in Nonprofits and NGOs

If you’re passionate about social change, nonprofits and NGOs offer rewarding career paths. Your knowledge of policy and advocacy can help organizations create real impact.

1. Advocacy and Policy Coordinator
Work for civil rights organizations, environmental groups, or think tanks to influence legislation and public opinion.
Median Salary: $55,000–$70,000

2. Program Manager / Administrator
Coordinate community programs like voter registration drives or refugee support services.
Median Salary: $74,000

3. Research Analyst (Think Tanks)
Conduct research on topics like healthcare, climate change, or education to support public policy decisions.
Median Salary: $60,000–$80,000

Law and Legal Careers

Political science is one of the top undergraduate majors for future lawyers. Whether or not you attend law school, many legal and justice-related roles are available.

1. Attorney
Represent clients, draft legal documents, and argue cases. Political science lays a strong foundation in constitutional and civil law.
Median Salary: $135,740
Requirements: Juris Doctor (J.D.), Bar Exam

2. Paralegal or Legal Assistant
Support lawyers by conducting research, managing files, and drafting documents.
Median Salary: $60,000
Requirements: Certificate or associate degree (sometimes waived with a bachelor’s)

3. Government or Compliance Roles
Work in law enforcement, regulatory agencies, or as a compliance officer ensuring businesses follow laws.
Median Salary Range: $60,000–$100,000+

Education and Research Careers

If you’re passionate about teaching or academic inquiry, your political science background can pave the way in education and research.

1. High School Social Studies Teacher
Teach government, civics, and history.
Median Salary: $62,000
Requirements: Teaching certification

2. College Professor / Researcher
Teach college courses and conduct scholarly research.
Median Salary: $93,800
Requirements: Master’s or Ph.D.

3. Academic Research or Education Administration
Work in admissions, student affairs, or policy research at universities or education nonprofits.

Media and Communications

If you’re a strong communicator, media roles can be an exciting fit.

1. Journalist / Political Correspondent
Report on politics and public issues in news outlets.
Median Salary: $57,500
Skills: Strong writing, research, and storytelling abilities.

2. Public Relations Specialist
Manage an organization’s public image, craft messaging, and respond to media inquiries.
Median Salary: $66,750

3. Media Analyst or Commentator
Analyze political trends for media, think tanks, or social platforms.

Business and Private Sector Careers

Surprised? Political science majors succeed in corporate settings too—thanks to their strategic, analytical, and communication skills.

1. Government Relations / Public Affairs
Represent your company in policy discussions or regulatory matters.
Median Salary: $70,000–$100,000+

2. Management or Policy Consultant
Help businesses solve strategic challenges. Some specialize in political risk or government consulting.
Median Salary: $75,000–$120,000+

3. Marketing or Project Management
Apply your analytical thinking and communication skills to business strategy and campaign development.

4. Entrepreneurship
Start your own consulting firm, advocacy organization, or small business. Political science gives you the leadership and problem-solving edge.

Transferable Skills from a Political Science Degree

Your degree arms you with powerful skills employers love:

• Critical Thinking – Evaluate issues, build arguments, and identify solutions.

• Research Abilities – Collect, analyze, and synthesize information.

• Strong Communication – Write persuasively and speak effectively.

• Understanding Perspectives – Navigate diverse viewpoints and team dynamics.

• Organization and Project Management – Run campaigns, events, or group work.

• Leadership and Collaboration – Take initiative and guide teams.

These skills are your ticket to success in nearly any field.

Additional Education and Certifications

To advance or pivot into specific careers, you may consider:

• Law School (J.D.) – Required for attorneys.

• MPA/MPP – For public policy or administration careers.

• Ph.D. – For academia or top research jobs.

• Certificates – In project management, data analytics, nonprofit leadership, or foreign languages.

• Teaching Certification – For K-12 educators.

Choose based on your goals and desired roles.

Top Political Science Jobs and Salaries (Snapshot)

Tips for Career Changers

Already working in another field? A political science degree still offers value. To pivot successfully:

1. Identify transferable skills like communication and analysis.

2. Take online courses or certifications to fill knowledge gaps.

3. Network and seek mentors in your target field.

4. Highlight relevant experience – even unpaid projects.

5. Start at the right level, even if it’s a step back at first.

6. Stay positive and persistent – career changes take time but are possible.

Final Thoughts: A Degree with Limitless Possibilities

So, what can you do with a political science degree? A whole lot. From shaping public policy to managing nonprofit programs, leading classrooms, reporting the news, or climbing the corporate ladder—political science careers span nearly every industry.

The key is to leverage your versatile skills, stay open to learning, and pursue paths that align with your values and strengths. Whether you’re dreaming of becoming a diplomat, researcher, advocate, or entrepreneur, your political science degree provides a strong launchpad.

Now’s the time to explore internships, polish your resume, and connect with professionals in your field. Your journey is just beginning—and with the right direction, you’ll find a career that’s both meaningful and successful.

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Sources:

• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Political Scientists. Occupational Outlook Handbook, U.S. Department of Labor, 2024, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/political-scientists.htm.

• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Lawyers. Occupational Outlook Handbook, U.S. Department of Labor, 2024, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/legal/lawyers.htm.

• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Public Relations Specialists. Occupational Outlook Handbook, U.S. Department of Labor, 2024, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/media-and-communication/public-relations-specialists.htm.

• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Reporters, Correspondents, and Broadcast News Analysts. Occupational Outlook Handbook, U.S. Department of Labor, 2024, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/media-and-communication/reporters-correspondents-and-broadcast-news-analysts.htm.

• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Paralegals and Legal Assistants. Occupational Outlook Handbook, U.S. Department of Labor, 2024, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/legal/paralegals-and-legal-assistants.htm.

• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Budget Analysts. Occupational Outlook Handbook, U.S. Department of Labor, 2024, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/business-and-financial/budget-analysts.htm.

• PayScale. “Average Policy Analyst Salary.” PayScale, 2024, https://www.payscale.com/research/US/Job=Policy_Analyst/Salary.

• American Political Science Association. “Careers and the Study of Political Science.” APSA.org, 2023, https://www.apsanet.org/careers.

• Indeed Editorial Team. “What Can You Do With a Political Science Degree?” Indeed Career Guide, 2024, https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/what-can-you-do-with-a-political-science-degree.

• Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce. What’s It Worth? The Economic Value of College Majors, 2020, https://cew.georgetown.edu/cew-reports/whats-it-worth/.