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Political Science


Political science is the study of society and the politics that govern everything, from social behaviors to the development and workings of political systems. Political scientists help governments make decisions and policies and properly exert their authority as well as find solutions to societal and governmental problems.

Political scientists also study the interaction of the United States with other countries, as well as the conclusions of the U.S. Supreme Court and how its decisions affect American life.

Education & Career Opportunities in Political Science

People who earn degrees in political science usually end up working as market or policy analysts for the government or non-profit oversight groups. Others work as researchers or writers, interpreting governmental policies.

There are relatively few entry-level positions available to people who hold bachelor's degrees in political science; most jobs in the field require advanced degrees and several years of work experience. Since the field requires a great deal of gathering and analyzing data, political scientists must excel in statistics and math.

Political science is a good-paying field--the median annual salary was $104,090 in 2009. Many political science graduates also work as teachers--those who do earned median annual salaries $68,790, with the top professors taking home more than $128,000 annually. Market research analysts earned average annual salaries of $61,580, while the highest wage earners could earn more than $111,900 per year.



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Walden University
Walden University Balance your personal and professional commitments while earning a respected Ph.D., master's degree, or bachelor's degree online at Walden University. Programs offered in management, education, psychology and health and human services.

  • Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration - Course-based - Local Government Management for Sustainab
  • Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration - Mixed-Model - Homeland Security Policy and Coordination
  • Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration - Mixed-Model - Local Government Management for Sustainabl
  • Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration - Mixed-model - General
  • Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration - Course-based - Policy Analysis
Ashford University
Ashford University Earn the degree you've always wanted at Ashford University. Achieve your goals with the resources you need, including an innovative online classroom and a supportive environment. Your education at Ashford University is a shared experience that unites you with students and faculty around the world. Ashford University is defining the modern college experience.

  • MA/Education - Education and Public Policy
Northcentral University
Northcentral University

Earn your degree online and boost your career at Northcentral University. We offer online doctoral, master's, and bachelor's degree programs in education, behavioral and health sciences, and business.



  • Gender Diversity Studies - PhD of Psychology
  • Gender Diversity Studies - MA in Psychology
Capella University
Capella University

Capella is an accredited, online university where you'll experience unparalleled support, join a community of accomplished professionals, and be challenged with rigorous academics. Learn more about our online doctoral, master’s, MBA, undergraduate, and certificate programs by answer a short form.



  • MS - Social and Behavioral Sciences