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Why Earn a Degree in Political Science?

A degree in political science prepares an individual with the skills and knowledge necessary to examine, analyze and evaluate political systems, both real and theoretical, and how they will operate in a given environment. Students of political science will study various forms of government in depth, how such governments work, where their weaknesses lie, and how theory and practice deviate. Political science is a social science, and incorporates philosophy, economics, history and sociology into its models for political behavior and policy making. Degrees are available from the associate level on, though a career as political scientists will typically require at least a master's degree.

A curriculum in political science may include:

  • Comparative Politics
  • Political Analysis
  • International Relations
  • American Politics
  • Politics and Media

Career Summary

MEDIAN SALARY

$112,250

PERCENT ABOVE NATIONAL
INCOME AVERAGE

66.98%

TOTAL SECTOR EMPLOYMENT

6,350

Degree Median Salary vs Adjacent Degree Types

Source: BLS, US Census, and IPEDS

2024 Best Political Science Degree

Harvard University excels in bringing capable leaders and visionary scholars to the global stage. With the unparalleled academic achievements and outstanding achievements of nearly a century, it has attracted attention. These leaders have led the country to greater success.

Passionate individuals with profound inclination towards political science should enroll in Harvard's Graduate School for Government. Harvard’s graduate degree in political science in government delivers distinct resources to students of the program. In addition, the resources available to students include possible financial aid and programs.

Acceptance Rate

4.64

Student to Faculty Ratio

7:1

Princeton University-New Jersey is the fourth oldest university in the United States, with a rich history and 20 presidents who have led the United States to where it is today. Princeton is proud of its mission, which is to pursue its core philosophy of educational methods to serve the country and the world.

Students can access a degree in Political Science at Princeton’s Department of Politics. The program enables students to become experts in any subfield of political science through extensive and in-depth political training, including American, comparative, and international politics. Princeton offers a world-class political science program for qualified students.  Please take a moment to collect admissions information from PU if you are serious about a future in political science. 

Acceptance Rate

5.78

Student to Faculty Ratio

5:1

Yale University is the one of the nation’s top-performing universities with a clear goal for sustainability, excellence, and outstanding research. As a part of the “Ivy League” Yale University is known for its exemplary contribution in providing a platform for students to pursue and attain excellence and competence in their chosen field and program.  The university is a powerful force in bringing students the best Political Science degree experience. The department houses 45 faculty members with exceptional credentials in teaching and scholarship. In addition, for students who are interested in learning courses, the department not only provides excellent teaching staff, but also provides opportunities for students to expand their knowledge through sponsored seminars, lectures and conferences.

Acceptance Rate

6.08

Student to Faculty Ratio

6:1

Columbia University is a historical institution that has several and distinct contributions in fostering the nation’s success in various fields. It is located in Manhattan, New York City and is currently one of the leading universities in the United States.

Since its foundation in 1880, the Department of Political Science at Columbia University is considered to be one of the highest departments that provide high-quality education to political students. The program offers a course that enables students to master every subfield and field that defines a degree. Those who are interested can take advantage of the undergraduate and graduate degrees offered by the university.

Acceptance Rate

5.45

Student to Faculty Ratio

6:1

Brown University is one of the members of the prominent “Ivy League” and has been the country’s one of the leading research universities. Brown advocates the creation of a favorable educational environment so that students can enjoy academic freedom and help.

At Brown University, students interested in politics can take advantage of its vibrant community of faculty, undergraduates, and graduates. A variety of methods are guaranteed, including inspections of different regions of the world and top research programs in all sub-fields of the discipline. The graduate program for Political Science at Brown’s prepares the students for professional careers in advanced research and academia.

Acceptance Rate

7.07

Student to Faculty Ratio

6:1

It is recognized as America’s one of the leading and first universities. With its unparalleled academic ability and winning history, the University of Pennsylvania continues to serve the United States with its first-class courses in various fields and disciplines.

Among the many courses offered by the University of Pennsylvania, you can study for undergraduate and graduate political science degrees. The University of Pennsylvania has continuous progress and development in providing students with diverse and innovative training in all sub-fields of the program. Students can expect a rigorous political education fueled by the department’s eye for excellence and competence.

Acceptance Rate

7.66

Student to Faculty Ratio

6:1

The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) operates as a non-profit private institution which specializes in innovation and bringing state-of-the-art technology to the world. The Massachusetts Institute of Technology is known for its engineering and science departments, and it is highly valued in many institutions around the world.

In addition to its highly regarded engineering programs, MIT also offers leading degrees in political science. MIT’s curriculum in Politics provides students with a newer approach to understand the rudimentary and foundational knowledge of Political Science. It requires students to conduct influential research, innovation and critical thinking in order to achieve excellence in the subject.

Acceptance Rate

6.7

Student to Faculty Ratio

3:1

The University of Chicago is a private institution that is distinguished by its outstanding performance in academic training, research results, leading facilities, and well-trained faculty. It is estimated that 14,000 students enter the university every year.

The Department of Political Science at the University of California is known for its development of social science knowledge of politics and government. Over the years, the program has undergone a series of changes towards progress, while at the same time instilling its core strength in intellectuals and diversified educational methods. Its postgrad PoliSci degree is strictly a collaboration between teachers and students to help enhance critical thinking and systems thinking.

Acceptance Rate

6.17

Student to Faculty Ratio

5:1

In terms of research and innovation education, Stanford University in California is one of the top universities in the United States. Students enjoy opportunities in pursuing passion and discovering a world of endless possibilities and excellence through Stanford’s academic aid and guidance.

Stanford University offers political science courses designed to meet the needs of students for dynamic, progressive training to master the subject. It takes into account both qualitative and quantitative methods. Stanford University offers undergraduate and graduate programs for students who wish to further develop their knowledge and career opportunities in the political field.

Acceptance Rate

4.34

Student to Faculty Ratio

5:1

A member of the Ivy League, Dartmouth College is one of the world’s top-ranking universities. Dartmouth promises their students a life-long learning which thrives on independence, collaboration of culture, scholarly, and creative work.  Dartmouth College is home to a rigorous education in politics under their very own department of Government. Students who wish to expand their horizons in the fields of Government and Politics may pursue a degree in Political Science as led by Dartmouth’s leading faculty. The university guarantees opportunities on and off campus for all enrollees of the program.

Acceptance Rate

7.93

Student to Faculty Ratio

7:1

Duke University operates as a private institution that highly concentrates on students’ development to become well-rounded individuals with academic excellence and ethical standards. In addition, the university aims to promote education to improve the living conditions of the society and communities to which it belongs.

In order to comply with their mission statement, Duke University offers political science courses. Under the University’s Political Science department, students can enjoy. A guaranteed life-long education is waiting for learners in all areas and sub-discipline of the subject.

Acceptance Rate

7.6

Student to Faculty Ratio

6:1

Bowdoin College, located in Brunswick, Maine, is an operational liberal arts college founded in 1794. Bowdoin actively seeks for individuals with outstanding “unpromised” character to match their mission in fostering solidarity in diversity.

For Students who want to pursue understanding of Politics, Bowdoin’s Department of Government and Legal Studies is a place for in-depth training that will hone not only their skills but will also shape their perspectives in Political Science. They can take advantage of different opportunities in this plan. With the help and supervision of individuals, as well as outstanding individuals, the opportunity to lifelong learning is waiting ahead.

Acceptance Rate

9.05

Student to Faculty Ratio

9:1

Amherst (Amherst) is a well-known humanities college, which specializes in curriculum settings so that students can have a solid grasp of various topics. The institution offers a large number of undergraduate degrees and provides students with academic assistance for lifelong learning and the pursuit of excellence.

The political science department at Amherst is characterized by its dynamic approach to education. It includes in-depth analysis of all major and minor topics from political theory to Machiavelli topics. Any interested individual can expect a rigorous research experience that will tackle all important areas of the political theme.

 

Acceptance Rate

11.31

Student to Faculty Ratio

7:1

The California Institute of Technology (CalTech) is home to state-of-art facilities, invention, and never before seen innovations. Caltech students can enjoy a large number of courses in various fields and expertise, especially courses in the fields of science and engineering.

Although CalTech is notable for its excellence in Science and Engineering it’s still providing superior opportunities for students of politics and social sciences. Not only, the university promote excellence in understanding the world through top-notch engineering subjects, but under the institution’s Department of Humanities and Social Science, students can enroll in a political science program. Graduates of this program are expected to master tools in theoretical tools, game theory, and social choice in relation with politics.

Acceptance Rate

6.42

Student to Faculty Ratio

3:1

Pomona College is characterized by its Northeastern style in education. Founded in 1887, Pomona College is a private institution that champions in their comprehensive curriculum. Pomona College offers a well-rounded course that focuses on Political Science and related discussion.

The mission of Pomona's political science degree program is structured to help students explore the political world, transcending its complexity and fundamental issues.  There are 8 general courses in this program which students can navigate and master. Seniors are expected to complete a seminar and oral exam and any fellow who wishes to proceed with a more extensive research can continue their studies with a two-year course that guarantees a thesis.

Acceptance Rate

7.4

Student to Faculty Ratio

7:1

Swarthmore College (Swarthmore College) provides students with an educational experience in an open discussion, so it is different. It aims to create a sense of belonging and a community where students can establish connections and experience vibrant academic pursuits.

Swarthmore College offers a political science program that believes in achieving excellence through immersive intelligence. Ensure that students realize a variety of career choices in the political field. It covers the main areas of political science, including its subfields and disciplines.

Acceptance Rate

8.93

Student to Faculty Ratio

8:1

Cornell University is known as the best-performing research university in the United States because of its academic contributions and innovative capabilities. Its goal is to use university-based knowledge to benefit students and adapt the country to economic prosperity.  Cornell University offers various courses related to politics in its government departments. Students can visit undergraduates, postgraduates, and even minor courses, which will enable them to conduct in-depth analysis and understanding of various fields of political science. Encourage students to participate in different internship programs and research work.

Acceptance Rate

10.85

Student to Faculty Ratio

9:1

William College is a liberal arts college located in the rural area of Williamstown, Massachusetts. The institute of William college is dedicated to hone students’ competence in all variety of fields, expertise, and majors that they intend to pursue through their leading research facility and renowned faculty.

One of the strengths of William College lies in its top courses in the field of political science. The program aims to breakdown, analyze, and research in all traditional subfields of politics. Students in this course can choose two routes to complete the course and can continue their studies through honors thesis.

Acceptance Rate

12.6

Student to Faculty Ratio

6:1

Northwestern University is a global research institution that is internationally acclaimed for its unparalleled contributions in research, innovation and education excellence. It offers comprehensive and intensive courses covering various fields and majors, which can lead to undergraduate, graduate and certification.

The Department of Political Science at Northwestern University focuses on solving issues and topics of race, race, diversity, and religion. It prides itself as the largest faculty in the college of Arts and Science with its 550 undergraduate and minors. Strict curriculum and dynamic learning methods are one of the opportunities offered by the Department of Political Science.

Acceptance Rate

9.05

Student to Faculty Ratio

6:1

One of the defining characteristics of the University of Notre Dame is its affiliation with the doctrines and teachings of the Roman Catholic Church. This is a non-profit research organization that aims to help students achieve excellence through its outstanding research and scholarships.

In pursuit of academic excellence, the University of Notre Dame offers a comprehensive political curriculum in its Department of Political Science. In all major fields and subfields of politics, students will obtain guaranteed intellectual and personal development. The institution has undergraduate and postgraduate courses for the course.

Acceptance Rate

15.83

Student to Faculty Ratio

10:1

William March Rice University or Rice University is known for its 300-acre tree-lined campus in Texas. It is a comprehensive, non-profit A research university dedicated to making outstanding innovative contributions to the world and its communities. It holds one of the highest ranks in US News’ and World Report’s Country’s top 20 universities.

Rice University is a leader in its social science programs, including its top-notch political science department. The College hopes to enrich the students’ potential through modern techniques and equips them with research tools and opportunities. Rice University political science students focus on the three sub disciplines of political science to assist them in developing life-long careers and professional portfolios.

Acceptance Rate

8.72

Student to Faculty Ratio

N.A

Vandy, Vanderbilt University, is a private research institution in Nashville, Tennessee. As an institution it is determined to promote overall educational excellence through inclusive education, immersive undergraduate experience, and its interdisciplinary research.

Vanderbilt’s department for Political Science comprises a diverse group of faculty and scholars in the pursuit of intellectual discovery and achievement. The professional knowledge provided by the faculty and staff respected by the department is mainly concentrated in the main areas of political science, ranging from political theory to political methodology. In general, the department hopes to strike a balance between aspiring graduates and accomplished graduates.

Acceptance Rate

9.12

Student to Faculty Ratio

7:1

Georgetown University (Georgetown University) rigorous knowledge, different experiences and identities. The goal of the whole university is to develop an educational base that will highlight connectivity and interactivity at its heart.

The Department of PoliSci at Georgetown offers an inclusive and rigorous education in political science. Through its famous teaching and research institutions, through years of hard work and unremitting pursuit of excellence and theory, political students can enjoy the rich resources provided by the program. It offers courses in political science traditional and major fields: international relations, political theory, political economy and comparative theory.

Acceptance Rate

14.36

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

Washington University in St. Louis continues to develop with individualism as the core idea of its academic method. It provides individuals with freedom and ample opportunities to achieve extraordinary achievements in their chosen field or profession.

The University of Washington provides a tireless pursuit to become the best political science program in the world. Its faculty focuses on the importance of research in the various areas of political science and politics per se. The department is known for enhancing the talents of students by holding comprehensive lectures, conferences and workshops.

Acceptance Rate

13.85

Student to Faculty Ratio

7:1

Johns Hopkins University is a public research school located in Baltimore, Maryland, with multiple campuses in Montgomery and Maryland. Students enjoy a wide range of curriculum options, which allows them to enjoy academic freedom in pursuing their chosen career and career.

Faculty and staff in the Department of Political Science have expertise in various subfields of the program. It provides the opportunity to study for a PhD in political science, and all this emphasizes the research and method development of knowledge. Students who want more participation and more learning can expect to get more benefits from the training courses prepared by teachers of the Department of Political Science.

Acceptance Rate

11.17

Student to Faculty Ratio

7:1

Top Political Science Degrees

Students have a wide variety of degree pathways in poly-sci that include both graduate programs and undergraduate degrees.  We have compiled the most popular pathways to help you better understand your options along with quick access to the top ranked colleges in this area of study.

Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science

A bachelor’s degree in political science is designed as a 4-year program with concentrations available in political theory, international relations, methods and models, world politics, political economy, comparative politics, and American politics depending on the school and curricular design of the program.  A bachelor’s degree is the entry-point into a career in political science.  In fact, the Department of Labor indicates a scant 4% of political scientists surveyed have a bachelor’s degree and all others have a graduate degree in political science.

The bachelor’s degree is split between core curriculum and general education courses like philosophy, English, and psychology.  Each school will have mandated liberal arts curriculum and core political science courses to help students think differently about the world around them & effectively process disparate pieces of information.

Master’s Degree in Political Science

An online master’s degree in political science can be earned from a number of accredited colleges and universities around the country.  A master’s degree in political science is a 1-2 year program after meeting all lower level prerequisites of the bachelor’s degree program in political science.  Upper level courses in political science include rigorous classes such as quantitative methods in political research, political theory, international politics, comparative politics, and American politics followed by a thesis project.  According to the U.S. Department of Labor, 17% of political scientists have a master’s degree with many going on to earn a PhD in Political Science or entering the workforce.  Students are equipped with the skills and knowledge to analyze, respond, and influence to government policy while working with government agencies or via the private sector.

Doctorate’s Degree in Political Science

A PhD in political science is the most popular program for political scientists with over 75% earning a doctorate degree.  A PhD degree in political science will take students 2-4 years to complete after all lower level prerequisite courses are completed.   The span of time will vary by student depending on the number of credits taken at a given time, the course requirement, and length of time spent on the dissertation.  PhD graduates will be ready to launch a career working for a government agency, private sector, college or university, non-government agency, research facility, social advocacy organization, or an advertising agency.

Educational Requirements for Political Science Majors

A career as a political scientist generally requires a minimum of a master's degree. A majority of jobs in political science are provided by the federal and state governments through various agencies. These positions are typically responsible for policy making and research. Positions with think tanks and other institutions are also available, also for the purposes of research and policy. Many individuals pursuing master or doctoral degrees will do so in a related field, such as public policy or public administration.

Employment Opportunities for Political Scientists

Careers opportunities in political science are expected to have limited growth due to the high barrier of entry, and limitations in employment due to the major employer of such scientists being the government. Some growth is anticipated as interest in public policy and politics increases, resulting in the need for more educated and knowledgeable individuals in the field. The median salary for a political scientist is $114,290 per year.

Individuals with an associate or bachelor's degree may pursue varying careers outside of politics and public policy due to the cross-disciplinary nature of the major. Many will pursue graduate degrees in a separate field, while others will seek employment with firms that value the skills learned through such a degree, such as critical thinking, analysis, writing, and others.

Top Jobs for Political Science Majors

Political science majors will enjoy a range of jobs after graduating from college with a graduate degree. Skills a political scientist will obtain during their studies will include: writing, research, analytical, critical reasoning, and knowledge of political systems. With these skills, a political science major can launch an exciting career in a number of directions. The top jobs for a political science major include:

  • Policy Analyst
  • Intelligence Analyst
  • Political Campaign Manager
  • Public Relations Specialist
  • Social Media Manager
  • Market Research Analyst
  • Legislative Assistant
  • Teacher
  • Political Consultant
  • Attorney

Individuals interested in political science may also be interested in sociology, public policy, or public administration. Professional trade associations such as the APSA and the IPSA provide resources, tools, and research in this vocational domain. Students serious about a career in the political realm may consider joining such associations to network and help broaden their knowledge-base in the field.

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