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Job outlook for political analysts in the United States
Are political analyst jobs in demand?
Political analyst job and salary trends over time
Political analyst jobs over time
Political analyst job growth rate over time
| Year | # of jobs | % of population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 825 | 0.00% |
| 2020 | 877 | 0.00% |
| 2019 | 877 | 0.00% |
| 2018 | 826 | 0.00% |
| 2017 | 923 | 0.00% |
Average political analyst salary over time
Political analyst salary by year
| Year | Avg. salary | Hourly rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | $98,725 | $47.46 | +2.6% |
| 2025 | $96,260 | $46.28 | +4.0% |
| 2024 | $92,598 | $44.52 | +2.1% |
| 2023 | $90,660 | $43.59 | +0.7% |
| 2022 | $90,014 | $43.28 | +14.6% |
Political analyst jobs by state
Most common states for political analysts
| Rank | State | Population | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 102 | 15% |
| 2 | Virginia | 8,470,020 | 405 | 5% |
| 3 | Maryland | 6,052,177 | 239 | 4% |
| 4 | Massachusetts | 6,859,819 | 190 | 3% |
| 5 | Colorado | 5,607,154 | 161 | 3% |
| 6 | North Dakota | 755,393 | 22 | 3% |
| 7 | Alaska | 739,795 | 21 | 3% |
| 8 | Vermont | 623,657 | 17 | 3% |
| 9 | California | 39,536,653 | 621 | 2% |
| 10 | Illinois | 12,802,023 | 242 | 2% |
| 11 | Ohio | 11,658,609 | 181 | 2% |
| 12 | Arizona | 7,016,270 | 157 | 2% |
| 13 | New Jersey | 9,005,644 | 141 | 2% |
| 14 | Indiana | 6,666,818 | 102 | 2% |
| 15 | Connecticut | 3,588,184 | 61 | 2% |
| 16 | Nevada | 2,998,039 | 46 | 2% |
| 17 | Idaho | 1,716,943 | 32 | 2% |
| 18 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 25 | 2% |
| 19 | Delaware | 961,939 | 24 | 2% |
| 20 | Rhode Island | 1,059,639 | 19 | 2% |
Most common cities for political analysts
| Rank | City | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl | Avg. salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Baltimore | 1 | 0% | $112,616 |
Political Analyst job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of political analyst experts
Montclair State University
University of Central Missouri
University of Maine
Michigan State University
Louisiana State University and A&M College
Augustana College
University of Massachusetts Boston
Tennessee State University
Coastal Carolina University
Ohio State University
Gannon University
Morgan State University
What general advice would you give to a Political Analyst?
Sara Moore Ph.D.: I often find that graduating students are looking for a long-term career right after graduation, but in a field like sociology, people often explore different career paths before settling on one. I've seen our students start off in non-profit work only to end up in policy work or start off in criminal justice but end up in mental health counseling. What's important for sociology graduates to remember is that what sets them apart is the tools they've developed to understand how social forces shape people's lived experiences. That unique perspective can yield incredible insights into people's motivations, but also how social institutions can be changed to better meet the needs of more people. These insights are useful across many professions, including healthcare, education, public policy, management, and advocacy among others.
What Political Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Sara Moore Ph.D.: Sociology is a discipline that helps students develop important critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Regardless of what career path they end up on, their ability to see the connections between individuals and society and recognize how complicated and nuanced those connections are, can help them think through various social and interpersonal issues in meaningful ways. For example, I recently gave a reference for a student who earned an undergraduate degree in sociology and a graduate degree in counseling. During my conversation with the hiring manager, he told me that what set this candidate apart was her background in sociology. He shared that many applicants had a degree in psychology, and while that degree is certainly useful, this candidate's deep understanding of how social institutions reproduce social inequalities and directly affect people's mental health and wellbeing really helped her rise above the others. Sociology graduates' ability to understand and articulate those social and cultural contexts is incredibly valuable across fields. Moreover, most sociology graduates have a strong understanding of quantitative and qualitative research design and data analysis, which are skills they can apply across an array of fields and is especially important in a political and cultural moment where an understanding of science is so paramount.
What will help Political Analysts increase their earning potential?
Sara Moore Ph.D.: Don't be afraid to apply for a job that isn't a perfect match! There's no "sociologist" job title out in the world like there is "teacher" or "nurse," which can make applicants question whether a particular position is really right for them. Remember that when you search for positions, spend some time considering the broad knowledge base and skillset you developed in studying sociology and embrace the unique perspective sociology has given you.
What general advice would you give to a Political Analyst?
Dr. Josiah Marineau: Political science is an entrepreneurial degree. Some graduates go on to careers in the federal government, others go on to law school and become lawyers, while others find careers in the private and non-profit sectors. The main advice I would give is to work hard, be open to unexpected opportunities, and be willing to say yes to offers. Be proactive in seeking out opportunities, and utilize your professional network to find them, including your fellow graduates, your professors, and any organizations you served with as an intern.
What Political Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Josiah Marineau: Technological skills are increasingly commanding a premium in all career fields. In political science, having technical training is a must, whether in statistics, computer programming, and the use of AI for improved policy analysis and decision-making. I strongly recommend current students acquire competency in at least one technical skill before they leave college. While the job market will always have a high demand for employees who work hard and can think critically, having technical skills will virtually guarantee that you will land a job by the time you leave college.
What will help Political Analysts increase their earning potential?
Dr. Josiah Marineau: You maximize your salary potential by looking into growth areas within your field. Right now, being able to use AI to improve analysis and decision-making in organizations is a critical skill. The students who acquire this ability now will have a higher salary upon entering the job market, and having a higher starting salary increases one's lifetime earnings considerably. I highly recommend students see technology as a tool they can use to open up job opportunities and invest in these skills early because they take time to master.
What general advice would you give to a Political Analyst?
Dr. Ghaidaa Hetou PhD: Highlighting data analysis and statistics proficiency in your CV is a game changer for political science graduates. Make sure to invest your time in quality internships, especially the ones that are relatively close to your field on interest. If your employers offers you training opportunities to qualify for certain positions, take it. This means they see potential in you. Last but not least: Be a team player!
What Political Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Ghaidaa Hetou PhD: My advice would be not to expect your career path to be straightforward as a political science graduate, like a career in hard sciences for example. Every turn will give you an opportunity to learn and grow. Internship opportunities can lead to full time job offers, and sometimes entry jobs are the sure way to get your foot in the door, and an opportunity to prove your value to the organization. A degree in political science does not have to lead necessarily to Law School, you can start your career at state or federal government offices. In addition, investment and financial sectors are in need of in-house researchers in the politics and cultures of different countries.
What will help Political Analysts increase their earning potential?
Dr. Ghaidaa Hetou PhD: Political science graduates who are proficient in quantitative analysis and statistics have a much better chance of finding good paying jobs. I advise my students to take data analysis courses before they graduate, it is a must in this day and age. Being proficient in a second (and maybe third language) is definitely a plus. As global competition intensifies between the US and China, young Americans will have to do more and be more agile. Having the flexibility to adjust to different cultures and being open to travel and learn about others is certainly a plus. Let's not forget the importance of excellence in writing, research and written communication, although AI is diminishing the value of this skill, it will be important to know how to incorporate AI in any project.
What general advice would you give to a Political Analyst?
Tanesha Thomas PhD: Sociologists are researchers that study various aspects of society and human behavior. As researchers, sociologists use skills including interviews, historical analysis and statistics to better understand various aspects of society. Civil rights, income inequality, and climate change are examples of human behavior that sociologists are interested in. Most people know that sociologists work in academic institutions, like colleges and universities. In these careers sociologists engage in research as well as teaching students. Sociological research also takes place at non-governmental organizations like research centers, think tanks and policy institutes. These institutions use research to write legislation and policy proposals related to social, cultural and political issues for interest groups. Many people are not aware that there are a variety of careers outside of research and education that utilize the sociology degree. People with sociology degrees are prepared to enter careers in law, politics, social/public service, journalism, marketing and business, to name a few. These jobs utilize other valuable aspects of a sociology degree including research and writing skills, data analysis, critical thinking, and problem solving.
What will help Political Analysts increase their earning potential?
Tanesha Thomas PhD: At Montclair State University, students enjoy that sociology courses are practical, interesting and downright fun. A degree in sociology includes taking courses on culturally and socially relevant topics such as race and ethnicity; social movements; gender and sexuality; religious diversity; environmental sustainability; health and illness, among others. Sociologists enjoy learning about issues that affect their lives and the lives of others. People encounter issues everyday that make use of the knowledge one gains from sociology. One of the things that people dislike about being a sociologist is the misconception that sociology is not useful and or practical. While the title 'sociologist' may be reserved for academics and researchers, there are many careers where an education in sociology is very important.
What general advice would you give to a Political Analyst?
Dr. Gregory Streich: My general advice to a graduate starting their career is to realize that your first job will not be your last. In other words, it is increasingly common for people to change jobs and move both horizontally and vertically throughout their careers. It's important, however, to realize that at each step of your career, you are not just applying skills you learned as an undergraduate, you are sharpening those skills and acquiring new skills with each position. So, whenever you apply for a promotion with your current employer or an opening with another employer, the skills and experiences you've accumulated over time will help you continue to succeed.
What Political Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Gregory Streich: Over the next 3-5 years, several skills will continue to be important for anyone in the job market: communication, critical thinking, leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving skills have been and will continue to be important. However, two additional skills will become more sought after in the next 3 - 5 years. First, we live in a world of data, so whether it is gathering data, analyzing it, summarizing it, and/or using it to guide decisions and shape policies will be increasingly crucial moving forward. And, second, as we enter a world in which Artificial Intelligence (AI) is increasingly prevalent, we will need to hone our skills to understand the ethical use of AI and anticipate ways in which it will impact society, the economy, and the job market (for better or worse).
What will help Political Analysts increase their earning potential?
Dr. Gregory Streich: To maximize your salary potential when starting your career, I have two suggestions. First, consider adding a minor to your major. Political Science provides students with a certain set of skills and content knowledge, but to maximize your earning potential consider adding a minor that will broaden your skillset. For example, add a minor in something like technical writing, creative writing, digital marketing, economics, or statistics. Depending on your career path, these minors can provide you with a wider range of skills that will appeal to potential employers. Second, don't be afraid to negotiate your starting salary. It's exciting to get a job offer and jump at it, but employers typically have a pay range. And if you have additional skills or experiences, this could be the basis for negotiating a higher starting salary.
What general advice would you give to a Political Analyst?
Sai Sato Mumm: Contributing to Social Change: Many sociologists are passionate about addressing social issues and inequalities. They appreciate the chance to conduct research that can inform policy decisions, advocate for marginalized groups, and contribute to creating more just and equitable societies.
Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Sociologists value the opportunity to exchange ideas and perspectives with colleagues from different disciplines, which enriches their work.
Flexibility and Versatility: Sociology offers a wide range of career paths, allowing individuals to pursue roles in academia, research institutes, government agencies, non-profit organizations, and the private sector. Sociologists appreciate the flexibility to apply their skills and knowledge in various settings.
Intellectual Stimulation: Sociology provides intellectual stimulation through critical thinking, analysis, and problem-solving. Sociologists enjoy the challenge of exploring complex social phenomena and developing theories to explain them.
What Political Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Sai Sato Mumm: Understanding Society: In an era marked by rapid social change, understanding the dynamics of society becomes increasingly important. Sociology provides valuable insights into human behavior, social structures, and cultural phenomena, which are essential for navigating today's complex world.
Social Issues: Sociologists play a crucial role in addressing pressing social issues such as inequality, poverty, discrimination, crime, and environmental degradation. By studying these issues, sociologists can contribute to creating more just and equitable societies.
Interdisciplinary Nature: Sociology intersects with various disciplines such as psychology, economics, anthropology, political science, and public health. This interdisciplinary approach allows sociologists to tackle complex problems from multiple perspectives, fostering innovative solutions.
Data Analysis Skills: With the advent of big data and advanced statistical techniques, sociologists are equipped with the tools to analyze large datasets and derive meaningful conclusions.
Career Opportunities: Sociology graduates are versatile and can pursue diverse career paths. They can work in research, education, policy analysis, social work, community development, market research, human resources, and advocacy, among other fields.
Global Perspective: Sociology offers a global perspective on social issues, enabling professionals to work across cultural boundaries and address challenges on a global scale.
What will help Political Analysts increase their earning potential?
Sai Sato Mumm: Analyze and interpret data to increase the understanding of human social behavior.
Prepare publications and reports containing research findings.
Develop, implement, and evaluate methods of data collection, such as questionnaires or interviews.
Collect data about the attitudes, values, and behaviors of people in groups, using observation, interviews, and review of documents.
Teach sociology.
Plan and conduct research to develop and test theories about societal issues such as crime, group relations, poverty, and aging.
Present research findings at professional meetings.
Explain sociological research to the general public.
Develop problem intervention procedures, using techniques such as interviews, consultations, role playing, and participant observation of group interactions.
Consult with and advise individuals such as administrators, social workers, and legislators regarding social issues and policies, as well as the implications of research findings.
Direct work of statistical clerks, statisticians, and others who compile and evaluate research data.
Collaborate with research workers in other disciplines.
Write grants to obtain funding for research projects.
Develop approaches to the solution of groups' problems, based on research findings in sociology and related disciplines.
Observe group interactions and role affiliations to collect data, identify problems, evaluate progress, and determine the need for additional change.
What general advice would you give to a Political Analyst?
Robert Glover: In general, I really push students in political science to gain skills in quantitative methods, data management, and data analysis. There's simply no trajectory from a political science degree where having those skills will be a disadvantage, even for something like law school or working for a government agency. Graduates are increasingly going to be expected to explore, make sense of, and utilize data. And it's a transferrable set of skills that enables you to pivot between different types or roles, even entirely different industries. The data analysis skills that might be useful for a political campaign can also be used for marketing research, consulting, or economic development work. So it's important to gain these skills and also be strategic in how you can market yourself to different types of potential employers.
What Political Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Robert Glover: Again, this would depend on a student's career trajectory. For law school, the general advice is to go to the best ranked law school you can gain admission to, with the most generous financial support package. However, for someone entering government work, they might need to take more of a "long view." If a lower entry level pay translates into greater job security, more generous benefits, and the ability to build time and rank in government service that will eventually result in a higher salary, that might be a better option. Graduating political science students should also take into account the cost of living. An entry level salary in DC or a state capital might seem lucrative at first glance but might end up negated by the premium you pay to live there. So try to take account of not just the salary, but also the cost of living.
What will help Political Analysts increase their earning potential?
Robert Glover: That would really depend on which path the student is choosing from a Political Science degree. If they're considering law school or graduate school, the best advice can sometimes be to take a break after their undergraduate degree as it affords them time to gain practical work experience and earn some money (and to prepare for the intensity of advanced study). If they're moving into work in government or political advocacy/communications, they should be intentional in the types of candidates, organizations, and causes they're working for. The networks one develops early on can really shape future career trajectories.
Dr. Sarah Prior Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Sociology, Director of the Bailey Scholars ProgramMichigan State University
Sociology
What general advice would you give to a Political Analyst?
Dr. Sarah Prior Ph.D.: The best way to maximize salary potential in any field is to advocate for yourself, seek opportunities for growth, and recognize when changes need to be made.
What Political Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Sarah Prior Ph.D.: Sociologists are well prepared for the rapidly changing world. They have skill sets that can be used in a variety of fields including data analysis, human resources, non-profit work, social services, education, among many others. Sociologists are uniquely able to be both disciplinary and also have an interdisciplinary perspective, one that emphasizes empathy, diversity, and cultural competence.
What will help Political Analysts increase their earning potential?
Dr. Sarah Prior Ph.D.: I would encourage recent graduates to seek opportunities to demonstrate their diverse skill set and to seek opportunities for additional growth and development.
James Garand
Emogene Pliner Distinguished ProfessorLouisiana State University and A&M College
Political Science And Government
What general advice would you give to a Political Analyst?
James Garand: The best thing about being a political science major is that you get to study politics, which is a topic that draws the interest of many students. Moreover, doing work in government and/or politics can be very rewarding work, and for those who pursue the Ph.D. and an academic career the ability to work closely with and mentor students is also very rewarding. The only real negative about studying politics is that we are in the midst of a period of contentious politics, with polarization in the mass public and among government officials creating what is for some people a distasteful political environment. For some students contentious politics makes politics particularly interesting, but for other students the contentious nature of politics today might stifle their interest in the subject. Overall, though, if one is interested in politics, political science is the appropriate major, and there are many job opportunities, particularly for those interested enough in pursuing an advanced degree in the law, public administration, public policy, international studies, or in political science itself at the Ph.D. level.
What Political Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
James Garand: Political science is always a good field to study if one is interested in pursuing a career as a lawyer, to work in local/state/federal government, to pursue advanced study in public administration, public policy, or international studies, or to pursue the Ph.D. and seek an academic career.
What will help Political Analysts increase their earning potential?
James Garand: There are not many jobs called “political scientist” for someone with only an undergraduate degree in political science. Most “political scientists” have advance degrees, usually a Ph.D., and are professors in colleges and universities around the country. Instead, students with an undergraduate degree in political science should be able to develop the skill set that can propel them into a career requiring what one learns in a standard liberal arts education—hopefully, the development of good writing skills, analytical and critical thinking, and a strong work ethic. These are skills that have broad applicability in the labor force. For many of our students, the political science degree is a gateway degree in the pursuit of an advanced degree. First, a very large share of our students are interested in going to law school and pursuing a career as an attorney. The political science major requires the development of strong writing, analytical, and critical thinking skills, and the subject matter of this major also means that students can learn about both the structure of the U.S. government and, more importantly, the characteristics of the U.S. judicial system. Many of our students take courses on judicial politics, constitutional law, and civil rights and liberties, and these courses provide the basics for students interested in a career in the law. Second, some of our students pursue a master’s degree in public administration, public policy, or international studies to support a career working in government, for a non-profit policy organization, or doing work abroad. Often this involves an internship while students are still enrolled in our undergraduate program, and combining classroom learning and an internship can give them the skill set to pursue this kind of job or to move on to a master’s program. Third, some undergraduate students in political science do work in quantitative methods and statistics in a political science department, and this prepares them for work as an political or policy analyst, either for a government organization or for a political party or other political organization. There is an increased demand for job candidates interested in politics and government and who have quantitative methods skills, so students who are so inclined can pursue this kind of training and become competitive for employment, particularly if coupled with a master’s degree in public administration of public policy. And finally, some of our best students pursue the Ph.D. in political science and seek out a career as a political science professor. One must really be interested in politics and a life of the mind to pursue this option, but we get a number of students who are so inclined and who have gone on to receive the Ph.D. and have successful academic careers.
What general advice would you give to a Political Analyst?
Dr. Paul Croll Ph.D.: Look for ways to apply what you have learned in your first jobs after graduating. Our majors learn a lot of valuable skills as well as competencies to help them understand and relate to others. There are often are opportunities to use these skills as you start your career. Build on what you have learned!
What Political Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Paul Croll Ph.D.: Look for opportunities that leverage your strengths. Tell potential employers what you have learned and why you can help them succeed. The best way to maximize your salary is to succeed in your job and look for opportunities to advance in your field.
What will help Political Analysts increase their earning potential?
Dr. Paul Croll Ph.D.: Critical thinking and initiative are important and will continue to be prevalent in the coming years. A degree in Sociology and Anthropology challenges students to think critically about their world and life experiences. This can be invaluable in any field after graduation.
What general advice would you give to a Political Analyst?
Paul Kowert: Maximizing one’s salary potential is, at least in part, a question of the fit between one’s skills and job opportunities. There are many sorts of opportunities. For example, most large towns and cities in the United States are governed using a council-manager system, and there is a considerable need for individuals with the policy skills and training to serve in local government. Policy training is also relevant at the state and federal level, but other sorts of skills—such as relevant language training, statistical training, and more specialized knowledge about parts of the government, the law, or regions of the world—may also come into play for certain careers. Building these skills in college will give you an advantage as you seek better positions.
What Political Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Paul Kowert: There are many career opportunities for students studying political science and international relations and, if anything, these opportunities are growing! The public sector is extensive, and much of it also includes jobs with some international dimension. This is not only true at the federal level, but also in state and even local government. My advice is unglamorous: the most important skills one gets from college are also the most straightforward. Improving one’s writing and quantitative skills and honing one’s ability to think clearly through complex matters will have lasting benefits. We underestimate their importance because it’s hard to see how writing one more paper in a college course will make a difference. But cumulatively, the work you do in college will give you an advantage. By the time students arrive in college, many are already thinking of a career. Once in college, therefore, it’s tempting to focus primarily on career-relevant skills. I would also advise students to remember, however, that college offers the opportunity to expand one’s intellectual horizons. Take an art history course, a physics course, an anthropology course…. College gives you the opportunity to make yourself a more well-rounded person.
What will help Political Analysts increase their earning potential?
Paul Kowert: Two sets of skills are (and will remain) of great importance in political science and international relations. The first is policy analysis—the ability to assess policies at different levels of government, to understand how they came into being, who they serve, and how they might (or might not) be changed. Political science classes will greatly improve your ability to answer such questions. Second, linguistic skills are crucial—not only the ability to think and communicate clearly, but also (ideally) the ability to do so in multiple languages. For some careers, it’s also an advantage to have a working knowledge of statistical analysis, but there are also many careers in political science and international relations that don’t require a mathematical background.
What Political Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Oscar Miller Ph.D.: Graduates should realize that almost every organization has positions that require sociological skills, learn how to communicate how those skills translate to the workplace, set career goals, and continue to develop and adapt those skills throughout one’s career.
What will help Political Analysts increase their earning potential?
Oscar Miller Ph.D.: Sociology majors are skilled in understanding social behavior and in developing, organizing, and critically analyzing large amounts of information, drawing evidence-based conclusions, and effectively communicating conclusions for strategic planning, program/project evaluation and improvement, and organization decision-making. Research and analytical skills will remain important over the next 3-5 years with a growing focus on inter-group and international relations.
What general advice would you give to a Political Analyst?
Michael Rosenfeld: Young people starting out in the labor market need to be willing to work hard, they need to be willing to learn, and they need to be ready to put in some social and emotional labor to build personal connections so that they can find new opportunities and grow. I should add that Sociology majors go into all kinds of fields: law, education, finance, marketing, non-profit work, social activism, technology, real estate and more. There is no single pathway forward so Sociology majors are trained to be flexible and to have the skills to adapt to any new situation.
What Political Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Michael Rosenfeld: Ability to analyze and understand data has always been important and will be more important in the future. Also important are the ability read and learn, and the ability to write and communicate so that the young person’s ideas can find an audience within the organization and potentially have influence. If young people want to lead, they need to be able to communicate ideas to all kinds of stake holders and groups.
What will help Political Analysts increase their earning potential?
Michael Rosenfeld: Knowledge is power. Young people starting out should know what others in their field are earning, so they can ask for a commensurate salary. One way to know what others are earning is to have a well-developed network of friends and contacts who are in the same field, and to ask them honest questions. People who build their personal networks and nurture them end up being more informed.
What general advice would you give to a Political Analyst?
Dr. Mikel Norris: Several. First, data analytics is always an important skill for new graduates to have. We live in a data-driven world. Political Science (as a major) is a data-driven discipline. We try to train our political science majors in data analytics not just because we analyze data in our research, but also because data analytics is a vital skill for people in today’s workforce. A new graduate who can proudly state on a resume that they can analyze data and are familiar with how to use programs and software to analyze data (R, Python, Stata, SPSS ArcGIS, etc.) immediately improve their chances of getting a job over someone who does not have those skills. Second, I believe all students, regardless of discipline, need to quickly become as fluent as they can be in AI and AI-based technologies. I tell my students all the time that “AI is to you today what the internet was to me and my generational cohort in college in the 1990s.” Back then we recognized the incredible potential (but maybe not the pitfalls) of the internet. Those who got on that bandwagon early are doing very well for themselves today. AI is the same thing. In the end, millions of people will discover the many ways AI can change the world for better or worse. Those who get in the game early are the ones who will most likely be rewarded the most and, because of their knowledge, will guide its development over the next 30 years, let alone 3-5 years. Oh yeah, they will also guarantee job security for themselves for the foreseeable future! Finally, some underappreciated skills political science majors have that are and will always be important are managerial, leadership, and organizational skills. These skills will always be important as long as people come together in any form to achieve a common objective. People don’t just develop these skills in business schools. The study of political science is the study of human interaction. Understanding how people interact and the consequences that arise from those interactions will always be an important skill to have as long as people work together.
What Political Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Mikel Norris: My answer to this question is related to my answer to question #1. You maximize your salary potential by becoming valuable in your organization. You can’t become valuable unless you’re willing to learn, develop skills relevant to your job, and put yourself out there on projects and other tasks so you can develop those skills. Again, most new graduates are generalists. Generality is important, and all of us need to retain it regardless of where our careers take us. But graduates need to ask themselves: What can I do where I work so that I become invaluable to my organization? Once they can answer that question, they need to pursue the answer with all their strength. This is why I hate it when people say that graduates should “follow their passion” to get their job. This is stupid. Very few people end up in jobs they’re passionate about after college. Rather, find a place where you can become valuable. Once you find out where and what that its, pursue it passionately. This is how you find a home – and a bigger salary – in your job.
What will help Political Analysts increase their earning potential?
Dr. Mikel Norris: Always be ready to learn, and always be ready to help or volunteer for a project. College students in all majors develop particular skills while in college, but typically they are generalists when they enter the job market, and rarely have expertise or specific qualifications. New graduates beginning their careers need to start work with a mindset that, while they don’t know everything there is to know about their new job, they are completely capable and willing to learn and become an expert on what they need to know. College trains all graduates to have this mindset – regardless of their major. All students begin a class with minimal to no understanding of the subject matter and emerge at the end of a class with a great deal more knowledge and understanding than they had before. If a self-aware graduate enters their work life with this mindset, they will quickly realize that they have done this before many times over the previous four years. This new experience (work) is just the same thing but in a different forum. I also think volunteering for projects is really a great way to develop knowledge and expertise in your work, and to show just how willing they are to learn and develop new skills. It also gives graduates a chance to stand out and show what they are capable of – that is, if they complete their task successfully! For example, one year after I graduated I was working for a mutual fund company that was chosen to operate Indiana’s 529 college investment plan. I volunteered to be on the start-up team so that I could learn about the plans, and also to more fully understand what it would take to run the plan. Our startup was successful, and for the next four years that I worked for the mutual fund, I was considered a go-to person in my department for questions about the plan. I believe these are the types of invaluable experiences new graduates need to have in order to be successful in their early careers.
What Political Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Marcella Gemelli Ph.D.: To maximize salary potential when starting a career in Sociology, it is essential to showcase a strong background in education, a keen interest in technology, the ability to design innovative learning experiences, apply sociological insights to enhance organizational effectiveness, display high emotional intelligence, and have strong writing, communication, and presentation skills.
What will help Political Analysts increase their earning potential?
Marcella Gemelli Ph.D.: Graduating with an undergraduate degree in Sociology is exciting. I am a dedicated sociologist with a Ph.D. and a passion for fostering learning and development within organizations. With a strong background in education and a keen interest in technology, I excel in designing innovative learning experiences and applying sociological insights to enhance organizational effectiveness. I am an approachable team member who listens with empathy and displays high emotional intelligence. Strong writing, communication, and presentation skills.
What general advice would you give to a Political Analyst?
Michelle Edwards Ph.D.: While the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts future job growth for sociologists, not all people who study sociology become “sociologists” (as defined by the BLS). As a sociology professor, I am dedicated to helping students develop skills in critical thinking, collaboration, cultural awareness, interpersonal communication, and data literacy. These are some of the same skills predicted to be critical for future jobs.
What Political Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Michelle Edwards Ph.D.: People with sociology degrees go into a wide variety of jobs in fields such as education and research, non-profit and social service work, government, human resources, health care, business and marketing, and criminal justice. As a result, what sociologists do on a day-to-day basis also varies. If you are entering the field as a sociologist, it might be more helpful to consider the roles and responsibilities of a particular job (e.g., data analyst, human resources representative, urban planner).
What will help Political Analysts increase their earning potential?
Michelle Edwards Ph.D.: I think many people are drawn to the field of sociology because it helps to explain the world around them. I tell my students that everyone can find something that interests them in our field. However, hearing others’ perspectives on social issues, especially when they differ from our own perspectives, can be challenging. It can also be frustrating to frequently think about the social and environmental problems we face. For me, the best part of being a sociologist is engaging with curious and thoughtful students. I am very thankful to be in this field.
Laura Napolitano PhD
Chair - Department of Sociology, Anthropology and Criminal Justice, Associate Professor of SociologyWhat will help Political Analysts increase their earning potential?
Laura Napolitano PhD: Data analysis continues to be important and will be for the foreseeable future. Whether it is qualitative or quantitative, the ability to analyze data is crucial and sociology majors have this in spades. It will also continue to be important to be able to sift through information and misinformation and identify what is real and what is just “noise.” The data analysis and research skills you developed in the classroom will continue to be beneficial in these tasks.
What general advice would you give to a Political Analyst?
Dr. Gregory Leslie: Students have gone on to join political campaigns, work with congress members, or enter consulting roles.
What Political Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Gregory Leslie: Students appreciate the variety of roles available in politics-specific jobs, while the diversity of fields can be overwhelming.
What will help Political Analysts increase their earning potential?
Dr. Gregory Leslie: Political science degrees offer broad applications in law school, grad school, or consulting roles.
What general advice would you give to a Political Analyst?
Brian Lasher: Knowledge is often specific to a given institution or situation, while skill sets are transferable. While most people assume political scientists are best suited for government, campaigns, law, and education, the skill sets they possess open up a whole range of career possibilities. Data analysis and understanding behaviors is a useful skill in any business, including industry, banking, insurance and administration. Thus, a political science graduate should keep their options open. The most important consideration, however, is that you do well in whatever class you are taking or whatever your position you hold at work. An employer will consider your performance in class or the position you are in as an indicator of how hard you are willing to work, how focused you are, and how capable you are of understanding new concepts and meeting deadlines. Never underestimate the power of past performance.
What Political Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Brian Lasher: In general, a political scientist studies political behavior and institutions. All political scientists conduct research and provide analysis. However, it depends upon whether one is a generalist or a specialist. For example, a generalist would have a broad understanding of organizations and behaviors. They often help to develop theories that can be applied to predict behaviors and outcomes across a wide range of activities. Their focus is generally strategic, or developing a bigger picture. On the other hand, while specialists may also develop theories and strategies, they are more concerned with specific institutions, and thus more likely to recommend specific policies. They are also experts in institutional knowledge, procedures and rules. Both generalists and specialists are needed in government, education and many other fields. In government and in most fields, the lower the level, the more likely you are to specialize. The focus is more tactical or operational. As you become more senior, the trend is generally to become more of a jack of all trades and the view becomes more strategic. However, the opposite is true in education. High school teachers and lower-level academic courses in universities are mostly survey courses, while upper-level courses are generally more focused. In any field, but especially in government and education, a good political scientist should also be well-read in history, and especially in the field in which they are conducting their research.
What will help Political Analysts increase their earning potential?
Brian Lasher: Political scientists can be very helpful in analyzing behaviors and developing models, and some of the theories they develop help explain a complex world. A good political scientist also provides data useful to decision makers. When a political scientist recognizes a trend before others, or can explain something that others find confusing, it is personally very rewarding. On the other hand, much is expected of political scientists, and it is very difficult to be impartial. It is often said that one should never discuss religion, politics, or sex in polite company, but all three are political, because all involve the interaction with others. Since all of us have an opinion, remaining objective can be a challenge, especially when confronted by people who have strong held beliefs that are contradictory to what the evidence shows. Thus, to be a good political scientist one must have a great deal of integrity, and not be afraid of being criticized when the view is not popular.
What will help Political Analysts increase their earning potential?
Larry Liu: In the sociology field, we equip our students with deep theoretical knowledge, analytical skills to dissect newspaper stories, parse statistics and conduct statistical analysis themselves. They are also taught how to listen and observe people, interview them and collect qualitative data. More recently, our field has expanded to involve computational social science: we are using AI tools to help us conduct statistical and textual analysis. As AI continues to get better, it is still important to use uniquely human skills that are qualitative: coming up with research questions, observing and interacting with people and telling stories. These liberal arts skills are going to become more valuable, as AI gets better and takes on many tedious and analytical tasks.