Completing a PhD in Political Science is not only incredibly rewarding, but it opens up a wide range of career possibilities, and opportunities for growth within your current path.
A PhD in political science will equip you with critical thinking skills, a deep understanding of political practices and theories, the ability to conduct in depth research, and the capability for complex political analysis. These skills will open doors to numerous political science careers, each offering unique challenges and rewards.
Choosing to study political science degrees is a great way to launch a career that helps others, and even if you’re currently only a political science major or studying for your master’s degree, it’s never too early to think about the options that will be open to you if you choose to take your passion to the doctoral level,
So, if you’re studying a political science degree and are considering a PhD, we’ve outlined some potential careers in political science that you could apply for after your graduation.
Academia Careers in Political Science
What does a career in academia look like?
Working in academia is one of the most traditional and sought-after career paths for political science PhD graduates. As a professor or researcher at universities and colleges, you’ll have the opportunity to engage in teaching and research.
You’ll likely be responsible for developing and delivering lessons to your students, as well as contributing to the academic community through the publishing of your research in the form of scholarly articles.
Impact of a professor of political science
An academic career in political science will offer the opportunity to the next generation of political science graduates and contribute to the body of knowledge in the field. And, as a professor, you’ll have the freedom to pursue research interests, explore new political theories, and influence public policy through your findings.
Challenges faced by those working in academia
Of course, it’s important to remember that the academic path is highly competitive, with a limited number of positions available. Depending on your chosen institution, you may also find the pressure to publish and secure funding for research intense. However, despite these challenges, academia remains a fulfilling career for those passionate about research and teaching political science students.
Political Science Careers in Government and Public Policy
What does a career in government and public policy look like?
As a Political Science PhD graduate, you may find that government and public policy work offers you the rewarding career that you’re looking for. These roles will typically involve analyzing and developing policies put forward by government officials, conducting research on political and social issues, and evaluating public programs and how effective they are.
Positions can be found at various levels of government, including local and national, as well as in international relations.
Opportunities for political scientists in government and public policy
Working in government and public policy can give you the opportunity to directly influence the creation and implementation of political structures and policies that affect people’s everyday lives.
As a political scientist, you can bring the expertise that you gained during your degree in political science to bear on issues such as healthcare, education, and environmental policy. This career path will offer you the chance to contribute to the public good and implement your political ideas.
Challenges faced by those working in government agencies and public administration
Working in government and public positions are not without their challenges; they can be subject to political pressures and changes in administration, which may affect the stability of your job. Additionally, navigating bureaucratic structures and the political system can be challenging. However, if you’re committed to public service, this career path offers you the chance to make a difference.
Political Science Careers with Think Tanks and Research Institutes
What does a career at think tanks and research institutes look like?
Think tanks and research institutes provide another exciting career option for you if you hold a political science PhD. These organizations conduct in-depth research on a wide range of political, social, and economic issues.
Researchers at think tanks produce policy reports into political systems, contribute to public debates, and provide expertise to policymakers, lobbying firms, and the public.
What impact do think tanks and research institutes have?
As a political scientist, a career at a think tank will allow you to impact public discourse and policy decisions through rigorous research and analysis.
Think tanks often operate independently, providing a platform for political scientists to express innovative ideas and make evidence-based recommendations. As a researcher, you can specialize in specific areas of political theory such as international relations, comparative politics, or economic development, and tailor your work to your interests and expertise.
Challenges faced by those working in think tanks and research institutes
One of the main challenges that you might encounter while working at a think tank or research institutes is securing funding for your projects. Despite these challenges, this field offers a dynamic environment if you’re passionate about research and policy advocacy.
Careers in Political Consulting
What does a career in political consulting look like?
Political consulting offers another exciting avenue for political science PhD graduates. As a consultant, you’ll provide strategic advice to political parties and candidates, helping to develop their campaign strategies and craft their policy messages.
What opportunities can be gained from a career as a political consultant?
Political consultants play a crucial role in shaping political campaigns and public policy. You will have the opportunity to have a direct impact on election outcomes and decision making.
By choosing this career path, you’ll be able to apply your political knowledge, analytical talents, and communication skills in a practical, continually evolving environment.
Challenges faced by political consultants
While a career as a political consultant is rewarding, it can also be highly competitive and subject to the ever changing of political cycles.
Your success in the field will often depend on your ability to build a strong network and reputation. Luckily, there are numerous organisations, such as the American Political Science Association, who host events and conferences where you can build your network.
Political Science Careers in Legal and Regulatory Affairs
What does a career in legal and regulatory affairs look like?
A PhD in political science can also lead to careers in legal and regulatory affairs. As a political scientist in this field, you’ll work on regulatory compliance, legal research, and advocacy.
You may find career opportunities in law firms or corporations, who are looking for political advice and analysis decision making and regulation processes.
The impact of a carer in legal and regulatory affairs
Depending on your other qualifications, this career path can enable you to directly impact the development and implementation of laws and regulations, ensuring that they are fair and effective.
As a political scientist in a legal or regulatory role, you can contribute to the protection of public interests and promote justice in various sectors.
Challenges faced by those who work in legal and regulatory affairs
A career in legal and regulatory affairs requires you to have a strong understanding of the law and a variety of regulatory frameworks, and this may necessitate additional education – such as a law degree. However, if you do meet the criteria for this career path, it will offer you a unique opportunity to combine political and legal expertise in order to help improve the lives of everyday people.
Careers in Political Journalism
What does a career in political journalism look like
Political journalism presents another compelling career option if you hold a political science PhD . Political journalists report on political events and analyze developments in policy.
What impact do political journalists have
As a political journalist, you’ll play a critical role in keeping the public informed on issues that will directly affect their lives. You’ll have the power to influence public opinion and hold politicians accountable for their actions and decisions.
Your work in this field will give you the chance to engage with a broad audience and contribute to the democratic process in a meaningful way.
Challenges faced by political journalists
Journalism is a fast-paced industry that can be subject to pressures from media ownership and audience preferences. Plus, due to the increasingly digital world in which we live, the landscape of journalism has transformed, and will require you to be able to adapt to new formats and platforms.
Political Science Careers in the Private Sector
What might a career in the private sector look like?
As a political science PhD graduate, you may also find a rewarding career in the private sector. Companies often seek experts in government relations, corporate social responsibility, and public and political affairs.
Opportunities in the private sector
By working in the private sector you’ll be able to apply your expertise in a business context, helping companies navigate political landscapes. Working in the private sector will also increase your potential for high earnings and professional development.
Challenges faced by those in the private sector
Working in the private sector, particularly in corporate roles, may require you to balance business interests with ethical considerations. However, if you’re interested in how politics and business intersect, this path will offer you a wide range of opportunities and challenges.
A PhD in political science, such as the one we offer at Signum Magnum Collage, will open the door to a huge selection of career paths, each with its own set of opportunities and challenges.
Whether you’re looking to remain in academia or enter the corporate world, you’ll be able to leverage your political science PhD to make a significant impact on society.
The key to your success in careers with a political science degree lies in your ability to identify your personal passions and specific strengths, as well as continuously developing your skills to adapt to an ever-changing political landscape.