Political Scientists are professionals who conduct research on a wide range of subjects, such as relations between countries, the institutions and political life of nations, the politics of small towns or major metropolises. Studying and evaluating topics such as public opinion, political decision-making, ideology and public policy. They analyze the structure and operation of governments, as well as various other entities.
Political Scientist Eligibility
Education Qualification
The main qualification for becoming a Political Scientist is Master’s Degree or PhD in Political Science, Public Administration or a related field.
Political Scientist Required Skills
- Political Scientists should be able to collect, analyze, and interpret data such as election results and public opinion surveys; report on findings, recommendations, and conclusions.
- They should be able to interpret and analyze policies, public issues, legislation, and/or the operations of governments, businesses and organizations.
- They should be able to evaluate programs and policies and make related recommendations to institutions and organizations.
- They should be able to consult with and advise government officials, civic bodies, research agencies, the media, political parties and others concerned with political issues.
Institutes offering Courses for Political Scientist
- Osmania University (OU), Hyderabad
- Maharaja Agrasen College, Delhi
- Deshbandhu College, Delhi
- Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi
How to become a Political Scientist?
One has to follow the given steps for becoming a Political Scientist:
Some of the entry-level positions for Political Scientists are available to those with a Bachelor’s Degree, but higher degrees are required for the majority of positions. Prospects need good quantitative and qualitative skills.
Step 1
Candidates after passing their 12th class with Political Science as one of the subjects can go for further graduation level course in the very subject. There are many institutions offering degrees in this course on their campuses. Admission to these courses is given on the basis of entrance test in some reputed institutions.
Degree Course:
- B.A. (Political Science)
- B.A. (Hons) (Political Science)
Educational qualification
For graduation courses, they should be 12th class pass with Political Science subject.
Step 2
Mostly a Bachelor's Degree is a qualifying one for entry-level positions working in government, industry, research organizations, or consulting firms, political scientists with as a market analyst, research assistant, writer, or policy analyst. Graduates with Master's Degrees in applied specialities usually qualify for most administrative and research positions, while a PhD degree is typically required for college and university teaching positions and for becoming Scientists.
Postgraduate Courses:
- M.A. (International Relations and Political Science)
- M.A. (Political Science and Public Administration)
- M.A. (Political Science)
- M.Phil. (Political Science)
- PhD (Political Science)
Educational qualification
For Postgraduate courses, candidates should have passed their graduation with Political Science related subjects. For further research degrees, they must have Masters’ degree in the very subject with 55% marks in aggregate.
Political Scientist Job Description
A Political Scientist might analyze a public-opinion survey, study election results or public documents, or interview public officials. They may also collaborate with government economists to assess the effects of specific changes in legislation or public policy, such as the effects of the deregulation of industries or of changes in Social Security. Political Scientists also work as policy analysts for government or in labour, political or professional organizations, some of them are non-profit. They gather and analyze information to assist in the planning, development, review and interpretation of government or industrial policies.
Political Scientist Career Prospects
Most of the Political Scientists have regular hours; generally working behind a desk, either alone or in collaboration with other social scientists. They read and write research articles or reports. Many experience the pressures of writing and publishing, as well as those associated with deadlines and tight schedules. Political scientists on foreign assignment must adjust to unfamiliar cultures, climates, and languages. Political Scientists are employed by colleges and universities. They have flexible work schedules, often dividing their time among teaching, research, writing, consulting and administrative responsibilities.
Political Scientist Salary
The salary for a Political Science graduate completely depends upon one’s academic achievements, personal skills and capability such as initially they can earn Rs.10,000 to Rs.15,000. A Political Scientist, after completing his/her studies, can get varied salary packages from different employers. The salary for a Political Scientist can be anywhere around Rs.15,000 for an entry level and can go up to Rs.30,000 with an increase in experience and knowledge.
