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Is being a political scientist a good fit for you?

Studies governments and political systems, including public opinion and how decisions get made.

What the work involves

  • Teaches political science to university students.
  • Develops and tests theories using interviews, newspapers, court cases, historical papers, polls and statistics.
  • Keeps up to date with government policy decisions.
  • Shares research results through academic publications, reports and public talks.

The interests that suit it

People in this work tend to be curious, creative and persuading. Here is how much each of the six kinds of interest comes into it.

Hands-onLow. Building, fixing, and working with tools, machines, animals or the outdoors.
CuriousStrong. Finding things out, solving problems, and working with ideas and data.
CreativeSome. Making things: art, writing, music, design and performance.
HelpingLow. Teaching, caring for and supporting people.
PersuadingSome. Leading, selling, and making the calls.
OrganisingSome. Keeping things in order: records, numbers and systems.

What it tends to reward

Compared with other work, this job stands out for:

  • Mastery. Getting really good at something over time.
  • Security. Steady work in a well-run organisation.
  • Achievement. Progress, recognition, ambitious goals.

How much training it needs

Degree required. Usually a degree, sometimes more study after. Rules differ from country to country, so check locally before you commit.

Find out if it fits you

Answer quick questions about what you like doing and what keeps you going. We match you with roles from over 900 kinds of work, and you can see if a political scientist is one of yours.

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