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Phd In Political Science Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Discipline related certifications PhD or ABD in Political Science. * Experience teaching in a higher education environment in related field to teaching assignment. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Discipline related certifications PhD or ABD in Political Science. * Experience teaching in a higher education environment in related field to teaching assignment. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Police Officer

Edgewater, CO · On-site

$71K - $103K/yr

Associate degree in Political Science, Public Administration, or related field preferred. Graduation from police academy (Colorado POST certified) or currently in academy.

Police Officer

Edgewater, CO · On-site

$71K - $103K/yr

Associate degree in Political Science, Public Administration, or related field preferred. • Graduation from police academy (Colorado POST certified) or currently in academy. Salary Description $71 ...

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Phd In Political Science information

See Colorado salary details

$25.8K

$50.9K

$83.1K

How much do phd in political science jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for phd in political science in Colorado is $50,884.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,500.00 and $54,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is a PhD in Poli Sci worth it?

A PhD in Political Science prepares individuals for academic, research, or policy analysis careers, often requiring strong analytical and writing skills. While it can lead to high-level positions, the degree involves significant time and financial investment, and job prospects outside academia may be competitive and limited. Evaluating personal career goals and the job market is essential before pursuing a PhD in this field.

What is the highest paid job in political science?

The highest paid jobs for individuals with a PhD in political science typically include university tenured professors, senior policy advisors, and government officials such as diplomats or high-level analysts, with salaries often exceeding $100,000 annually. Executive roles in think tanks, international organizations, or consulting firms can also offer high compensation, especially for those with extensive experience and specialized expertise.

What career paths are commonly pursued by individuals with a PhD in Political Science outside of academia?

While many with a PhD in Political Science pursue academic careers, there are also diverse opportunities in government agencies, think tanks, international organizations, nonprofit sectors, and private consulting firms. These roles often involve policy analysis, research, program evaluation, and advising on legislative or diplomatic strategies. Developing strong analytical, writing, and communication skills during your PhD can help you transition into these sectors, where collaboration with interdisciplinary teams and stakeholders is common. Networking and internships during your doctoral studies can further enhance your prospects in non-academic career paths.

What is a PhD in Political Science?

A PhD in Political Science is the highest academic degree in the field, focusing on advanced research, analysis, and theory related to governments, political processes, public policies, and political behavior. Students in these programs typically complete coursework, comprehensive exams, and original research culminating in a dissertation. Graduates often pursue careers in academia, research, policy analysis, or governmental and non-governmental organizations.

What jobs can I do with a PhD in political science?

A PhD in political science prepares individuals for careers in academia as university professors or researchers, as well as roles in government agencies, think tanks, policy analysis, and international organizations. Graduates often utilize skills in research, data analysis, and policy development, and may pursue positions such as policy advisors, political consultants, or public affairs specialists.

What is the difference between Phd In Political Science vs Political Analyst?

AspectPhd In Political SciencePolitical Analyst
Required CredentialsDoctoral degree in Political ScienceBachelor's or Master's in Political Science, related fields, or equivalent experience
Work EnvironmentAcademia, research institutions, think tanksGovernment agencies, media outlets, consulting firms
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research organizationsMedia, government, policy organizations
Common Search & ComparisonAcademic & research focusPractical policy analysis & media commentary

The main difference is that a Phd In Political Science is an advanced academic qualification preparing individuals for research, teaching, or scholarly work, while a Political Analyst applies political science knowledge to analyze current events, policies, and trends for media, government, or consulting roles. Both roles require strong understanding of political systems, but their career paths and work environments differ significantly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a PhD in Political Science, and why are they important?

To thrive as a PhD in Political Science, you need advanced research skills, expertise in political theories, and a doctoral degree in the field. Proficiency with statistical analysis software (such as SPSS, Stata, or R), academic databases, and citation management tools is typical. Strong written and verbal communication, critical thinking, and collaboration skills help set candidates apart. These competencies are vital for producing impactful research, publishing in academic journals, and contributing to policy or academic environments.

Does the FBI like political science majors?

The FBI hires individuals with political science backgrounds for roles in intelligence, analysis, and policy. A political science degree provides skills in research, critical thinking, and understanding government, which are valuable in federal agencies like the FBI. Security clearances and relevant experience are also typically required for such positions.
What cities in Colorado are hiring for Phd In Political Science jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Phd In Political Science job openings:
Infographic showing various Phd In Political Science job openings in Colorado as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 65% Full Time, 30% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 87% In-person, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,884 per year, or $24.5 per hour.
Political Science Affiliate Instructor

Political Science Affiliate Instructor

Metropolitan State University of Denver

Denver, CO • On-site

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Department
Political Science
By applying to this posting, you are entering an applicant pool for affiliate faculty. Screening of applicants will take place when positions come available. The number of these temporary, part-time, non-tenure track academic positions varies from semester to semester, depending on the needs of the program. As such, not everyone in the applicant pool for this position will be contacted and/or selected to teach.
About the University
Established in 1965, Metropolitan State University (MSU Denver) was founded to serve students who were underrepresented in higher education whose life paths and experiences did not fit the traditional mold. Sixty years later, the University continues to serve over 16,000 of Colorado's extraordinary and diverse students, providing them with the foundation on which to build their unique aspirations. As the third largest public institution of higher education in Colorado, MSU Denver is a model university for today's college students.
Proud of its federal designation as a Hispanic-Serving Institution that also offers graduate programs (gHSI) and the only Seal of Excelencia certified institution in Colorado, the University serves the most diverse undergraduate student population in the state, as well as the most first-generation students. Through affordable, flexible, and holistic education, MSU Denver helps students build essential skills grounded in a multicultural and global perspective that lead to undergraduate and graduate degrees, and career and life success.
Position Summary
The Department of Political Science at Metropolitan State University of Denver (MSU Denver) invites applications for part-time affiliate faculty positions to teach introductory courses in political science.
For more information about the Department of Political Science in our College of Letters, Arts, and Sciences, please visit: https://www.msudenver.edu/political-science.
Responsibilities
Affiliate faculty instructors may teach 3 - 9 credit hours of introductory political science courses. Courses may be in the fields of American politics, comparative politics, international relations, law, public policy, and political theory, depending upon the affiliate's expertise and Department needs. Affiliate faculty will teach online or in-person courses, depending on the Department's needs.
An affiliate faculty member's duties may include but are not limited to: teaching assigned classes in person or online by delivering course content to students, preparing course materials and lesson plans, grading student work, providing students with robust feedback in a timely manner, addressing student questions consistent with university, college/school, and department policies, and providing online or in person academic support to students as needed and appropriate for the teaching assignment; providing instruction in assigned classes consistent with the content and learning objectives of the regular course syllabus and, if required, with department course coordination policies; and complying with university-wide student evaluation of instruction policies and peer observation policies. The ability to adapt and learn new modes of instruction is highly encouraged. Candidates need to be sensitive to the educational needs of a diverse student population.
Required Qualifications
Master's degree or higher in Political Science or related field
Preferred Qualifications
  • Ph.D. in Political Science or related field (i.e., Public Administration & International Studies)
  • Higher education teaching experience in Political Science
  • Experience working with and sensitivity to the needs of a diverse population including (but not limited to) students of color, LBGTQ+ students, students from low-income backgrounds, first generation students, students with disabilities, undocumented students, not-traditional students, student veterans, and English language learners

Terms of Employment
Affiliate faculty are part-time, at-will employees hired to teach on a per credit hour basis for specific classes, usually on a semester-by-semester basis. Affiliate faculty are not eligible for benefit coverage under the University's benefit program. All such teaching assignments are dependent on budget and enrollment.
Qualified candidates may be expected to teach in person/on campus upon hire.
Salary for Announcement
The final salary is based on the number of credit hours assigned at a rate determined by university policy.
Rate of pay per credit hour assignment can be between $1264 - $1482.
For more information, please view pay rates under the College of Letters, Arts, and Sciences: Affiliate-Rates-AY-25-26
How to Apply
Candidates must apply online through MSU Denver's career site, https://www.msudenver.edu/careers. Complete applications will include the following materials:
  • Curriculum vitae
  • Cover letter
  • A list of three professional references and their contact information

Applicants will notice on the application portal there is one location (the resume/cover letter submission field) to upload all required materials. Multiple documents can be submitted into this one field; alternatively, merge all documents into one PDF and upload. Once submitted, you will not be able to edit your application.
Official transcripts will be required of the candidate selected for hire.
Closing Date
Open Until Filled
Posting Representative
Katie Lynch
Posting Representative Email
klynch24@msudenver.edu
Benefits
The University's benefits package is comprehensive and offers medical, vision and dental, free RTD pass, tuition reimbursement, as well as a life and supplemental insurance plans, retirement plans and other programs, such as access to a long-term disability (LTD) plan. Visit MSU Denver's benefits website to learn more.
For a brief overview, please see: https://www.msudenver.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/MSU-Benefit-Summary.pdf.
The University will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities throughout the employment application process. To request an accommodation pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, please contact the Human Resources ADA Coordinator at totalrewards@msudenver.edu.
Background Checks
Metropolitan State University of Denver is dedicated to ensuring a safe and secure environment for our faculty, staff, students, and visitors. To Assist in achieving that goal, we conduct background checks on all finalists for positions at the University prior to employment.
Diversity Statement
Metropolitan State University of Denver is a unique, access-oriented campus community that values diversity, equity, and inclusion in all its forms. Our student population consists of nearly 58% first generation students and over 50% students of color. We are a designated Hispanic Serving Institution located in downtown Denver.
We create an equitable learning and working environment in concert with individuals who consistently demonstrate commitment to equity and inclusion. We greatly value the diverse identities and perspectives of our students, faculty, and staff and recognize that in order to achieve a just and equitable society, diversity must go beyond simple representation. It requires critical inquiry and dialogue and a commitment to action. We strive to provide a culture of belonging for all community members to achieve personal and professional success.