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Phd In Political Science Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Complementary degree in political science, communications, or relevant field. MSc/PhD in statistics, applied mathematics, computer science, operational research, economics or related discipline (i.e ...

Complementary degree in political science, communications, or relevant field. MSc/PhD in statistics, applied mathematics, computer science, operational research, economics or related discipline (i.e ...

Relevant background in Political Science, Public Administration, Public Policy, or similar professions. Bonus Points (The Ideal Candidate) * Experience as a Professional Staff Member: First hand ...

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Phd In Political Science information

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$24.3K

$48K

$78.3K

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

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for phd in political science in Virginia is $47,976.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,200.00 and $51,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is it worth getting a PhD in political science?

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 specialized roles, it typically involves several years of study and may have limited direct entry-level opportunities outside academia or research institutions.

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 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.

How much do people with a PhD in political science make?

Individuals with a PhD in political science often work as university professors, researchers, or policy analysts. Salaries vary by position and experience, with academic faculty earning between $60,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on the institution and location.
What are popular job titles related to Phd In Political Science jobs in Virginia? For Phd In Political Science jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Phd In Political Science jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Phd In Political Science job openings:
Infographic showing various Phd In Political Science job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 32% Full Time, and 68% Part Time. Highlights an 80% In-person, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,976 per year, or $23.1 per hour.

Assistant Professor, U.S. Politics & Political Institutions

Virginia Tech

Blacksburg, VA

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago


Virginia Tech rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 65 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

228th of 617 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Assistant Professor, U.S. Politics & Political Institutions

Apply now Back to search results Job no: 536898
Work type: Teaching & Research Faculty
Senior management: Liberal Arts and Human Sciences
Department: Political Science
Location: Blacksburg, Virginia
Categories: Instructional / Teaching Faculty

Job Description

The Department of Political Science invites applications for a tenure-track position of assistant professor in U.S. politics and political institutions with strengths in one or more of the following: U.S. national and subnational institutions, judicial politics, U.S. and/or state constitutional law, law and courts, civil rights, and related fields. Candidates with additional specializations in historical institutionalism, voting rights, and jurisprudence including critical legal studies are also encouraged to apply. Teaching requirements for this position will be four courses a year, including a selection of undergraduate courses on U.S. political institutions, constitutional law, judicial process, and additional courses within the candidate's specialization. Candidates may also be expected to contribute to advising pre-law students from throughout the University.

How to Apply

Screening of applications will begin September 21, 2026. Please submit:

  • Curriculum vitae
  • Cover letter
  • Recent writing Sample
  • Teaching evaluations or portfolio
  • A list of three references (names, address, phone numbers, and email contacts)

Please direct questions to Dr. Nicholas Goedert, Search Committee Chair, Department of Political Science, Major Williams Hall (0130), Blacksburg, VA 24061. Phone: (540) 231-7665, email: ngoedert@vt.edu.

Required Qualifications

  • Earned doctorate in government or political science at the time of application or degree in hand by hire date, August 2027.
  • An active research agenda with strengths in U.S. political institutions including one or more of the fields listed above.
  • Demonstrated effectiveness in undergraduate and graduate teaching to meet the department's key teaching needs in its B.A. and M.A. programs.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Preference will be given to broadly trained candidates who have grounding and skills in a variety of theoretical, analytical, and methodological approaches, and who can work with undergraduate and graduate students at the master's and doctoral levels in political science and related fields.
  • Prior teaching experience at the undergraduate and/or graduate level is preferred.
Overtime Status

Exempt: Not eligible for overtime

Appointment Type

Regular

Salary Information

Commensurate with Experience, range $72,000 to $82,000

Hours per week

*

Review Date

September 21, 2026

Additional Information

The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.

About Virginia Tech

Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including Blacksburg, the greater Washington, D.C. area, the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke, sites in Newport News and Richmond, and numerous Extension offices and research institutes. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $650 million in research annually.

Virginia Tech endorses and encourages participation in professional development opportunities and university shared governance.  These valuable contributions to university shared governance provide important representation and perspective, along with opportunities for unique and impactful professional development.

Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, ethnicity or national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military status, or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the compensation of other employees or applicants, or on any other basis protected by law.

If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Kim Hedge at khedge@vt.edu during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.

Advertised: July 6, 2026
Applications close:

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About Virginia Tech

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Virginia Tech, guided by its motto "Ut Prosim" (That I May Serve), embraces a hands-on, interdisciplinary approach to educate scholars as leaders and problem-solvers. As a comprehensive land-grant institution, it enriches the quality of life in Virginia and worldwide, fostering an inclusive community focused on knowledge, discovery, and creativity. With over 280 majors, the university serves a diverse student body of more than 36,000 across undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. Virginia Tech's presence extends throughout Virginia, including campuses in Northern Virginia, Roanoke, Newport News, and Richmond, along with multiple Extension offices and research centers. As a prominent global research institution, it conducts over $500 million in research annually.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Blacksburg, VA, US

Year founded

1872

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