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Phd In Political Science Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Clc

Adjunct Faculty, Political Science

Grayslake, IL · On-site

The Adjunct Faculty will teach classes in Political Science. The faculty member will be responsible for developing instructional materials including course plans, syllabi, objectives, and evaluation ...

DePaul

Part Time Faculty, Political Science

Chicago, IL · On-site

$4.5K - $5.6K/wk

Screening of individuals in the pool is ongoing, depending on curricular need and funding ... The Department of Political Science within the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences at ...

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All JobsPhd In Political Science JobsPhd In Political Science Jobs in Chicago, IL

Phd In Political Science information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$25.2K

$49.9K

$81.4K

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

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for phd in political science in Chicago, IL is $49,850.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,700.00 and $53,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

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.

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, but median annual earnings for political science professors range from $70,000 to over $120,000, with those in tenured roles or in government and think tanks earning higher salaries.

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 are popular job titles related to Phd In Political Science jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Phd In Political Science jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Phd In Political Science jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Phd In Political Science jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Phd In Political Science jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Phd In Political Science job openings:

Phd In Political Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Phd In Political Science job openings in Chicago, IL as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 48% Full Time, 48% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,850 per year, or $24 per hour.

Assistant Professor of Political Science

Chicago, IL • On-site

The University of Chicago
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 10K+ employees
Learn more about The University of Chicagoexternal

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago

University Of Chicago rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 47 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Description
The University of Chicago, Division of the Social Sciences, Department of Political Science invites applications for a tenure track position at the rank of assistant professor of American Politics for an initial 4 year renewable term. We welcome applications from the entire subfield of American politics. This is a full-time position with an expected start date on or after July 1, 2027.
The selected candidate will pursue their own research agenda, collaborate with faculty in the Department of Political Science and other areas of the Division of the Social Sciences and University, and teach in both the undergraduate and graduate curriculum. The teaching load for tenure-track positions is typically four courses per year on the quarter system. Additional responsibilities include advising at all levels of the program, and service on departmental and university committees.
This position is benefits-eligible. The University of Chicago offers a wide range of benefits programs and resources for eligible employees, including health, retirement, and paid time off. Information about the benefit offerings can be found in the Benefits Guidebook.
Qualifications
All requirements for receipt of a PhD in a relevant field must be completed prior to the start of the appointment.
We seek applicants with an ambitious research agenda yielding active and innovative scholarship. Successful applicants will contribute to the scholarly community of the department and university. They will have the ability or potential to be an excellent teacher in the university's core curriculum, in introductory to advanced undergraduate courses in Political Science, and in graduate courses related to their area of expertise. We especially welcome applicants with a demonstrated strong commitment to teaching and advising.
Application Instructions
To be considered, those interested must apply through The University of Chicago, Academic Recruitment job board, which uses Interfolio to accept applications: https://apply.interfolio.com/191666.
Applications must include a 1) cover letter, 2) CV, 3) teaching statement, 4) research statement, 5) one example of scholarly writing, and 6) at least three confidential letters of recommendation.
Consideration of applications will begin thirty days after the position has been posted and continue until the position is filled or the search has ended.

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