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Political Science Degree Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$2.7K/wk

... degree or J.D. in relevant field, PhD. in Political Science preferred. Certifications/Licenses ... Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Preferred Qualifications Equipment Utilized Physical ...

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Political Science Degree information

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$24.5K

$48.4K

$79K

How much do political science degree jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for political science degree in the United States is $48,391.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,500.00 and $52,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is political science a useful degree?

A political science degree provides knowledge of government, policy analysis, and research skills, which are valuable in careers such as government, law, public administration, and advocacy. It also develops critical thinking and communication abilities that are applicable across various fields, though job prospects often depend on additional experience or advanced education.

What can you do with a politics degree?

A political science degree prepares individuals for careers in government, public policy, law, journalism, and nonprofit organizations. It develops skills in research, analysis, communication, and understanding political systems, which are valuable in various roles such as policy analyst, legislative assistant, campaign manager, or public relations specialist.

What types of entry-level roles can I pursue with a political science degree, and how do these roles typically support career advancement?

With a political science degree, you can pursue entry-level positions such as legislative assistant, research analyst, policy coordinator, or public affairs associate. These roles often involve tasks like conducting policy research, preparing reports, supporting advocacy efforts, and assisting in communications. Working in these positions allows you to develop analytical, writing, and networking skills that are highly valued in government, non-profit, and private sector organizations. As you gain experience and build professional relationships, you'll have opportunities to advance into senior policy roles, campaign management, consulting, or specialized research positions.

What can you do with a political science degree?

A political science degree opens up a variety of career paths in government, law, public policy, international relations, journalism, and nonprofit organizations. Graduates often work as policy analysts, legislative assistants, public relations specialists, or pursue further studies in law or graduate school. The degree equips students with skills in research, critical thinking, and communication, making them valuable in both public and private sectors.

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

To thrive as a Political Scientist, you need strong analytical skills, research expertise, and a solid educational background, typically a bachelor's or master's degree in political science or a related field. Familiarity with statistical analysis software (such as SPSS or Stata), data visualization tools, and qualitative research methods is important. Excellent written and verbal communication, critical thinking, and the ability to synthesize complex information are standout soft skills. These skills enable Political Scientists to provide accurate analyses, inform policy decisions, and effectively communicate findings to diverse audiences.

What can I do with a major in political science?

A political science degree prepares individuals for careers in government, public policy, law, international relations, and non-profit organizations. It develops skills in research, analysis, communication, and understanding political systems, which are valuable in roles such as policy analyst, legislative assistant, diplomat, or campaign manager.

What is the difference between Political Science Degree vs Political Analyst?

AspectPolitical Science DegreePolitical Analyst
Required CredentialsDegree in political science or related fieldDegree often in political science, public policy, or related fields; experience may be valued
Work EnvironmentUniversities, research institutions, government agenciesGovernment agencies, think tanks, media outlets, consulting firms
Employer & Industry UsageAcademic, government, non-profit sectorsPolicy analysis, political consulting, media commentary

While a Political Science Degree provides foundational knowledge in politics, government, and research methods, a Political Analyst applies this knowledge to interpret political events, influence policy, and advise organizations. Both roles often overlap in skills and industry settings, but the degree is more academic, whereas the analyst role is more applied and professional.

What professions make 200,000 a year without a degree?

High-paying professions that can reach $200,000 annually without a degree include roles such as commercial pilot, real estate broker, and certain sales manager positions. Success in these fields often depends on experience, skills, licensing, or certifications rather than formal education.
More about Political Science Degree jobs
What cities are hiring for Political Science Degree jobs? Cities with the most Political Science Degree job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Political Science Degree jobs? The most popular types of Political Science Degree jobs are:
What states have the most Political Science Degree jobs? States with the most job openings for Political Science Degree jobs include:
Infographic showing various Political Science Degree job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,391 per year, or $23.3 per hour.

Part-time

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Title: Political Science Instructor

Position Type: Instructor

College: Red Rocks Community College

Division: Academic Affairs

Department: RRCC Political Science

Campus: RRCC Lakewood Campus

Location: Lakewood

Who We Are:

Red Rocks Community College exemplifies extraordinary. We are dedicated to our Vision and Mission, which promote student achievement, staff empowerment, and community engagement. We live our values: Learning, Collaboration, Community, Belonging, and Empowerment.
RRCC seeks applicants who understand and have first-hand experience working with diverse populations, which may include but are not limited to, historically marginalized populations such as people of color, LGBTQ+ community members, veterans, first generation graduates, and people with disabilities.

Job Summary:

Red Rocks Community College seeks dynamic, dedicated, and student-centered individuals to serve as Part-Time Political Science Instructors. Reporting to the Political Science Department Chair, this role is responsible for delivering high-quality instruction in a variety of political science courses, which may include American Government, Introduction to Political Science, Current Political Issues, Comparative Politics and Government, International Relations, and related political science courses across multiple modalities; face-to-face, hybrid, and online. Teaching assignments may take place during daytime, evening, or weekend hours at either of the college’s campuses or online.

The ideal candidate demonstrates a strong commitment to student learning, academic excellence, and equity while fostering an inclusive classroom environment that supports the diverse needs of our student population. Successful candidates will engage students in the study of political institutions, public policy, civic engagement, political behavior, international affairs, and contemporary political issues while helping students develop critical thinking, information literacy, and civic reasoning skills.

All final candidates must designate Colorado as their primary work location, including for online teaching assignments.  This posting is used to fill multiple vacancies. Compensation is based on credit hour/contact hour ratios and ranges from $1,177.73.00 to $1,294.58 per credit hour.
This posting will remain open on a continuous basis, and applicants will be selected as needed until the position is filled or the posting expires. Please note:
• Only applicants selected for interviews will be contacted.
• Completed applications will remain active for 12 months from the date of submission.
• There is no need to reapply during this 12-month period unless there are updates to your application materials.
• After the 12-month period, applicants are welcome to reapply if the position is still open.

Required Knowledge, Skills & Abilities


• Demonstrated ability to work with students, faculty, and staff from diverse backgrounds.
• Demonstrated ability and willingness to teach students using traditional and alternative methods of instruction.
• Demonstrated ability to integrate technology into the classroom.
• Ability to work from campus (primarily our Lakewood campus with occasional hours at the Arvada campus).
• Ability to collaborate in diverse teams while demonstrating respect for differing perspectives and fostering a positive work environment.
• Effective communication, interpersonal, conflict resolution, organization, and time management skills.
• Technology proficiency and familiarity with learning management systems and online instructional tools.

Required Qualifications:

• Master's degree in Political Science OR a Master's degree with at least 18 graduate credit hours in Political Science from an accredited institution.
Tested experience may be used in lieu of the degree requirement on a case-by-case basis.
• Experience teaching and/or training in various subjects within the discipline.
• Demonstrated commitment to continuous professional growth through professional development, assessment, and reflective teaching practices.
Physical & Cognitive Demands
The following are some of the physical and cognitive demands commonly associated with this position.
• Occasionally moves, positions, and transports files and office materials weighing up to 10 lbs.
• This is largely a sedentary role. This position operates in an office environment and constantly uses a computer, and routinely uses standard office equipment including phones, copiers, etc.
• The person in this position constantly communicates with internal and external constituents and students. Must be able to exchange accurate information in these situations.
• Cognitive demands include comparing, copying, computing, compiling, analyzing, coordinating, synthesizing, negotiating, communicating, instructing, and interpersonal skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience teaching Political Science at the college level.
• Experience teaching in face-to-face, hybrid, online, or other non-traditional learning environments.
• Demonstrated knowledge of American political institutions, political behavior, public pol-icy, comparative politics, international relations, civic engagement, and contemporary political issues.
• Experience teaching GT Pathways social science courses.
• Experience using D2L Brightspace or other learning management systems.
• Demonstrated commitment to working with and supporting students from diverse populations, which may include but are not limited to historically marginalized populations, people of color, LGBTQ+ community members, veterans, first-generation college students, adult learners, and individuals with disabilities.

Selection Process:

Candidates will be evaluated based on their qualifications as related to the duties and responsibilities of the position. Candidates may redact any personally identifiable information on their materials including but are not limited to age, date of birth, and dates of attendance and date of graduation for educational institutions. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Application Instructions: 

Advertised Pay
The pay for this position is $1,177.73 to $1,294.58 per credit hour, commensurate with education and experience. This is a part-time, FLSA exempt position and may work up to 28 hours per week, depending on budget and need.
This position has been exempted from the State Classified System.


To Apply
All applicants must submit:
1. Resume
2. Detailed letter of interest (cover letter) addressing the job announcement.
3. Transcripts (Unofficial of graduate and post graduate work)
Candidates will be evaluated based on their qualifications as related to the duties and responsibilities of the position. Candidates may redact any personally identifiable information on their materials including but are not limited to age, date of birth, and dates of attendance and date of graduation for educational institutions. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Visit our Careers website to submit your application.
If you have questions regarding this position, please contact HR@rrcc.edu.

Additional Information/Benefits:

Reasonable Accommodation Statement
Red Rocks Community College provides reasonable accommodation to applicants and employees with disabilities on a case-by-case basis. If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process and/or during the course of employment, please contact Jennifer Matthews, Executive Director of Human Resources, at (303) 914-6298 or Jennifer.Matthews@rrcc.edu.