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Political Science Graduate Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

AEI

Fall Intern: Office of the President

Washington, DC · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

The ideal candidate will have an exceptional academic background in history, political science ... About AEI Internships AEI internships offer a unique opportunity for undergraduates, graduate ...

ECS

BD & AI Analysis Intern

Fairfax, VA · On-site

ECS Federal is seeking a motivated college Junior or Senior (or recent college graduate) to join ... Political Science, or related field * 1+ years of work experience * 1+ years of hands-on experience ...

10a Labs

Research Fellow

Washington, DC · On-site

$32.50/hr

Requirements: * Bachelor's degree in international relations, political science, economics ... S. * $25 per hour for undergraduate students * $32.50 per hour for graduate students * Flexible ...

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All JobsPolitical Science Graduate JobsPolitical Science Graduate Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

Political Science Graduate information

See Silver Spring, MD salary details

$25.3K

$50K

$81.7K

How much do political science graduate jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for political science graduate in Silver Spring, MD is $50,025.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,800.00 and $53,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Which job is best after MA political science?

After earning an MA in political science, common career options include roles such as policy analyst, government affairs specialist, public relations officer, or research analyst. These positions often require strong research, communication, and analytical skills, and may involve working in government agencies, think tanks, NGOs, or political consulting firms.

What can I do with a degree in political science?

A political science graduate can pursue careers in government, public policy, law, international relations, or non-profit organizations. These roles often require strong research, analytical, and communication skills, and may involve working in offices, agencies, or advocacy groups.

What types of entry-level roles are commonly available to political science graduates, and how can I determine which path best suits my interests?

Political science graduates often find entry-level opportunities in government agencies, non-profit organizations, public policy research, political campaigns, and consulting firms. To determine which path aligns with your interests, consider the aspects of your studies you enjoyed most—such as policy analysis, research, or community engagement—and seek internships or informational interviews in those areas. Many graduates start as research assistants, legislative aides, or policy analysts, gaining valuable experience and networking opportunities that can lead to more specialized roles. Exploring a variety of roles early on can help you identify the work environment and responsibilities that suit you best.

What is the difference between Political Science Graduate vs Policy Analyst?

AspectPolitical Science GraduatePolicy Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in Political Science or related fieldBachelor's or master's degree in Political Science, Public Policy, or related field
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, NGOs, research institutions, think tanksGovernment departments, think tanks, consulting firms, advocacy groups
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across public sector, non-profits, research organizationsPrimarily in policy development, analysis, and advocacy roles
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

While a Political Science Graduate typically holds a bachelor's degree and works in various public sector or research settings, a Policy Analyst often has additional training or experience in policy analysis and works specifically on developing and evaluating policies. Both roles share similar educational backgrounds and work environments, but Policy Analysts usually focus more on policy formulation and impact assessment.

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

To thrive as a Political Science Graduate, you need strong analytical thinking, research abilities, and a solid understanding of political systems, often backed by a bachelor's degree in political science or related fields. Familiarity with data analysis tools, statistical software (such as SPSS or Stata), and policy research platforms is commonly expected. Outstanding written and verbal communication, critical thinking, and adaptability are essential soft skills for engaging with complex issues and diverse audiences. These skills and qualifications are crucial for effectively analyzing policies, communicating findings, and contributing to informed decision-making in governmental, nonprofit, or private sector roles.

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

While most high-paying professions typically require a degree, some roles such as commercial pilots, real estate brokers, and certain sales managers can earn $200,000 or more annually through experience, commissions, or certifications. These jobs often demand specialized skills, licenses, or extensive industry knowledge rather than formal college degrees.

What are political science graduates?

Political science graduates are individuals who have completed a degree in political science, a field that studies government systems, political behavior, public policies, and international relations. They develop strong analytical, research, and communication skills, which are valuable in a wide range of careers. Political science graduates often pursue roles in government, public administration, policy analysis, international organizations, journalism, or continue their education in law or graduate school.

What is the best job after political science?

Political science graduates often pursue careers as policy analysts, government officials, political consultants, or public affairs specialists. These roles typically require strong research, communication, and analytical skills, and may benefit from internships or relevant certifications. The best job depends on individual interests and additional qualifications.
What job categories do people searching Political Science Graduate jobs in Silver Spring, MD look for? The top searched job categories for Political Science Graduate jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:
Political Science Graduate jobs near you

Supervisory Foreign Affairs Officer

Department of State - Agency Wide

Washington, DC • On-site, Remote

$169K - $197K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

Summary
This position is located in the Department of State (DOS), Bureau of Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs, Office of Environmental Quality (OES/ENV). OES/ENV leads the development and implementation of United States (U.S.) foreign policy that supports international efforts to reduce the impacts of toxic chemicals, hazadous waste, ozone layer depletion, and air pollution.
Learn more about this agency
Duties
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  • Represents the Bureau and Office at a variety of high-level environmental policy meetings within DOS and with senior interagency partners regarding environmental topics such as toxic chemicals, hazardous waste, and air pollution.
  • Serves as principal advisor to the Office Director in the formulation, interpretation, and implementation of all environmental policies, programs, and procedures that are within the Offices mandate.
  • Directs the efforts of employees, contractors, and non-career appointment staff, including fellows, paid/unpaid interns, and temporary appointees and determines goals, plans, and resource needs for subordinate subsections.
  • Reviews and clears responses to Congressional requests for information, and oversees the preparation of environmental program reports, recommendations, and other written materials prepared by the divisions for consideration by senior policy makers.
  • The incumbent serves as the full deputy to the Office Director and shares fully with the Director in providing the overall direction, management, and policy guidance for all the environmental functions and activities of the Office.

Requirements
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Conditions of employment
  • U.S. Citizenship is required.
  • Incumbent will be subject to random drug testing.
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance.

Qualifications
Applicants must meet all the required qualification requirements described below by the closing date of this announcement. If you are qualifying based on education OR if there are mandatory education requirements listed below, you MUST submit a copy of your college transcript with your application.
NOTE: Applicants must meet time-in-grade and time after competitive appointment requirements, by the closing date of this announcement.
Time-In-Grade Requirements: Federal applicants must have served 52 weeks at the next lower grade to satisfy time-in-grade restrictions, per 5CFR 300, Subpart F.
Applicants must have the required experience or education as described below and meet any selective factors, when specified.
BASIC REQUIREMENTS: Have a bachelor's or graduate degree from an accredited college or university in international law, international relations, political science, economics, history, sociology, geography, social or cultural anthropology, law, statistics, or in the humanities;
OR Have a bachelor's or graduate degree from an accredited college or university that included a combination of courses, with at least 24 semester hours in international law and international relations, political science, economics, history, sociology, geography, social or cultural anthropology, law, statistics, or in the humanities;
OR Have 12 semester hours in one of the above disciplines and 12 semester hours in statistics / quantitative methods.
OR Have a combination of education and experience where your coursework was equivalent to a major, or a combination of related courses totaling at least 24 semester hours, (as shown above), PLUS appropriate relevant experience OR additional education.
OR Have completed at least 4 years of appropriate experience in one OR more of the fields listed above in work associated with international organizations, problems, or other aspects of foreign affairs. (NOTE: qualifying work experience may have been gained through residence, study, teaching, business or commercial activities, military service, newspaper work, military or civil government activities, missionary or international relief work, or other experience in foreign countries.)
Note: If you are qualifying based on education, you MUST submit transcripts as verification of educational requirement by the closing date of this announcement. If you fail to provide requested information, or the information you submit is insufficient to verify your eligibility, you WILL lose consideration for this position.
IN ADDITION to the basic requirements, this position requires one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-14 level in the Federal service which provided the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills and abilities to perform the duties of the position.
Qualifying specialized experience must demonstrate the following:
  • Experience formulating, interpreting and implementing environmental policies, programs and procedures.
  • Experience analyzing and advising senior official on policy issues related to environmental issues through multilateral organizations.
  • Experience coordinating and overseeing the implementation of work plans for environmental cooperation mechanisms with Free Trade Agreement (FTA) partners.

Note: If you are qualifying based on education, you MUST submit transcripts as verification of educational requirement by the closing date of this announcement. If you fail to provide requested information, or the information you submit is insufficient to verify your eligibility, you WILL lose consideration for this position.
In addition, applicant's experience must also demonstrate that the candidate possesses the following qualities:
  • Ability to assign, review, and supervise the work of others;
  • Objectivity and fairness in judging people on their ability, and situations on the facts and circumstances;
  • Ability to adjust to change, work pressures, or difficult situations without undue stress;
  • Willingness to consider new ideas or divergent points of view; and
  • Capacity to "see the job through."

Education
See the qualifications section of this vacancy announcement for education requirements.
Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the education requirements if you can show that the foreign education is comparable to that received in an accredited educational institution in the United States. It is your responsibility to provide such evidence when applying. For a list of accredited organizations recognized as specializing in interpretation of foreign education credentials, visit: www.naces.org/members.php.
Additional information
  • To request a reasonable accommodation for additional time on the timed sections of the assessment, please submit your request using the "Request a Reasonable Accommodation" button within the Assessment Application.
    For all other reasonable accommodations at the U.S. Department of State, please contact the Office of Accessibility and Accommodations (OAA) at OAA@state.gov.
    OAA is responsible for reviewing and adjudicating reasonable accommodation (RA) requests for the Assessment Battery being used for this announcement. The following applies to all RA requests:
    • RA requests cover additional time on timed sections only.

    • Applicants submitting a RA request MUST attach supporting medical documentation signed by a licensed, treating medical provider. The documentation should describe the nature, severity, and expected duration of the condition, identify the relevant medical condition or diagnosis, and explain the basis for the requested extension. RA requests that do not contain supporting medical documentation attachments at the time of initial request may be subject to further review.

    • Note: the following documents do not, on their own, qualify for automatic approval of the RA request: Schedule A letters, VA benefits letters, or SSA letters.

    • Applicants MUST submit their application before the vacancy closes, even if pending an accommodation decision.

    • Applicants are encouraged to carefully follow instructions related to medical documentation provided in the vacancy announcement prior to beginning the RA process.

    • Applicants will have 48 hours after their RA request is adjudicated to complete the assessment battery. Scores generated after the allotted timeframe will not be admissible and the applicant will not be considered further for the vacancy.

    • If a different type of RA is needed, please contact OAA directly at OAA@state.gov.
  • If eligible, situational telework agreements may be permitted with supervisory approval.
  • Multiple positions may be filled from this announcement. If eligible, applicants to this announcement may be referred to other similar positions in this Bureau for up to 240 days and may require a higher or lower security clearance. Telework eligibility and security clearance requirements may vary for such similar positions.
  • Agency & Interagency Career Transition Assistance Program (CTAP & ICTAP): View OPM's CTAP & ICTAP eligibility website for more information. You must be rated in the Well-Qualified category and submit supporting documents under the required documents section of this announcement to receive selection priority consideration. To be considered Well-Qualified applicants must: score an 85 or above, meet Minimum Qualifications, and demonstrate proficiency in some, but not all major aspects of the position.

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Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
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A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
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Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.

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