Political Scientists
No job titles available.
What is a Political Scientist?
Political scientists are social scientists who study the theory and practice of politics, government systems, and political behavior. They analyze political ideas, institutions, processes, and public policies both in domestic contexts and on a global scale. Through a combination of qualitative and quantitative methodologies, they seek to understand the dynamics of power, authority, and governance, as well as the influence of political institutions on society. Their focus may include areas like comparative politics, international relations, political theory, public administration, and public policy. Political scientists often conduct research, publish findings, and provide insights that can inform political decision-making, advocacy, and civic engagement. They may work in a variety of settings, including academic institutions, government agencies, think tanks, non-profit organizations, and private sector firms, contributing to the ongoing discourse on political issues and the development of strategic solutions.
Tasks
- Teach political science.
- Maintain current knowledge of government policy decisions.
- Develop and test theories, using information from interviews, newspapers, periodicals, case law, historical papers, polls, or statistical sources.
- Disseminate research results through academic publications, written reports, or public presentations.
- Advise political science students.
Technology Skills
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Analytical or scientific software
- IBM SPSS Statistics
- JudgeIt II
- SAS
- StataCorp Stata
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Presentation software
- Microsoft PowerPoint
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Information retrieval or search software
- EBSCO Publishing Political Science Complete
- JSTOR database
- ProQuest Worldwide Political Science Abstracts
- Sage Reference Online
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Data base user interface and query software
- CQ Press Political Reference Suite
- Library of Congress E-resources Online Catalog
- Microsoft Access
- Structure query language SQL
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Electronic mail software
- Email software
- Microsoft Outlook
Tools Used
- Audioconferencing systems
- Notebook computers
- Digital voice recorders
- Digital video disk players or recorders
- Overhead projectors
Knowledge
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Law and Government
Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulations, executive orders, agency rules, and the democratic political process.
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English Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
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Education and Training
Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
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History and Archeology
Knowledge of historical events and their causes, indicators, and effects on civilizations and cultures.
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Mathematics
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
Skills
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Reading Comprehension
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
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Active Learning
Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
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Active Listening
Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
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Speaking
Talking to others to convey information effectively.
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Critical Thinking
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
Abilities
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Written Comprehension
The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
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Oral Comprehension
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
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Oral Expression
The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
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Inductive Reasoning
The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).
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Speech Clarity
The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.
Education
How much education does a new hire need to perform a job in this occupation?
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Doctoral degree
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Master's degree
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Post-doctoral training
Work Activities
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Analyzing Data or Information
Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
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Getting Information
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
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Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge
Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
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Processing Information
Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
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Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others
Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
Detailed Work Activities
- Instruct college students in social sciences or humanities disciplines.
- Develop theories or models of physical phenomena.
- Review professional literature to maintain professional knowledge.
- Prepare scientific or technical reports or presentations.
- Advise others on educational matters.
Work Interests
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Investigative
Work involves studying and researching non-living objects, living organisms, disease or other forms of impairment, or human behavior. Investigative occupations are often associated with physical, life, medical, or social sciences, and can be found in the fields of humanities, mathematics/statistics, information technology, or health care service.
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Artistic
Work involves creating original visual artwork, performances, written works, food, or music for a variety of media, or applying artistic principles to the design of various objects and materials. Artistic occupations are often associated with visual arts, applied arts and design, performing arts, music, creative writing, media, or culinary art.
Job Outlook
Projected salary and job growth
$72470.0 - $183500.0
New job opportunities are likely in the future. : Average
Assessment
Related assessments and tests
No assessment available.