Best Schools for Political Scientists in 2024

Essential Education to Become a Political Scientist

Becoming a political scientist is a path filled with intrigue, analysis, and the study of political systems, behaviors, and ideas. If you're drawn to understanding the complexities of governance, policy-making, and international relations, gearing up with the right education is your first step. Here’s what you need to know about the essential education required to enter the field of political science.

Undergraduate Degree

• Bachelor’s in Political Science: Your journey starts with a bachelor’s degree in political science. This foundational course introduces you to the basics of political theories, government operations, public policies, and various political systems around the world.
• Coursework: Expect to dive into subjects such as comparative politics, international relations, political theory, and public administration. These courses are designed to build a solid foundation in understanding how political systems work.
• Skills Development: Beyond theoretical knowledge, you'll also develop critical thinking, analytical, and writing skills. These are crucial for any aspiring political scientist as they form the backbone of research and analysis in the field.

Master’s Degree

• Advanced Studies: While a bachelor's degree provides a good starting point, a master’s degree in political science or related fields is often necessary for more advanced positions in research or academia.
• Specialization: This stage allows you to specialize in areas like American politics, comparative politics, international relations, or political theory. Choosing a specialization aligns your academic path with your career interests.
• Research and Analysis: Master’s programs place a strong emphasis on research methodologies and advanced analytical techniques. You'll likely complete a thesis or capstone project that requires extensive research and demonstrates your expertise in your chosen area of study.

Doctoral Degree

• Ph.D. in Political Science: For those aiming for the highest echelons of academia or research-intensive roles, a Ph.D. in political science is essential. This degree signifies your authority in the field and opens doors to careers in university teaching, high-level research positions, and policy analysis.
• Dissertation: A significant portion of your time will be dedicated to conducting original research and writing a dissertation. This work contributes new knowledge to the field of political science and showcases your ability to conduct independent, comprehensive research.

Additional Skills and Training

• Statistical Analysis Software: Proficiency in statistical software like SPSS or Stata is invaluable for conducting research and analyzing data.
• Internships: Gaining practical experience through internships with government agencies, think tanks, or non-profit organizations can be incredibly beneficial. It provides real-world insights into the workings of political systems and policy-making processes.

Areas of Study or Concentration

Specializing in one or more areas can significantly enhance your career prospects as a political scientist. Here are some common concentrations:

• International Relations: Focuses on foreign policy, global politics, and the dynamics between countries.
• Comparative Politics: Involves comparing political systems and practices across different countries to understand their principles and operations.
• Political Theory: Deals with the study of ideas, values, and ethics in political thought throughout history.
• Public Policy and Administration: Concentrates on the development, implementation, and analysis of public policies.

By carefully navigating through these educational requirements and specializing in areas that align with your career goals, you’ll be well-prepared for a successful career as a political scientist. Remember, continuous learning and staying updated on global political developments are part of this dynamic field's nature.

Political Scientist Education Resources

As you explore the path to becoming a political scientist, it's essential to have access to the right resources. From professional associations to industry publications, these tools can help you stay informed, network with professionals, and find opportunities in your field. Here's a curated list of resources tailored for you:

Professional Associations

Joining a professional association is a great way to connect with others in your field and stay on top of the latest research and trends.

• American Political Science Association (APSA)
  • APSA is one of the leading organizations for those studying and working within political science. They offer conferences, publications, and a variety of resources for members.
• International Political Science Association (IPSA)
  • IPSA promotes the advancement of political science across the globe. They provide networking opportunities, publications, and access to international research.
• European Consortium for Political Research (ECPR)
  • ECPR is a key resource for political scientists in Europe, offering conferences, workshops, and training sessions.

Industry Publications

Staying up-to-date with the latest research and discussions in political science is crucial. Here are some top publications in the field:

• The American Political Science Review
  • As the flagship journal of APSA, this publication covers all areas of political science including theory, government policies, and empirical research.
• Journal of Politics
  • This journal offers a wide range of political science articles, including studies on comparative politics, international relations, and political theory.
• World Politics
  • Focusing on international relations and comparative politics, World Politics publishes articles that contribute to general theories of world politics.

Educational Resources

Beyond associations and publications, there are several educational resources to help deepen your understanding of political science:

• Coursera
  • Offers online courses from universities around the world on various political science topics.
• edX
  • Provides access to free online courses from leading institutions in subjects like global politics, government, and policy analysis.

Career.Guide

For personalized advice and more detailed exploration of the political scientist career path:

• Career.Guide
  • Your go-to source for career advice, including steps to become a political scientist, tips for career advancement, and strategies for education planning.

Utilizing these resources will help you stay informed about the latest in political science research, network with professionals in the field, and navigate your educational journey more effectively. Remember to actively engage with these tools; subscribe to publications, join discussions in associations, and take online courses to broaden your knowledge and skills.

Political Scientist Education FAQs

What degrees do I need to become a Political Scientist?

To embark on a career as a political scientist, your educational path will typically include the following steps:

• Bachelor's Degree: Your journey starts with a bachelor's degree in political science, public administration, international relations, or a related field. This foundational step provides you with an essential understanding of political theories, systems, and research methodologies.

• Master's Degree: A master's degree is often considered the minimum requirement for most entry-level positions in political science. Programs focus on more specialized knowledge and research skills. Students can choose to concentrate on areas such as American politics, comparative politics, international relations, or political theory.

• Ph.D.: For those aspiring to high-level research, academic positions, or expert consultancy roles, a Ph.D. in Political Science is usually necessary. This advanced degree involves extensive research and the completion of a dissertation that contributes new knowledge to the field.

What subjects should I focus on in high school?

While in high school, aim to build a strong foundation with the following subjects:

• Social Studies: Courses in history, government, and economics will provide valuable context and understanding of political systems and economic policies.

• English and Writing: Excellent writing skills are crucial for political scientists. Engaging with English and literature classes can enhance your ability to articulate complex ideas effectively.

• Foreign Languages: Proficiency in one or more foreign languages can be beneficial, especially for those interested in international relations.

• Mathematics: Classes in statistics and calculus will prepare you for the quantitative research methods used in political science.

Are there any specific skills I should develop?

Yes, successful political scientists often possess a combination of the following skills:

• Analytical Skills: The ability to analyze data, texts, and other information is fundamental. Developing these skills will help you interpret policies and predict political trends.

• Research Skills: Strong research capabilities are essential for gathering information, conducting surveys, and evaluating sources.

• Communication Skills: You'll need to be able to clearly express your findings both in writing and verbally. Public speaking and debate classes can be particularly beneficial.

• Critical Thinking: The ability to think critically about policies, theories, and practices allows for deeper understanding and innovation within the field.

What certifications or licenses do I need?

Generally, political scientists do not require specific certifications or licenses to practice. However, certain professional certifications can enhance your qualifications:

• Certified Political Scientist (CPS): Offered by some professional associations, this certification can demonstrate your expertise and commitment to the field.

• Specialized Certifications: Depending on your area of interest within political science (e.g., public policy analysis, international relations), there may be certifications that highlight your specialized knowledge or skills.

What kind of continuing education is available or required?

Continuing education is vital for staying up-to-date with the latest research, theories, and methodologies in political science. Options include:

• Conferences and Workshops: Attending these events allows you to network with other professionals and learn about cutting-edge research.

• Online Courses and Webinars: Many universities and professional organizations offer courses that cover new developments in the field.

• Professional Journals: Subscribing to and reading professional journals keeps you informed about recent studies and debates.

While not always formally required, engaging in continuing education ensures that your knowledge remains relevant and can enhance your career progression opportunities.