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Political Scientist

Political scientists research, study, write, analyse and report on a wide range of political and governmental subjects and areas.

 

Tasks & duties

Political scientists may do some or all of the following:

  • teach political science
  • act as a critic or commentator on politics and political events
  • research issues such as elections, laws, political groups and political behaviour
  • study domestic and international politics
  • examine how individuals and groups affect society through politics
  • write reports on research findings
  • write articles for the media
  • write policy papers for government departments, ministries or Cabinet
  • conduct public opinion surveys and interviews
  • advise community groups
  • advise governments, political groups, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), financial markets and the media on political issues
  • liaise with international government departments such as embassies or high commissions
  • act as an expert witness in court cases
  • analyse and comment on the behaviour of the media

 

Skills & knowledge

Political scientists need to have:

  • knowledge of political theories
  • knowledge of current local, national and world affairs
  • knowledge of human behaviour and thought
  • research skills, including the ability to analyse and interpret information
  • oral and written communication skills
  • people skills
  • planning and time management skills
  • basic statistical skills

 

Entry requirements

To become a political scientist a postgraduate qualification majoring in political science is required. However, a Bachelor of Arts is sufficient for some positions, and a doctorate is required to teach at a tertiary level. Qualifications in other social sciences can also be useful.

 

Secondary education

A tertiary entrance qualification is required to enter tertiary training. Useful subjects include English, history, geography, economics, and maths with statistics.

 

Training on the job

Skills are gained through working in a political environment.

 

Useful experience

Useful experience for political scientists includes:

  • research work
  • work for government departments, political parties, parliament, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) or local authorities
  • community work
  • writing or journalism experience
  • statistical work
  • work in public policy development
  • work in international relations

 

Related courses

Policy Studies
Political Science

 

For more information, please refer to Career Services.

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