I play a pivotal nonpartisan role in supporting bipartisan members, focusing on research and best practices to enhance equity in New Mexico's education system. My work involves strategic planning around the state's alternating 30-day budget-focused sessions and 60-day policy sessions. I emphasize culturally sustainable teaching and demystify educational jargon for legislators, ensuring they understand the needs and funding requirements of educators.
CAREER
Political Scientists
Overview
Salary Median (2020)
$125,350
Projected Job Growth (2019-2029)
+6.1% (as fast as the average)
Most Common Level of Education
Master's degree
Career
Roadtrip Nation Leaders in This Career
What Political Scientists Do
Study the origin, development, and operation of political systems. May study topics, such as public opinion, political decisionmaking, and ideology. May analyze the structure and operation of governments, as well as various political entities. May conduct public opinion surveys, analyze election results, or analyze public documents.
How Leaders Describe a Typical Day at Work
Tasks & Responsibilities May Include
- Disseminate research results through academic publications, written reports, or public presentations.
- Teach political science.
- Develop and test theories, using information from interviews, newspapers, periodicals, case law, historical papers, polls, or statistical sources.
- Identify issues for research and analysis.
- Interpret and analyze policies, public issues, legislation, or the operations of governments, businesses, and organizations.
Education
Level of Education Attained by Political Scientists
Most common level of education among people in
this career: Master's degree (42%)
Bachelor's degree
Master's degree
Doctoral or professional degree
Other*
*All other responses combined for clarity.
Majors Related to Career
Educational Paths Suggested by Leaders
Suggested Path
Associates
Bachelor
Political Science and Government, General
Additional Skills & Experiences That Can Help You Excel
Be kind to others. Take nothing personally. Never let anybody treat you inconsitently with who you are.
Getting Started
Recommended First Step for:
College Students
I recommend starting with internship opportunities in public policy. Internships are a great way to get first-hand experience working in the field so that you can decide if it's right for you or not. I think it's better to gain some experience and figure out what path is the best fit before committing to something like law school.
Everyone
This page includes information from theO*NET 26.1 Databaseby the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under theCC BY 4.0license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.
