Teach courses in political science, international affairs, and international relations. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
SOC: 25-1065.00
Common Job Titles
Associate Professor
Political Science Instructor
Political Science Professor
Professor
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
KnowledgeAnalyze political systems, governance structures, and international relations using multiple theoretical frameworks and primary sources in postsecondary academic settings.
Advanced
KnowledgeDesign course curricula, syllabi, and learning assessments for undergraduate and graduate political science programs aligned with program learning outcomes.
Advanced
KnowledgeSynthesize interdisciplinary research findings from law, history, sociology, and international affairs to advance theoretical contributions and publish in peer-reviewed academic journals.
Advanced
MindsetModel scholarly discourse, critical inquiry, and intellectual integrity in classroom discussions and mentorship of undergraduate and graduate students.
Advanced
KnowledgeFormulate original research questions and methodological approaches for empirical and theoretical investigations in political science, securing grant funding when appropriate.
Advanced
KnowledgeEvaluate student research papers, examinations, and oral presentations applying discipline-specific criteria and academic standards independently.
Proficient
MindsetEngage diverse student perspectives on controversial political and policy issues facilitating respectful dialogue while maintaining academic rigor.
Proficient
KnowledgeInterpret complex political phenomena, legislation, and international treaties for diverse academic audiences through lectures, seminars, and public presentations.
Proficient
MindsetAdvocate evidence-based inquiry and ethical research practices when mentoring student researchers and serving on departmental committees.
Proficient
KnowledgeApply learning management systems, presentation software, and collaborative digital tools to deliver multimodal instruction and facilitate asynchronous student engagement.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Political Science Teachers, Postsecondary (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
17,170
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $50,490. 25th percentile: U.S. $65,330. 50th percentile: U.S. $94,680. 75th percentile: U.S. $127,480. 90th percentile: U.S. $173,380. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$50,490
10% of workers earn the following or more
$173,380
Workers on average earn
$105,160
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
English Language4.6/5
Law and Government4.5/5
Education and Training4.3/5
History and Archeology3.6/5
Sociology and Anthropology3.3/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
