Political Science Teachers, Postsecondary
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.
Common Job Titles
- Associate Professor
- Political Science Instructor
- Political Science Professor
- Professor
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey 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
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
- C
- Google Docs
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft Word
- R
Technology Skills
- Blackboard Learn
- Calendar and scheduling software
- Collaborative editing software
- ContextMiner
- Course management system software
- DOC Cop
- Desire2Learn LMS software
- Email software
Tools & Equipment
- Carousel slide projectors
- Compact digital cameras
- Compact disk CD players
- Computer data input scanners
- Computer laser printers
- Computer projectors
- Conference telephones
- Desktop computers