Political Science Teachers, Postsecondary
Political science teachers at colleges and universities instruct students in courses covering political systems, international affairs, and international relations. They work in higher education settings, typically spending time on course preparation, lectures, grading, and office hours. Many also conduct research alongside their teaching responsibilities.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against political science teachers, postsecondary and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves preparing and teaching multiple course sections, ranging from introductory surveys to specialized seminars. Instructors grade papers and exams, hold office hours to advise students, and attend department meetings. Those balancing research spend time reviewing scholarly publications, analyzing political data, conducting interviews, or writing for academic journals alongside these teaching duties.
Who this work suits
Holland code SIA. Social work is helping, teaching and working closely with people. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You likely excel in this role if you enjoy exploring complex social systems and investigating how political institutions work—and if you're drawn to explaining these topics clearly to others. Success requires strong research skills, intellectual curiosity about global affairs, and the ability to engage students through substantive discussion and rigorous analysis.
What it takes
Preparation: Extensive preparation (graduate degree and/or many years of experience). Most people in this occupation hold doct.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | $99,500 | $128,150 | $164,850 | 920 |
| California | $100,380 | $124,890 | $165,810 | 1,060 |
| New Hampshire | $85,060 | $124,110 | $165,930 | 90 |
| Montana | $83,240 | $109,050 | $157,450 | — |
| Vermont | $88,310 | $107,490 | $130,650 | 80 |
| Michigan | $82,580 | $107,060 | $137,430 | 380 |
| Maryland | $81,170 | $105,630 | $166,160 | 370 |
| New York | $77,670 | $104,050 | $139,500 | 1,460 |
| District of Columbia | $80,290 | $102,310 | $127,550 | 1,120 |
| Virginia | $76,320 | $101,430 | $135,130 | 830 |
| Rhode Island | $80,620 | $101,320 | $130,870 | 170 |
| Washington | $77,810 | $101,140 | $107,170 | 450 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- LIUNA Instructor Certification — LIUNA Training & Education
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against political science teachers, postsecondary and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 25-1065.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.