Careers · Political Scientists · Illinois
Political Scientists in Illinois
Political scientists study how political systems originate, develop, and operate. They analyze government structures, public opinion, political decision-making, and ideology In Illinois the median pay is $103,780 a year, 27% below the national median of $142,080.
$103,780median pay in Illinois, per year
$85,570–$117,590middle half earn
110employed in Illinois
$142,080U.S. median, for comparison
Are you suited for this?
Four short assessments and your background, scored against political scientists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against political scientists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
What it takes
Preparation: Extensive preparation (graduate degree and/or many years of experience). Most hold doct.
Skills that matter most
Reading ComprehensionActive ListeningSpeakingActive LearningWritingCritical ThinkingSocial PerceptivenessComplex Problem Solving
Knowledge areas
Law and GovernmentEnglish LanguageEducation and TrainingHistory and ArcheologyMathematics (knowledge)Communications and Media
Full profile, interests that fit, certifications and training: Political Scientists.
Licenses and training in Illinois
Political Scientists pay in other states
Maryland · $153,380District of Columbia · $152,530Washington · $147,060Pennsylvania · $140,020Massachusetts · $133,930Colorado · $127,260Oregon · $119,460Ohio · $119,370Texas · $114,050Arizona · $108,770
Related occupations
Anthropologists and ArcheologistsGeographersHistoriansSocial Scientists and Related Workers, All OtherTransportation PlannersEconomistsEnvironmental EconomistsSurvey Researchers
Are you suited for this?
Four short assessments and your background, scored against political scientists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against political scientists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 19-3094.00. Pay: BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025, Illinois, annual.