Increase in job opportunities

Political science is a small occupation. Traditionally the main employers have been central government and universities. However, in the last 10 years more people have found work as political scientists in other areas such as in business, the media and non-governmental organisations (NGOs). These roles have mainly been in policy advice, planning and research.

In particular, employment opportunities providing research and policy advice for political parties and special interest groups have grown over the last few years. Government organisations have also increased their policy and research roles. And there has been a small rise in the number of political scientists employed at local government level.

International relations expertise increases

Opportunities for political scientists with international relations expertise has grown over the last 10 years. Areas of increased importance and employment opportunities include international agreements and affairs, conflict management and resolution, and globalisation. These positions are usually research or policy advice roles in government, NGOs, or large private sector companies.

Higher levels of education important

University training for political scientists has started to reflect the increasingly practical focus of many roles. Many political science courses include options such as policy, negotiation and mediation. With more employers looking for graduates with Doctorate and Masters qualifications, these higher levels of education have become more important for those wishing to work as political scientists.

Political science is a broad discipline that overlaps a number of occupations. Political scientists that have a complementary qualification, such as law, economics, accounting, languages, advertising and marketing are often more attractive to employers.

Turnover low

Turnover among political scientists is low. Most turnover occurs due to political scientists moving between organisations to pursue career opportunities.

(Written 10/05/2007)

Sources:

• Business and Economic Research Ltd. (BERL). 2006 Census Data Tool. May 2006.


• Statistics New Zealand. ‘Occupation for the employed census usually resident population count aged 15 years and over’. 2006. (www.stats.govt.nz).