Day in the life
A Day in the Life of a Political Science Professor
What political science professors actually do from the start of a shift to the end: the tasks, tools, schedule and realities of the job.
What is a typical day like for a political science professor?
Teach American government. From there, the day usually includes teach government and politics courses, conduct research, and analyze data on elections and policy. Teaching, research and service; election seasons can be busy.
Hour by hour: a typical shift
No two days are identical, but this timeline reflects a realistic day for a political science professor working full time.
- Teach American government.
- Hold office hours.
- Analyze survey data.
- Teach international relations.
- Advise a pre-law student.
- Give a media interview.
- Write a paper.
Where political science professors work
Faculty work in classrooms and offices at colleges and universities.
Hours and schedule
Teaching, research and service; election seasons can be busy.
Tasks you’ll do most often
- Teach government and politics courses
- Conduct research
- Analyze data on elections and policy
- Publish research
- Mentor students
- Advise pre-law students
- Engage with media and public
Tools you’ll use every day
- Statistical software
- Survey data
- Learning management systems
- Research databases
- Presentation tools
- Simulation games
The best and hardest parts of the job
What people like
- Timely, engaging subjects
- Media and policy influence
- Research freedom
- Flexible schedule
What’s hard
- Competitive job market
- Polarized classroom debates
- Publication pressure
- Long training
You’ll likely thrive if…
- I love politics and policy
- I can stay neutral in class
- I enjoy teaching
- I like research
- I want public impact
- I’m willing to earn a doctorate
Not sure? Take the free Political Science Professor fit quiz or the Career Match Quiz.
Staying safe on the job
- Maintain respectful classrooms
- Protect student privacy
- Follow research ethics
- Follow campus safety