How much does a Politologist make

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  2. Politologist
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Politologist

46 000 kr

Archaeologists and specialists in humanities etc.

41 100 - 52 100 kr / month

Women earn 97% of what men do.

Administration, ekonomi

What will be the salary after tax?

Salary progression Politologist

Average salary 46 000 kr
Males 46 600 kr
Females 45 300 kr
1 Likes 0 Comments 6 Vacant jobs ->

What does a political scientist do? – Tasks and work environment

A political scientist analyzes and studies political systems, power relations, and social issues focusing on how various actors influence society. Tasks often include research, investigations, report writing, and advising government agencies, organizations, or companies. Political scientists typically work in office environments and collaborate with other experts in humanities and social sciences. The work can be both independent and project-based with diverse contact points.

Salary development over time

The salary of a political scientist has increased gradually over the past three years with a clear positive trend. In 2022, the average salary was 43,000 SEK per month, rising to 43 300 SEK in 2023, which corresponds to an increase of about 0.7%. In 2024, the average salary reached 46 000 SEK, representing a significant increase of nearly 6.2% compared to the previous year. This salary increase can be explained by increased demand for specialists in social sciences and political analysis, as well as general salary adjustments within the public sector and academic professions. The high level of education and specialized knowledge that political scientists possess also contribute to this positive development.

Political scientists often work in interdisciplinary teams, and their analyses can influence important decisions at national and international levels, making the profession both challenging and socially relevant.

– statsskuld.se

Political scientist salary – complete overview

  • Average salary: 46 000 SEK/month
  • Lowest salary: 41,100 SEK (men), 42,000 SEK (women)
  • Highest salary: 52,100 SEK (men), 50,700 SEK (women)
  • Hourly wage: 277 SEK (based on 166 working hours/month)
  • Gender differences: Women earn on average 97 % of men's salaries

Education and qualifications

To become a political scientist, a university degree in political science or similar social sciences is usually required. A relevant higher education provides fundamental knowledge of political theories, methods, and analytical tools. Practical experience through internships or project work is often advantageous.

  • Formal degree: Bachelor's or master's degree in political science or related fields (3–5 years)
  • Specialized courses: Methodology, international relations, public administration
  • Internship/trainee: Commonly undertaken at government agencies and think tanks
  • Prerequisites: High school diploma with good grades in social studies subjects
  • Tips for choosing: Opt for programs with strong links to research and practical experience within politics and society

Common benefits and compensations

Political scientists are often offered benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, and flexible working hours. In the public sector, collective agreements are common, ensuring benefits like vacation, sick pay, and opportunities for further training. Some employers also provide support for conferences and networking.

Competition and challenges

The profession as a political scientist is competitive, with several recent graduates each year. Challenges include keeping up to date with the rapidly changing political landscape and being able to communicate complex analyses to different audiences. Many political scientists also need to adapt to project-based employment and varied tasks.

Tips for aspiring political scientists

To succeed as a political scientist, it is good to be analytical and curious, which facilitates examining complex social issues. It is also important to have strong communication skills to present analyses clearly. A structured working methodology helps manage large amounts of information efficiently. Furthermore, being adaptable and able to collaborate in interdisciplinary teams is beneficial. Gaining practical experience early through internships or projects can provide valuable contacts and insights into the profession.

Key facts about political scientists

  • Education level: University degree in political science (3–5 years)
  • Salary range: 41,100–52,100 SEK/month
  • Work environment: Office-based, often project and research-oriented
  • Gender distribution: Low salary gap, women earn 97 % of men's salaries
  • Demand: Approximately 758 job openings within the profession

Career paths and future prospects

After a few years of experience, political scientists can advance to roles such as senior analyst, project manager, or advisor within public administration, organizations, or companies. There are also opportunities to work as researchers or university teachers. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, demand remains stable with good chances of employment in the public sector and consulting. Digitalization and globalization contribute to new specializations and areas of work within the profession.

Frequently asked questions about political scientists

  • What does a political scientist earn at the beginning of their career?
    - Starting salaries are often around 41,000–42,000 SEK per month depending on the employer and experience.
  • Is a master's degree required to become a political scientist?
    - A bachelor's degree is the minimum, but a master's degree increases opportunities for advanced roles.
  • Are there significant salary differences between men and women?
    - Women earn on average 97 % of men's salaries, indicating relatively small differences.
  • Which workplaces hire political scientists?
    - Common workplaces include government agencies, research institutes, consulting firms, and non-profit organizations.
  • What is the work environment like for political scientists?
    - The work is often office-based with opportunities for flexible hours and varied projects.
  • How does the salary of political scientists develop over time?
    - Salaries have increased steadily over recent years with a clear positive trend.
  • What personal qualities are important in the profession?
    - Analytical ability, good communication, and adaptability are key qualities.

Richard Andersson

Richard Andersson - 2025-07-03 20:17:52

Occupation
Who has the highest salary?
The highest salary for a Politologist is 52100 kr. This salary belongs to a man working in the Public sector with a data missing. The highest salary for a woman in this profession is 50700 kr.
Who has the lowest salary?
The lowest salary for a Politologist is 41100 kr. This salary belongs to a man working in the Multiple sectors. The lowest salary for a woman in this profession is 42000 kr.
Salary distributed by age and sector
Age Women's salary as a percentage of men's Base salary Monthly salary
25-34 38500 kr 38600 kr
35-44 101% 45600 kr 45800 kr
45-54 101% 47200 kr 47300 kr
55-64 91% 47300 kr 47300 kr
Snitt 97% 45900 kr 46000 kr
* Empty columns indicate that the statistical data was insufficient to allow for a statistically significant conclusion.
Salary per sector
Salary based on education
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About the data

All information displayed on this page is based on data from the Swedish Central Bureau of Statistics (SCB), the Swedish Tax Agency and the Swedish employment agency. Learn more about our data and data sources here.

All figures are gross salaries, meaning salaries before tax. The average salary, or mean salary, is calculated by adding up the total salary for all individuals within the profession and dividing it by the number of individuals. For specific job categories, we have also considered various criteria such as experience and education.

Profession Politologist has the SSYK code 2623, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.

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Net salary
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