Pursuing a Career in Political Science
Political Scientist:  Job Description as defined by I Seek Information

I.  Considerations
    A.  career aspiration, calling
       Grad school vs. law school?
       teaching, research, public administration, electoral office
       MA vs. PhD
    B.  family, timing, geographical concerns
    C.  finances
       teaching assistanceships (TAs)
       research assistanceships (RAs)
       loans
       working
      employer paid?

II.  Choosing a school
    A.  public vs. private school considerations
    B.  in-state, out-of-state considerations
    C.  rank considerations
    US News and World Report rankings
    D.  field of specialization considerations
    E.  mentoring, research support, rates of publishing with students
    F. quality of life concerns

III.  Structure of Political Science Programs
    A.  Fields:  American Politics, Comparative Politics, International Relations, Political Theory, Methods
    B.  Usually have to take courses in at least 3 fields plus a methods requirement
    C.  Take comprehensive exams in 2 or 3 fields
    written and oral comprehensive exams
    D.  MA thesis, doctoral dissertation 
    E.  Time frame:  1-2 years MA; 5-10 years MA and PhD.
    F.  Role of Advisor
 
IV. Dissertations
    Demonstrate an understanding of existing knowledge 
    Building upon it, making a contribution
    Writing it, working with advisor and committee
    Defending it orally

V. Finding a job in academics
    A. Tenure-track vs. adjunct factulty and terminal/contract positions ("one-years")
    B.  Research positions "post-docs"
    C. Getting a tenure track job
    national job searches, APSA convention, interview process
    D.  Changing jobs, institutions

VI.  Career
    A.  Assistant professor
    B.  Associate professor/tenure
    C.  Full professor