How to Become A Political Analyst In South Africa

Political analysts (also known as political scientists) study how political systems originate, develop, and operate. They research and analyze governments, political ideas, policies, political trends, and foreign relations.

What is the example of political analyst?

Researching political subjects such as foreign relations and political ideologies. Collecting data from sources such as public opinion surveys and election results. Using statistical analysis to interpret research findings.

What are the skills of political analyst?

Political Analyst Requirements:

Experience using statistical analysis software and qualitative/quantitative research tools. Excellent analytical and critical thinking skills. Superlative written and verbal communication skills. Multi-tasking and time-management skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks.

What is the goal of political analyst?

Teach political science. Evaluate programs and policies, and make related recommendations to institutions and organizations. Provide media commentary or criticism related to public policy and political issues and events. Forecast political, economic, and social trends.

What does a political strategist do?

Political consultants sometimes act as political strategists, a senior political consultant who promote the election of certain candidates or the interests of certain groups. This is achieved by planning campaign strategies, coordinating campaign staffers, and arranging events to publicize candidates or causes.

Career Information for Political Analysts

So you want to be a political scientist. Becoming a political scientist requires a combination of education and experience. An aspiring political analyst needs a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in political science, foreign affairs, history, international relations, or other related major to obtain a job in the field.

Degree LevelBachelor’s degree; graduate degree may be required
Degree FieldPolitical science, foreign affairs, anthropology, history, international relations, or public administration
Experience2-8 years of experience may be required
Key SkillsVerbal and written communication, research, analytical, critical thinking, presentation, and monitoring skills; knowledge of law and government
Median Annual Salary (May 2019)*R 1782850.03 (for Political Scientist)

Below are steps to Become A Political Analyst In South Africa

Step 1: Earn a Bachelor’s Degree in a Relevant Field

As we said earlier, political analysts need a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in a relevant major. Undergraduate degree programs in political science may cover topics in data analysis and statistics, media and politics, modern political theory, and policy processes. Students may also study the American presidency, environmental policy, the judicial process,.

Some schools offer dual bachelor’s and master’s degree programs in political science. These programs allow students to earn their undergraduate and graduate degrees in a shorter amount of time than if they pursued both degrees separately.

Success Tips:

Complete an internship. Many schools offer undergraduate students the chance to complete internships with government agencies or non-profit organizations that interact with federal or state governments. Internships introduce students to the ways in which politics affect different industry sectors and the political process.

Hone investigation and analysis skills. Much of a political analysts’ job includes researching and analyzing data. Because of this, developing data interpretation and investigative skills can be beneficial to working in the field.

Step 2: Find a Job as a Political Analyst

Many employers of political analysts prefer candidates with several years of work experience. Government agencies hire analysts to investigate foreign or domestic political issues. Private industries might hire analysts to work in their political relations departments and manage their relationships with the government.

Step 3: Earn an MS in Political Science

According to the BLS, many political scientists have graduate degrees in political science, public administration or a related field.

Master’s degree programs in political science require at least 30 credit hours of study, which may include courses in political data analysis, political research and methodology, and the current issues in American politics. Additional requirements may include a thesis or participation in an internship. 

Political Science Analyst Job Duties

There are many things you may be responsible for as a political analyst, meaning that you will probably keep learning new skills throughout your career. Here are some of the most important things you can learn as you explore how to become a political commentator:

Interpersonal skills

Analytical reasoning

Communication skills

Attention to detail

Prediction of trends

Excellent knowledge of political campaigns

Ability to weigh politicians’ goals against people’s needs

What subjects are needed to become a political analyst in South Africa?

Pursue a relevant educational program

The educational path to becoming a political analyst requires at least a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in history, foreign affairs, political science, international relations or any other major related to this field.

What education does a political analyst need In South Africa?

Political analysts require advanced academic writing and research skills. A bachelor’s degree is the minimum education requirement. Preferred degree fields include political science, international relations, and economics. Positions may require a high-grade point average.

What can you do with a politics degree in South Africa?

Political Science major graduates can find jobs such as: political analyst, public relations specialist, media manager, political consultant, political campaign staff, political writer, paralegal, and more.

How much do political analysts earn in South Africa?

R610,876 (ZAR)/yr.

Is it hard to become a political analyst In South Africa?

In terms of higher education levels, we found that 26.4% of political analysts have master’s degrees. Even though most political analysts have a college degree, it’s impossible to become one with only a high school degree or GED.

What skills are required for a political analyst?

A political analyst should have good analytical, critical thinking, and research skills and be able to present well both orally and in writing. He or she should also be knowledgeable about government and law.

Where can I study political law in South Africa?

The largest cities offering Bachelor programs in Political Science in South Africa

CityUniversitiesAction
Hatfield1Show universities
Krugersdorp1Show universities
Polokwane1Show universities
Potchefstroom1Show universities

How much do junior data analysts earn in South Africa?

What is the salary trajectory of a Junior Data Analyst? The salary trajectory of a Junior Data Analyst ranges between locations and employers. The salary starts at ZAR 53,417 per year and goes up to ZAR 81,415 per year for the highest level of seniority.

How much do junior analysts make in South Africa?

Junior Business Analyst Salaries

Job TitleSalary
African Bank Junior Business Analyst salaries – 2 salaries reportedZAR 14,491/mo
Signature Business Solutions (South Africa) Junior Business Analyst salaries – 2 salaries reportedZAR 18,162/mo

How much is a data analyst paid in South Africa?

The average salary for a Data Analyst in SA is R 30 600 gross per month (R 367 200 gross per year), which is 30% higher than the South Africa’s national average salary. Salary Range: a Data Analyst can expect an average starting salary of R 15 230. The highest salaries can exceed R 64 040.