Political Scientists vs. Occupational Health and Safety Specialists: Who Earns More?
Political Scientists out-earn Occupational Health and Safety Specialists by $52K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Political Scientists land at $142,080 and Occupational Health and Safety Specialists at $90,150. The education gap is real: political scientist programs typically require bachelor's degree, while occupational health and safety specialist programs require bachelor's degree. Top-paying state for Political Scientists is Maryland ($153,380); for Occupational Health and Safety Specialists it's District of Columbia ($111,530).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Political Scientists median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Political Scientists or Occupational Health and Safety Specialists?
Political Scientists earn more nationally. The median is $142,080 for Political Scientists versus $90,150 for Occupational Health and Safety Specialists, a difference of $52K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Political Scientists or Occupational Health and Safety Specialists?
Occupational Health and Safety Specialists has the better 10-year outlook at 12.5% projected growth, compared to -3.1% for the other field. Both are from BLS Employment Projections.
Which requires more education, Political Scientists or Occupational Health and Safety Specialists?
Political Scientists typically requires bachelor's degree. Occupational Health and Safety Specialists requires bachelor's degree. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Political Scientists get paid the most?
Maryland is the top-paying state for Political Scientists at $153,380/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Political Scientists vs. Occupational Health and Safety Specialists pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In Maryland, Political Scientists earn $153,380 vs. $91,820 for Occupational Health and Safety Specialists. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.