Online bachelor’s degree programs in political science are fairly common and some of the best programs are available from schools in states like Oregon, Louisiana, and Kansas. These top schools may be considered some of the best for flexible start times, available concentrations, student resources, and/or unique learning opportunities they offer. Explore some of the unique features of some of the top online bachelor’s degree programs in political science here.
Learn.org has examined and analyzed hundred of schools and universities across the country to determine the best online bachelor’s degree programs in political science. We combined information from the U.S Department of Education, such as graduation rates and average salary of graduates, with close examinations of each school’s individual program to best determine the top programs around the United States. We also looked at factors such as extracurricular opportunities, internship possibilities and more to best determine the best options for those planning on pursuing a degree in political science.
1. Oregon State University
| Location | Tuition & Fees (in-state) | % Receiving Financial Aid |
|---|---|---|
| Corvallis, OR | $11,166 | 86% |
Oregon State University offers an online Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BS) in Political Science that totals 180 credits. The program offers 4 different start terms throughout the year for flexibility and is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. Students can pursue a general political science major or specialize in law and politics, environmental and energy politics, or international affairs and are encouraged to participate in experiential learning experiences, such as research or an internship. Online students are still provided with school resources like online tutoring and library services.
2. Nicholls State University
| Location | Tuition & Fees (in-state) | % Receiving Financial Aid |
|---|---|---|
| Thibodaux, LA | $7,952 | 95% |
Nicholls State University has an online BA in Political Science that provides coursework in various subfields of political science, including political theory, international relations, and American government. The political science degree is recommended by the College of Liberal Arts for those interested in taking pre-law courses. Students in the program may also choose to compete for internship opportunities, such as a pre-law internship or women and government internship. According to the school’s website, the online BA in Political Science was ranked one of the best online bachelor’s programs in the field of history from Best Value Schools.
3. Fort Hays State University
| Location | Tuition & Fees (in-state) | % Receiving Financial Aid |
|---|---|---|
| Hays, KS | $5,130 | 98% |
Fort Hays State University offers an online BA in Political Science with an available concentration in public administration or pre-law. The program requires a total of 120 credits and students in the program must take 10 hours of modern language. The program also concludes with a senior capstone course and a political science internship experience. The online BA program has also been ranked nationally by Social Science Careers, according to the school’s website.
4. Eastern Kentucky University
| Location | Tuition & Fees (in-state) | % Receiving Financial Aid |
|---|---|---|
| Richmond, KY | $9,666 | 99% |
Eastern Kentucky University provides an online bachelor’s degree program in political science that totals 120 credits. Courses are offered in accelerated 8-week formats, and the program offers 6 different start dates throughout the year. Students can focus their studies in emphasis areas of public administration/public policy, American institutions/law, or international relations and comparative politics and/or can choose to pursue various minors or undergraduate certificates. The program also accepts up to 90 credits of transfer credit and online students can take advantage of free, online tutoring and career services.
5. Sam Houston State University
| Location | Tuition & Fees (in-state) | % Receiving Financial Aid |
|---|---|---|
| Huntsville, TX | $8,296 | 89% |
Sam Houston State University has an online BA or BS in Political Science available, both of which require 120 credits. Students in the program can choose to add a legal studies minor and/or participate in a range of internship opportunities for hands-on learning. The program offers 3 different start dates and small class sizes. Courses for the program are offered in 5 different areas, including international relations and foreign policy, American government and politics, and political theory and methodology.
6. University of Nebraska – Omaha
Through their Division of Continuing Studies system, the University of Nebraska – Omaha offers a supremely flexible and highly affordable Bachelor of Multidisciplinary Studies with a Political Science concentration. This university is also partnered with over 500 community organizations, assuring that online students will be able to find a way to engage with their degree and develop partnerships with useful government agencies and nonprofit organizations. By combining a unique block curriculum system with an extremely adaptable schedule and a variety of classes, this school makes sure that students will be able to complete the degree they want.
7. Troy University
Troy University in Alabama conveniently offers an online bachelor’s program in political science with two concentration options – one focused on international politics and one focused on American politics and public administration. Students wanting to complete a law degree can choose the university’s accelerated law option which allows them to take relevant law courses before entering law school. The university also offers a unique Ambassador-in-Residence program which gives students a chance to stay with a retired American diplomat who provides real-world experiences and guidance.
8. Texas Tech University
Located in Lubbock, Texas, Texas Tech University manages to keep its online degrees affordable by charging a rate similar to in-state tuition for all students while still providing the same award-winning and recognized faculty to teach each course. The university has a great Bachelor of Arts in Political Science which provides a broad understanding and foundational knowledge of the inner workings of politics. This degree also offers students the ability to take certain classes and complete specific requirements if they desire a teaching certification upon the completion of the program.
9. University of Massachusetts – Dartmouth
The University of Massachusetts – Dartmouth boasts an entirely online Bachelor of Arts in Political Science. While the degree requires 120 credit hours for completion, this university has a generous transfer policy that allows students to bring up to 75 credits from another college. This political science program also has a built-in 3-credit internship opportunity which allows students to further their political knowledge with an internship of their choice (subject to department approval).
10. Central Michigan University
Central Michigan University in Mount Pleasant offers a great Bachelor of Science in Political Science for students who wish to earn their degree from the comfort of their own homes. The degree features a customizable curriculum that allows students to create a plan that best aligns with their career path, picking classes from fields such as international relations and comparative politics. Students enrolled at this university can also take advantage of the unique Prior Learning Credit system, which allows interested candidates to earn college credit for relevant experiences they have had since high school.
11. Arkansas State University-Main Campus
Boasting an impressive 100% law school placement rate, Arkansas State University in Jonesboro, Arkansas, offers their Bachelor of Arts in Political Science entirely online. This 120-credit-hour degree is affordable as well with a low cost per credit hour. Online students at this university will be assigned a qualified teaching assistant with either a master’s or doctorate degree that assists them throughout their online experience. Students who choose to study political science at this university will come out with a strong background in political theory and will be prepared to begin their career or continue their education on multiple paths.
12. University of Missouri – St. Louis
The University of Missouri – St. Louis offers the same Bachelor of Arts in Political Science as they do on campus entirely online. Those who choose to enroll in this program will get the opportunity to pick from a wide range of electives and concentration options to complement their political studies, such as criminal justice and history. Students in this program can take advantage of the university’s Public Affairs Internship Program which offers the opportunity to earn credits for serving in areas such as the court system or in a local government setting. This practical experience combined with a wealth of variety in online course offerings allows students to completely prepare themselves for a political career.
13. Florida International University
Through the FIU Online system, Florida International University in Miami offers their Bachelor of Arts in Political Science program. Students at this university are paired with their own success coach to provide personal guidance along their academic journey, and online students are still able to join the prestigious Honors College to further take advantage of their education. Students within the political science program can choose to generalize their curriculum or take specific classes in the field they most desire through the breadth requirement that includes four general fields of specialization: American Politics, Comparative Politics, International Politics, and Political Theory.
14. University of Central Florida
University of Central Florida out of Orlando, Florida, offers a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science entirely online for students looking to work in the private sector or continue to advance their studies after graduation. Students in this program can choose to gain valuable in-person experience through internships in unique and relevant places such as a campaign headquarters or within a government office. This blend of real-world experience and top-notch online instruction at a low cost makes this degree a great choice for those interested in political science.
15. Arizona State University
Arizona State University in Tempe uniquely offers two separate degrees for political science: a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and a Bachelor of Science in Political Science. Both programs prepare students for wherever their political career may take them, but the BA path focuses more on classes rooted in history and philosophy while the BS focuses on theories and problem solving. As a student at this university, one can expect a rigorous course schedule with renowned faculty leading the way.
16. University of North Alabama
Located in Florence, Alabama, the University of North Alabama offers their bachelor’s degree program in political science entirely online in both Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Arts formats. Although this program is intended for those who wish to go into law school, graduates of this program will find themselves ready to take on jobs in policy and government. This university also has a chapter of the Pi Sigma Alpha honor society and a Political Science club for those who wish to further their engagement, as well as hosting College Democrats and College Republicans groups for online students.
17. Indiana University – East
Indiana University East in Richmond, Indiana, offers a Bachelor of Science in Political Science for those who wish to bring their education online. This program, intended for students who need less than 60 credit hours to complete their degree, pairs students with an academic advisor who will help create an individual plan depending on the time of enrollment. This great degree path features a focus on writing and research, emphasizing the importance of well-written work and culminating in a final senior writing research project. Students may also be eligible to join the Honors Program Online, featuring exclusive synchronous virtual workshops and a dedicated peer advisor.
18. Southern New Hampshire University
Southern New Hampshire University hosts their Bachelor of Arts in Political Science that focuses on the U.S. political system, the policies that shape government, and the public perception of the government. This Manchester, New Hampshire school offers with low credit costs and faculty with real-world experience in political fields as well as allows students to transfer up to 90 credits towards their degree – making this program choice both quick and affordable. Students in this program have 12 major elective credits that are to be put towards a range of related courses, but they can also choose to complete hands-on learning experiences in their own local community.
19. Kennesaw State University
Kennesaw State University in Kennesaw, Georgia, hosts a range of degree offerings online, including their Bachelor of Science in Political Science. This university combines state-of-the-art technologies with intense, high-quality courses to ensure a quality education even from behind a computer screen. Those who choose to pursue a degree in political science are also heavily encouraged by the school to complete a cooperative study program at a government site to further their real-world experience.
20. University of West Georgia
Located in Carrollton, Georgia, the University of West Georgia offers their Bachelor of Science in Political Science completely online for students across the country. As the school’s most popular degree program, students can be assured they will receive an accredited, personal, and quality education on their own terms. Those who choose to complete this online degree will take a sampling of varied courses in areas such as political theory and comparative politics, ending their educational career with a final capstone project in their senior year.
21. University of Illinois at Springfield
The University of Illinois at Springfield offers students a high-quality education with the added flexibility of online coursework through their Bachelor of Arts in Political Science. Students who select on this online major will have access to a variety be able to explore topics related to public policy, American politics, international relations, political philosophy, and political campaigns. In online BA in Political Science program, students will feel accommodated by low e-tuition rates countrywide and classes scheduled to fit various time zones, as well as the option to complete required fieldwork at a location of their choice.
22. Liberty University
Liberty University, a nonprofit Christian college in Lynchburg, Virginia, offers their Bachelor of Science in Political Science as part of their online degree options. This university keeps Christian principles at the forefront, allowing for a unique combination of biblical principles with theoretical political knowledge that can only be found here. While the program focuses mainly on American politics there is also a focus on global topics, international relations, and the ways in which Christian values have impacted our own government. This degree is extremely flexible with 8 different course start dates throughout the calendar year, and each class is only 8 weeks long to allow for this 120-credit-hour degree to be completed in under 4 years.
23. Fort Valley State University
Fort Valley State University in Fort Valley, Georgia, offers their Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with a entirely online option, allowing students to enroll and complete their degree without ever being on campus. This program gives students the knowledge required to succeed in public office through a variety of courses in legislative processes, politics in developing countries, and minority politics. Students who enroll in the political science major will also find many beneficial extracurriculars available to online students, such as the FVSU History Students Association and the school’s chapter of Pi Gamma Mu.
Learn.org’s school ranking methodology categorizes and assesses data from schools and other reliable sources, such as the U.S. Department of Education, and weighs the information based on quality, cost, value and other factors critical to students’ academic decisions.
Online Political Science Degree Overview
Online degree programs in the field of political science are usually available at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Students can commonly pursue multiple types of online associate’s, bachelor’s, and master’s degree programs in the field, as well as graduate certificate programs, while doctoral degree programs in the field are typically only offered on-campus. These online programs are usually available fully online and provide students with opportunities to customize and focus their studies on a particular area of political science through minors, concentrations, and more. Coursework for these degree programs help further develop students’ critical-thinking skills and equip them to conduct research in the field. Graduate-level degree programs may have additional requirements outside of core and elective courses. Many of these degree programs allow students to transfer in a certain amount of credit from other institutions. Explore the different levels of online degree programs in political science and how they can help prepare students for their future.
Online Associate Degrees in Political Science
Online associate’s degree programs in political science are typically offered as an Associate of Arts (AA) degree and provide learners with an introduction to the field of political science. Some programs may even be offered as a transfer associate’s degree program that ensures students meet the general education requirements for a particular 4-year institution, guaranteeing a smooth transfer of credits. Students in a political science pathway or major usually complete 60 to 90 hours of coursework, including around 18 credit hours of core political science courses. Students may also take some support courses in the field that allow them to focus their studies in areas like politics, policy, or international relations. This may result in a grand total of around 35 credits toward a bachelor’s degree in political science. Graduates of these programs generally have further developed their writing and research skills and understand major themes in political science.
Online Bachelor’s Degrees in Political Science
Online Bachelor’s degree programs in political science are available as BA or BS degrees. These programs most commonly require around 120 credits, although some programs may require as many as 180 credits. Depending on the program, transfer students may be able to transfer in up to 90 credits towards their degree. Students in these programs are typically required to take some general education courses, major courses, electives, and/or courses in their given area of concentration. Some of these degree programs may offer additional minors or undergraduate certificates. Typically, these programs can be completed fully online, but some programs may also offer a range of internship experiences that are usually optional and help provide students with hands-on learning opportunities that can provide skills to be applied to a future career. Graduates of these degree programs may pursue entry-level careers in the field, but many go on to pursue advanced education in political science.
Online Master’s Degrees in Political Science
Online master’s degree programs in political science are plentiful and are available as a Master of Arts (MA) or Master of Science (MS) degree. These programs are typically designed for students interested in teaching or pursuing an advanced degree in the field of political science or working in the field of politics, and can be completed in around 2 years. Students are usually able to focus their studies in a particular area of concentration and/or add a graduate certificate in a specific area, like government or national security. Coursework also commonly includes seminar courses that provide discussions about a wide range of topics in the field. Some programs may offer a thesis and non-thesis option, where non-thesis students may be required to complete a final comprehensive exam with written and oral components. Depending on the program, students may be allowed to transfer in credit from other institutions to count toward their degree.
Online Doctoral Degrees in Political Science
Due to the hands-on, research-based nature of the field, doctoral degree programs in political science are rarely, if ever, available in online formats. These degree programs are typically designed for students wishing to pursue a career in research or academia in political science. Students are usually expected to complete additional responsibilities outside of coursework, such as serving as a research and/or teaching assistant throughout the program. Most Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programs in political science require students to choose both a primary and secondary field of study and/or a minor field, and complete between 36 and 42 credits of core coursework before starting their dissertation. Also prior to the dissertation, learners must complete qualifying examinations. The dissertation portion requires research and a paper, as well as an oral defense. Many doctoral programs in the field provide opportunities for students to pay for schooling through fellowships and/or assistantships for teaching or research.
Online Certificates in Political Science
Certificate programs in political science are available at both the undergraduate and graduate levels, but undergraduate certificates in political science may not be as commonly available in online formats as graduate certificates. Graduate certificate programs in political science typically require around 18 credits and may also be available in related areas like government or intelligence and national security. These programs can commonly be taken independently or in conjunction with a graduate degree program and are designed to provide students with additional career-applicable knowledge and skills in the field. Some certificates may even help meet the requirements for special eligibility, such as the Higher Learning Commission’s dual-credit qualification, which would enable them to teach dual-credit courses. Coursework for these programs is generally composed of 6 courses, which may be all core courses or consist of some required courses and some electives. Usually, these programs can be completed in 1 year.
Concentrations in Political Science
There are several online bachelor’s degree programs in political science that provide students the opportunity to specialize or focus their studies in a particular subfield of political science. These concentration areas can help students prepare for advanced education and/or a specific career after graduation. Sometimes these areas may be offered as a minor or undergraduate certificate option, but several online political science programs offer specializations in areas like:
- Public administration
- Pre-law
- International relations/affairs
- Comparative politics
- Environmental and energy politics
- American institutions
Common Courses for a Bachelor’s in Political Science Degree
Coursework for online bachelor’s degree programs in political science varies by institution and/or concentration area, but students generally take some core courses from various areas in the subject, such as government and international relations. Although course titles may differ, some of the common core subjects for these online degree programs include topics in:
- Political Theory/Thought– Courses in political theory or thought usually discuss the history of political systems and the different ideas of major political theorists. Some of these courses may incorporate the exploration of cultural and social influences on these theorists and how it helped developed their theories.
- International Relations– Introductory courses to international relations generally provide students with a broad overview of the subject, including topics in international law, national interests, and the roles of nations/states. Students may explore the different factors that influence world politics and/or concepts of realism and idealism.
- Comparative Politics– Courses in comparative politics are also usually introductory courses that begin to explain to students how political systems develop based on national identities. Students may explore how factors like geography and culture affect these systems and discuss areas like Europe, the United States, and developing countries.
- American Politics– In American politics courses students learn about the analysis of American politics. These courses often explore the roles of the president, Congress, the courts, interest groups, the media, and the Constitution in shaping politics in our country.
- Research Methods in Political Science– Some courses in the analysis and research of political science may focus on applied research methods and statistics, while other courses may explore the qualitative and quantitative methods of political science. Students may explore topics in data collection, hypothesis, and experimental design through case studies and other activities.
Some online bachelor’s degree programs in political science may conclude with a capstone course. These courses may require students to complete some kind of final project or experience that assesses students’ knowledge and skills they have gained throughout the program.
How Long Does it Take to Get an Online Bachelor’s in Political Science?
Like most traditional bachelor’s degree programs, online bachelor’s degree programs in political science usually take 4 years to complete and several programs offer courses in 8-week terms. However, there are some programs that take as little as 3.5 years to complete. Students who have an associate’s degree or other undergraduate coursework may be able to transfer in some of their work to count towards their bachelor’s degree, which can also decrease the time it takes to complete the degree. There are some online programs that allow students to transfer up to 90 credits, but these programs usually have a minimum requirement for upper-division courses that must be completed through the institution.
Accreditation for Online Bachelor’s Degrees in Political Science
Accreditation is an important consideration for students searching for a program because it indicates that the program and/or institution have met specific academic standards of quality. Most online bachelor’s programs in political science do not have program-specific accreditation. However, many of these programs are available from accredited institutions. These schools are usually accredited by regional accreditation organizations, such as the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, the New England Commission of Higher Education, or the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Political Science Licensure & Certification
While there are not usually professional certifications or licenses designated specifically for political science, there are a variety of professional organizations that provide membership and resources for those in the field. Since political science can also be applied to a wide range of careers across various fields and industries, graduates with a degree in political science may need to pursue certification or licensure outside of the field. For example, many political science graduates may wish to work as teachers in a public school, which requires students to earn a state teaching license or certification. While requirements vary by state, aspiring teachers usually need to have a background check, complete a student-teaching program, and pass a teaching certification exam. Other possible careers, such as a public relations manager may have optional certifications, such as certification through the Public Relations Society of America. There are also general credentials earned after taking certification exams, like those offered by the International Association of Business Communicators for professionals with 6 to 8 years of experience, that multiple careers may benefit from, including careers in politics and public relations.
Political Science Career Information
Some of the most common careers for graduates with a degree in political science include political scientists, educators, or a career in politics. Most political scientists need to have at least a master’s degree and postsecondary educators usually need a doctoral degree, although some smaller institutions may accept those with only a master’s degree. However, graduates with their bachelor’s degree in political science can pursue a wide range of careers in various industries, such as education, government, business, public relations, and journalism. Some graduates go on to pursue advanced degrees in areas like law, public policy, or business, while others can pursue jobs at non-profit organizations or interest groups involved in politics and/or with political campaigns. Some job titles for those with a bachelor’s degree in political science include:
- Policy analyst
- Journalist
- Elections coordinator
- Political researcher
- Fundraising specialist
- Community development manager
- Regulatory affairs manager
- Public administrator
How to Become a Public Relations and Fundraising Manager
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), public relations and fundraising managers made a median annual salary of $114,800, as of 2018. These managers had a job outlook of 8% from 2018 to 2028, which is faster than the national average. Public relations managers help create and maintain a positive public image of their employer, while fundraising managers help develop a strategy and oversee events to raise funds for their organization. These professionals can work for the government or non-profit organizations, as well as campaigns and other businesses.
How to Become a Reporter and Correspondent
In 2018, the median salary for reporters and correspondents was $41,260, per the BLS. These professionals had a negative job outlook of -12% from 2018 to 2028. Some reporters and correspondents specialize in various subject areas, such as political science, and help inform readers, listeners, and/or viewers of current news topics. These professionals can work for a range of media platforms and report on stories at the local, national, or international levels.
How to Become a High School Teacher
The median salary for high school teachers in 2018 was $60,320, according to the BLS. The job outlook for these educators was 4% from 2018 to 2028, which is as fast as average. High school teachers with a background in political science teach courses in history or government and are responsible for teaching students who are usually in the 9th to 12th grades. This involves developing curriculum, enforcing school and classroom rules, and communicating with parents and administrative staff. High school teachers in public schools must obtain a state teaching license/certificate.
Professional Organizations in Political Science
There is an array of professional organizations in the field of political science that provide professionals in political science with a variety of resources. These organizations are available at the regional, national, and even international levels. A few examples include:
- Midwest Political Science Association (MPSA)– MPSA offers membership and a variety of advocacy groups and coalitions. From their website professionals can access publications, research professional development opportunities, and find information on the organization’s annual conference.
- American Political Science Association (APSA)– APSA also offers membership and a wide range of programs, including advocacy and international groups, diversity fellowship and mentorship programs, and scholarships. The website provides professionals with publications, upcoming event information, career information, and teaching resources.
- International Political Science Association (IPSA)– IPSA offers membership at the individual, institutional, and collective levels. The website provides access to publications, news, event information, and summer school locations.
Financial Aid and Scholarship Information for Political Science Degrees
Many students need to consider the cost of an online bachelor’s program in political science to help make their decision of which school to choose. Although tuition rates vary by institution, some online programs in the field charge around $309 to $409 per credit hour. Students should be sure to check for any additional fees, such as a graduation fee or additional course materials. Some online students also need to purchase equipment, such as a computer or laptop, to meet online learning technical requirements.
To help reduce costs, most political science programs accept various forms of financial aid. Students may be able to apply for grants, loans, and/or scholarships from various sources to help cut the cost of the program. Many schools also offer discounts for military students, which sometimes reduces the cost to as much as $250 per credit hour. Programs that accept transfer credit could also help reduce the cost of a program.
Scholarships are another great way to reduce the cost of a program. Some schools may allow students to apply for institutional scholarships after being accepted, but students can also search for outside scholarships. Some available scholarships for political science students include:
- The Constitutional Officers Association of Georgia (COAG) Scholarship– This scholarship is available to senior students in Georgia. The organization offers 4 scholarships at $1,000 each.
- Enid Hall Griswold Memorial Scholarship– This scholarship is awarded to junior or senior students majoring in political science, history, economics, or government. The scholarship awards a one-time amount of $5,000.
How to Choose an Online Bachelor’s in Political Science
Choosing the right online bachelor’s degree in political science may require the consideration of several different factors. Students should first consider their personal interests and/or career goals and may want to find an online program that offers a concentration in that given area. For example, someone interested in international politics and policies may want to find a program that offers a specialization in international relations or international affairs.
Another consideration may be the format and length of a program. Some students may prefer a program that is self-paced, allows students to log in at any time to complete work, and/or allows students to finish faster than 4 years. Students can also find online programs in political science that offer various start dates throughout the year for flexibility and may allow students to begin right away. Depending on their background, students may need to find a program that accepts transfer credit. Students should also think about any in-person requirements or opportunities they would like to have, such as internship experiences. Read on to explore a couple more considerations in more depth.
