Guide to Top Online Political Science Bachelor’s Degrees
Earning a bachelor’s degree in political science online can set the stage for a successful career in politics, economics, or public policy. Check out our list of the top colleges and universities that offer online political science programs, learn more about the courses you’ll take, and get the answers you need.
If you’re interested in the history of governance and how political systems work, then an online political science degreeis a great way to launch your career in high-impact fields like economics and public policy. And thanks to the convenience of online learning, completing your studies is easier and more affordable than ever.
In this guide, you’ll find top-rated online political science bachelor’sdegree programs, learn the importance of accreditation, discover popular course offerings and major career paths, and get answers to frequently asked questions. Keep reading for more on what you need to know about these advanced degree programs.
Best Online Political Science Degrees: Top Bachelor’s Programs
We’ve identified the best online political science degree programs—based on flexibility, accreditation, affordability, and academic quality—to help you narrow down potential schools. These programs combine rigorous, comprehensive study with convenient and accommodating delivery methods, offering solid preparation for further study or an entry-level career. Begin your school search and find out which programs stand out below.
Sam Houston State University
Huntsville, Texas
Public
University of Illinois Springfield
Springfield, Illinois
Public
Liberty University
Lynchburg, Virginia
Private
Southern New Hampshire University
Manchester, New Hampshire
Private
Fayetteville State University
Fayetteville, North Carolina
Public
Virginia Tech
Blacksburg, Virginia
Public
University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Charlotte, North Carolina
Public
Florida International University
Miami, Florida
Public
Saint Cloud State University
Saint Cloud, Minnesota
Public
University of Central Florida
Orlando, Florida
Public
Arkansas State University
Jonesboro, Arkansas
Public
University of Iowa
Iowa City, Iowa
Public
Indiana University-Bloomington
Bloomington, Indiana
Public
Western Illinois University
Macomb, Illinois
Public
University of Alaska Fairbanks
Fairbanks, Alaska
Public
Texas Tech University
Lubbock, Texas
Public
Indiana University-East
Richmond, Indiana
Public
Eastern Kentucky University
Richmond, Kentucky
Public
University of Nebraska at Omaha
Omaha, Nebraska
Public
The University of Texas Permian Basin
Odessa, Texas
Public
University of Alaska Anchorage
Anchorage, Alaska
Public
University of Arizona
Tucson, Arizona
Public
Old Dominion University
Norfolk, Virginia
Public
University of Maine
Orono, Maine
Public
University of Louisville
Louisville, Kentucky
Public
Northern Illinois University
Dekalb, Illinois
Public
University of Wisconsin-Whitewater
Whitewater, Wisconsin
Public
University of West Georgia
Carrollton, Georgia
Public
Northeastern State University
Tahlequah, Oklahoma
Public
Georgia State University
Atlanta, Georgia
Public
Oregon State University
Corvallis, Oregon
Public
Troy University
Troy, Alabama
Public
Indiana University-Northwest
Gary, Indiana
Public
Columbus State University
Columbus, Georgia
Public
Indiana University-Southeast
New Albany, Indiana
Public
Fort Hays State University
Hays, Kansas
Public
University of Memphis
Memphis, Tennessee
Public
University of Missouri-St Louis
Saint Louis, Missouri
Public
Indiana University-South Bend
South Bend, Indiana
Public
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Public
Wilmington University
New Castle, Delaware
Private
University of Louisiana at Monroe
Monroe, Louisiana
Public
Nicholls State University
Thibodaux, Louisiana
Public
Arkansas Tech University
Russellville, Arkansas
Public
Southern Utah University
Cedar City, Utah
Public
Kennesaw State University
Kennesaw, Georgia
Public
Columbia College
Columbia, Missouri
Private
University of Wisconsin-La Crosse
La Crosse, Wisconsin
Public
Idaho State University
Pocatello, Idaho
Public
Indiana University-Kokomo
Kokomo, Indiana
Public
Pasadena City College
Pasadena, California
Public
College of San Mateo
San Mateo, California
Public
Saddleback College
Mission Viejo, California
Public
Napa Valley College
Napa, California
Public
Bunker Hill Community College
Boston, Massachusetts
Public
San Bernardino Valley College
San Bernardino, California
Public
Panola College
Carthage, Texas
Public
Sacramento City College
Sacramento, California
Public
Copiah-Lincoln Community College
Wesson, Mississippi
Public
Cerritos College
Norwalk, California
Public
Barton County Community College
Great Bend, Kansas
Public
College of the Redwoods
Eureka, California
Public
Porterville College
Porterville, California
Public
East Mississippi Community College
Scooba, Mississippi
Public
Mesa Community College
Mesa, Arizona
Public
Compton College
Compton, California
Public
Mt Hood Community College
Gresham, Oregon
Public
What You’ll Learn in an Online Political Science Bachelor’s Degree Program
Political science is a branch of social science that examines systems of governance, politics, and behavior. Online bachelor’s degree programs in political science programs teach students the fundamentals of the field and bring applied topics into conversation with broader concerns in the social sciences. This includes establishing a clear knowledge base in the history and development of key political ideas like justice and civil rights, and developing facility with the methods of inquiry and research used by political scientists.
Most programs satisfy these learning outcomes by beginning with core instruction and then building to more advanced seminars. Along the way, students receive plenty of opportunities to bring their interests into sharper interdisciplinary focus. Depending on the school, your program may conclude with an integrative capstone requirement that prepares you for professional work or further study.
Common Classes in Online Political Science Bachelor’s Degree Programs
Specific course titles tend to vary depending on the school, but most programs offer a similar curriculum overall. Most students begin with political science foundations and then move to broader applications as graduation approaches. The offerings detailed below stand as a good example of what you can expect when you begin your studies.
Introduction to Political Theory
A prerequisite for upper-level coursework in most programs, this course offers a survey of the history and development of political theory with a focus on western civilizations. It explores the philosophical origins of critical concepts like justice, sovereignty, and citizenship and assesses their use in various contexts.
Comparative Politics and Governance
Students in this class develop the skills necessary to compare, discuss, and evaluate different forms of government and political interaction by examining a diverse range of contemporary and historical case studies. Topics include socio-cultural factors, theories of political change, electoral systems, globalization, and the role of ideology in collective political life.
Political Science Research Methods
Drawing on a range of sources in philosophy and the social sciences, this class introduces the main modes of inquiry and empirical investigation used by political scientists. Students learn to study politics from either a humanistic or scientific standpoint and practice applying prominent theories to develop new hypotheses or critique existing ones.
American Politics, Governance, and Policy
This course surveys the history of American political institutions, including their governing methods, policy features, and main sociological characteristics. It develops hard skills in policy analysis and covers topics like public opinion, the effects of mass media, and the historical role of special interest groups in American society.
Political Science Capstone
Most online political science degrees conclude with a capstone requirement. Students develop either a research thesis or a professional portfolio depending on their interests. In both cases, the objective is to synthesize, integrate, and apply acquired skills and knowledge in new ways that lay the groundwork for career advancement.
Accreditation Standards for Online Political Science Degrees
Accreditation ensures that colleges or universities meet the highest standards of quality, rigor, and excellence. Think of it as an independent quality assurance measure that protects the integrity of your education and, by extension, your future. Thus, you should always verify a potential school’s accreditation status.
Of the two types of accreditation—regional and national—regional accreditation is the most common. Outside agencies recognized by the U.S. Department of Education (DOE) or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) usually carry out the accreditation process. Sometimes individual programs obtain additional, programmatic accreditation specific to their discipline. However, this is currently not the case with political science, so prospective students should look for regional accreditation when conducting research. To verify accreditation status, check the school’s website, the DOE, or the CHEA.
FAQs About Earning Your Political Science Bachelor’s Online
How long will it take me to earn a bachelor’s in political science online?
Most students finish their online political science degreein four years or less, but many can finish much faster. For example, if you transfer in credits from previous study, you may be able to reduce your timeframe by a significant margin.
Online programs tend to offer more options for expedited or self-paced study. Although these options can be more demanding upfront, you can complete core requirements in less time. On the other hand, if you’re considering part-time study, you should plan to take a bit longer than the average timeframe.
How much do online political science degrees cost at the bachelor’s level?
Higher education requires a significant financial commitment. Having a clear sense of the costs and available aid upfront puts you in a better position to finance your education without added stress.
We’ve selected three online political science programs and included the tuition for each below. Rates can vary quite a bit depending on the type of school (public colleges tend to be cheaper), your enrollment status (part-time study can be more expensive), and where you live (even for online programs sometimes).
| School Name | No. of Credits | Cost/Credit | Total Tuition Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Southern New Hampshire University Political Science Degree Online (BA) | 120 | $330/credit | $39,600 |
| Florida International University Online Bachelor of Arts – Political Science | 120 | $235.57/credit (in-state) $648.87/credit (out-of-state) | $28,268.40 (in-state) $77,864.40 (out-of-state) |
| The University of Arizona Political Science – Bachelor of Arts | 115 | $500/credit | $57,500 |
What are the typical admissions requirements for online political science bachelor’s degrees?
You should always consult each prospective school for specifics, but most programs follow the same admissions process and require similar materials. You’ll want to put your best foot forward by submitting a competitive application that includes the following items:
- Official transcripts for all previous academic work (especially important for transfer students)
- A professional resume or CV detailing relevant work or volunteer experience
- Recent ACT or SAT scores (most schools accept both)
- A letter of recommendation from a former teacher or mentor who can evaluate your skills and assess your readiness for study
- A personal statement that discusses your background, long-term goals, and fit within the program (some schools may provide an essay question)
Some programs may require extra steps, like an interview, for example.
Can I earn my political science bachelor’s 100% online?
Political science requires fewer hands-on elements than other fields, which makes it much easier to complete online. There could be exceptions depending on the school or program, but in most cases, prospective students should have no trouble completing their course of study entirely online.
Many schools anticipate this and extend flexible, convenient delivery methods that can accommodate most circumstances. If there are in-person or on-campus requirements, programs will likely work with you to make arrangements in your local area.
Is it better to get a BS or BA in political science?
Neither option is inherently better. Both qualify you for a range of professions and provide solid preparation for further study (see below). However, each degree impacts your acquired skill set and professional standing in different ways.
BA programs focus more on the humanistic side of things and bring political science into conversation with other disciplines in the liberal arts. The BS pathway adopts a similar approach but focuses more on scientific modes of inquiry, quantitative data, and empirical investigation.
What Can You Do with a Bachelor’s in Political Science?
Political science degree-holders can follow a variety of career paths. Some of these professions directly engage with politics in more traditional ways, such as consulting, research. Others draw on the broad base of skills and knowledge acquired in political science programs to advance adjacent work in similar fields like public relations.
Whichever path you choose, earning an online bachelor’s degree in political science puts you in a good position to begin a successful, lucrative, and rewarding career.
Paralegals work with lawyers and attorneys to provide high-level support across a variety of administrative and research-oriented tasks. They may work in private practices, but many obtain employment in larger firms that focus on politics and governmental oversight. Typical duties include fact-finding and case investigation, evidence analysis, and preparation of legal documents.
Median Annual Earnings (2023)
$60,970
Job Growth (2022-2032)
4%
These media professionals use their expertise in disciplines like political science to inform the general public and offer analysis of the news and other current events. They research relevant topics, investigate new story ideas, and offer their own reporting. Most work for magazines, newspapers, television and radio, or online media outlets.
Median Annual Earnings (2023)
$57,500
Job Growth (2022-2032)
-3%
Market research analysts study current market condition in order to enhance potential sales of a service or product and forecast future trends. They are often tasked with analyzing consumer behavior and work to measure the effectiveness of their organization’s strategy. They usually work in-house or for large firms with a range of clients.
Median Annual Earnings (2023)
$74,680
Job Growth (2022-2032)
13%
These professionals work at the intersection of politics and marketing. They fashion a favorable public image for the clients they represent and work to maintain that image across time, often in the wake of controversies or threats. They prepare press releases, manage media contacts, develop public interfacing strategies, and offer communications advice.
Median Annual Earnings (2023)
$61,150
Job Growth (2022-2032)
7%
Analysts in this area use their expertise in economics or political science offer guidance to individuals or organizations seeking to make wise investment decisions. They examine current trend and often measure them against available historical data. They also analyze their clients’ financial standing and prepare researched reports, portfolios, and other white papers.
Median Annual Earnings (2023)
$99,890
Job Growth (2022-2032)
8%
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
After Your Bachelor’s in Political Science Online: Advanced Degree Options
Earning an online bachelor’s degree in political science helps you meet the requirements to pursue graduate degrees. It lays a solid foundation in the social sciences with versatility you can apply to other areas or industries.
We’ve already discussed how a bachelor’s degree qualifies you for a broad range of entry-level positions. Many aspiring professionals decide to take things a step further by pursuing graduate studies in one of the disciplines listed below. Doing so allows you to further develop your expertise, which usually leads to increased earning power with broader professional opportunities and responsibilities.
Additional Resources for Political Science Students and Professionals
Current students and recent graduates of online political science bachelor’s degree programs have access to several resources because the field is so prominent. Professional organizations and support centers like those listed below offer a range of practical tools to help you advance your career. They can also keep you up to date with the most recent news and developments.
- American Association for Public Opinion Research
Headquartered in Washington, D.C., this organization advances the science and practice of public polling and research. It connects professionals with organizations in need and educates both the public and top policymakers. - American Association of Political Consultants
A great resource for those interested in public relations, this association supports political consultants across job sectors. It hosts regular events, awards outstanding consulting work, and extends a nationwide job board accessible to members and non-members alike. - American Political Science Association
Founded in 1903, the American Political Science Association remains the leading political science organization for professionals in the U.S. It sponsors virtual and in-person conferences, publishes cutting-edge research, and offers several continuing education and professional development programs. - American Society for Public Administration
Designed for professionals working in the public service sector, the ASPA supports quite a few local chapters across the country. It offers a range of resources designed for students and new professionals, including a job board, a young scholars program, and a career development summit. - International Association for Political Science Students
The only student-centered organization of its kind, this association connects political science learners across national borders. It offers support for students at every level of educational attainment and publicizes recent scholarship in the field. - Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration
An excellent resource for prospective students, the NASPAA lists relevant schools and offers information on accreditation. It also maintains a robust data center and provides resources and guides for both teachers and students. - Pi Sigma Alpha
The national honor society for political science, this organization has local chapters at colleges and universities throughout the U.S. and offers financial aid to outstanding scholars with the potential for continued success. - The American Academy of Political and Social Science
An interdisciplinary organization, the AAPSS brings together experts in political science and other social sciences surrounding policy issues. It recognizes outstanding contributions to those areas, disseminates recent scholarship, and hosts a variety of events. - The Society for Political Methodology
Established in 1893, this society focuses on quantitative political science and the research methods that facilitate those endeavors. It aggregates recent news, publishes calls for papers and furthers research, and offers resources for new scholars and current professionals. - This is why I study Poli Sci
Published by Colorado State University, this article examines why prospective students might want to study political science. Drawing on stories from successful alumni, it details possible career paths and areas of study, work, and research.