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 for 2024
We’ve identified 50 of 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.
College Ranking Methodology
Generate List of Eligible Schools and Programs
To be eligible for this ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria based on government data provided by The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS).
- Institutional accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
- At least one program in the subject area offered partially or fully online.
- Career placement and academic counseling services.
Assign Weightings
After generating the list of eligible schools, the STEPS data team then assigned weights and ranked schools based on their performance in a variety of key categories. Affordability metrics received the heaviest weightings, followed by online learning and academic quality metrics (equally weighted).
Affordability
- Relative cost of attendance compared to peer schools on the list. Based on in-state tuition for undergraduate students per academic year.
- Percentage of students who receive institutional financial aid (directly from the school).
- Average amount of institutional financial aid awarded.
Online Learning
- Number of online programs in subject area self-reported by school to the U.S. Department of Education.
- Percentage of students at the school taking at least one class online.
Academic Quality
- Student-to-faculty ratio.
- Percentage of full-time, first-time students graduating within 6 years.
About Our Data
All STEPS rankings use the latest official data available from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Most recent data pull: August 2023
Accreditation Glossary
ABHE: Association for Biblical Higher Education, Commission on Accreditation
ABHES: Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools
ACCJC: Western Association of Schools and Colleges Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges
ACCSC: Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges
DEAC: Distance Education Accrediting Commission
HLC: Higher Learning Commission
MSCHE: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
NECHE: New England Commission of Higher Education
NWCCU: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
SACSCOC: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
TRACS: Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools, Accreditation Commission
WSCUC: Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
1
Jonesboro, Arkansas
Students who wish to earn a college degree without having to set foot on campus will appreciate Arkansas State University's 100% online Bachelor of Arts in Political Science degree. The vast majority of these courses can be taken asynchronously, meaning no set class times. Students can complete class requirements at any time and from anywhere. Despite not learning on campus, students still have access to the same student services, such as the A-State Online Writing Center. Not only can students earn their degree fully online, but they also can satisfy up to 75% of the required coursework through transfer credits. And because of the universal nature of the political science curriculum, students can easily use this degree to double major in another area of study, like sociology, business administration, criminology, or communication studies. As for the cost of attendance, all students, no matter where they reside, will enjoy the same low tuition rate.
Program Highlights:
Bachelor of Arts in Political Science
- Credits: 120
- Length: About 4 years
- Cost: $276/credit
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: HLC
2
Orono, Maine
The Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of Maine is a model of flexible learning. The most notable feature of this program is its 100% online course delivery. Although many courses have deadlines for some assignments, the bulk of the online learning can occur at any time that's convenient for the student. Additionally, special technology isn't required, as most students only need a broadband internet connection along with a tablet or laptop. Students can begin their coursework during one of three annual starting points: fall, spring, or summer semesters, thus making this a truly flexible learning option. Lastly, there are plenty of customized learning options available. For example, in addition to general electives, students can take 12 credits of political science electives.
Program Highlights:
Bachelor of Arts in Political Science
- Credits: 120
- Length: About 4 years
- Cost: $400/credit (resident), $500/credit (non-resident)
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: NECHE
3
Springfield, Illinois
The Bachelor of Arts in Political Science degree from the University of Illinois -- Springfield provides research skills and a deep understanding of the United States political system. To accommodate the various needs of students, this program is 100% online, with no in-person learning requirements. However, this program is also available in a hybrid format, where traditional students who enroll for on-campus learning can take online classes in addition to in-person classes. The online format of each course is up to the professor, who can choose to offer live lectures, pre-recorded lectures, or a combination of both. There's also an accelerated pathway that combines the bachelor of arts degree with a law degree. This allows students to earn both degrees in just six years instead of the usual seven.
Program Highlights:
Bachelor of Arts in Political Science
- Credits: 120
- Length: About 4 years
- Cost: $367.50/credit
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: HLC
4
Fayetteville, North Carolina
5
Norfolk, Virginia
6
Saint Louis, Missouri
7
Charlotte, North Carolina
8
Richmond, Kentucky
9
Lynchburg, Virginia
10
Macomb, Illinois
11
Fairbanks, Alaska
12
Hays, Kansas
13
Tucson, Arizona
14
Iowa City, Iowa
15
Odessa, Texas
16
Memphis, Tennessee
17
Troy, Alabama
18
Virginia Beach, Virginia
19
Orlando, Florida
20
Anchorage, Alaska
21
Florence, Alabama
22
Thibodaux, Louisiana
23
Dekalb, Illinois
24
Topeka, Kansas
25
Louisville, Kentucky
26
Corvallis, Oregon
27
Columbia, Missouri
28
Miami, Florida
29
Lubbock, Texas
30
Dickinson, North Dakota
31
Cedar City, Utah
32
Manchester, New Hampshire
33
Pocatello, Idaho
34
Huntsville, Texas
35
Russellville, Arkansas
36
Richmond, Indiana
37
Atlanta, Georgia
38
Tahlequah, Oklahoma
39
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
40
New Castle, Delaware
41
Kennesaw, Georgia
42
University Park, Pennsylvania
43
Pullman, Washington
44
North Dartmouth, Massachusetts
45
Carrollton, Georgia
46
Columbus, Georgia
47
Whitewater, Wisconsin
48
Fort Valley, Georgia
49
Scottsdale, Arizona
50
Dahlonega, Georgia
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 | $320/credit | $38,400 |
| Florida International University Online Bachelor of Arts – Political Science | 120 | $229/credit (in-state) $346/credit (out-of-state) | $27,480 (in-state) $41,520 (out-of-state) |
| The University of Arizona Political Science – Bachelor of Arts | 121 | $500/credit | $60,500 |
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 (2019)
$51,740
Job Growth (2019-2029)
10%
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 (2019)
$46,270
Job Growth (2019-2029)
-11%
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 (2019)
$63,790
Job Growth (2019-2029)
18%
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 (2019)
$61,150
Job Growth (2019-2029)
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 (2019)
$81,590
Job Growth (2019-2029)
5%
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.
