Find your perfect college degree
For those intrigued by political systems, policy-making, and international relations, a bachelor’s degree in Political Science offers a gateway to a transformative career. This degree program covers governance, diplomacy, and the challenges faced by governments worldwide.
Practical experiences and internships under the program enhance real-world understanding while transferable skills like analytical thinking and effective communication make graduates highly sought-after in various industries.
A graduate with a Political Science degree can pursue diverse paths, including political analysis, public administration, diplomacy, or campaign strategy.
Online Political Science programs feature general education courses while providing flexibility, enabling students to tailor their studies to particular interests and, most often, to complete the program in their own time.
Online programs are perfect for students who are working at the same time or have to balance work and responsibilities with their education.
In essence, a bachelor’s degree in Political Science empowers individuals to become influential contributors to shaping societies and nations. Through flexible online programs, students can embark on this transformative academic journey while managing other commitments effectively, opening doors to a world of impactful opportunities.
The Lowdown
Bachelor’s in Political Science degrees provide students with a comprehensive grasp of political systems, governance, and international relations. This program lays a strong foundation for a successful career in diverse fields related to politics and governance.
Upon completion, political science majors in this program have a range of career possibilities in both the government and non-government sectors. The versatility of a degree in Political Science opens doors to various career opportunities besides political scientist work, according to the Labor Statistics Bureau.
Graduates can contribute to shaping policies, advocating for change, and understanding the complexities of political institutions.
Methodology
A lot of educational institutions across the US provide online bachelor’s degree programs in Political Science. To simplify and expedite your decision-making process, we have compiled a list of esteemed colleges and universities offering top-notch online or hybrid Political Science bachelor’s degree programs.
The institutions listed below, presented in no particular order, were chosen based on specific criteria. Essentially, each online Bachelor’s in Political Science programs offered by these reputable educational institutions exhibit the following attributes:
- Delivered 100% online or as a blended Political Science learning program,
- Features a comprehensive curriculum with in-depth study of political systems, governance and international relations,
- Offers opportunities for internships, research, and hands-on learning,
- Emphasizes leadership in political environments, and analytical skills and critical thinking in political contexts,
- Provides undergraduate students the option to specialize in areas like Public Policy and International Relations,
- Gives students access to academic advisors, resources and student support,
- Presents relevant networking and research opportunities,
- Handled by professors with comprehensive experience and knowledge in the field,
- Connects students and graduates with alumni who have succeeded in various political careers,
- Earned approval and accreditation from academic agencies, demonstrating strong adherence to the standards of instruction.
Check out our Methodology for more information.
19 Best Online Bachelor’s in Political Science Programs
Arizona State University
(Online) Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science in Political Science
The Arizona State University, through ASU Online, offers more than 300 degree programs and certificates, including two undergraduate degrees in political science:
Each program requires students to complete 120 credit hours.
The political science bachelor’s degree program at ASU equips students with the valuable skills necessary to be successful in government, politics, business, and nonprofit careers. Some of the basic courses that political science students of ASU have to take include:
- Political Ideologies
- Empirical Political Inquiry
- Political Statistics
- Comparative Government
- Global Politics
The University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission to provide its degree programs through ASU Online. It is also an institutional participant in the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (SARA).
What Makes this Program Unique:
Diplomas completed through ASU Online will not specify that your bachelor in political science degree was completed online.
All transcripts and diplomas will simply say “Arizona State University,” as students of ASU Online will receive the same course content and learn from the same exceptional faculty as those under traditional, in-person programs.
Did You Know?
Some of the ASU alumni include Barbara Barrett, former U.S. Ambassador to Finland, and Vada Manager, former advisor to President Nelson Mandela.
Florida International University
Online Bachelor of Arts in Political Science
Florida International University offers fully online undergraduate degrees, including Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, requiring students to complete 120 credits.
The program provides students with a disciplined education and equips them with the skills of political analysis, setting them up for a thriving career in government, the private sector, or graduate study in various fields.
The University earned these accreditations:
- Southern Association of Colleges & Schools Commission on Colleges
- Council on Education for Public Health
- Council on Social Work Education
- Association of Professional Schools of International Affairs
- Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs & Administration
What Makes this Program Unique:
- Every student of the fully online degree program is paired with a success coach.
- Any fully online student can apply for the FIU Honors College program, where students can gain practical skills in cultural fluency, communication, interdisciplinary, and critical problem-solving, and rational analysis.
Did You Know?
The University ranks No. 1 in the U.S. for Quality Matters Certified online courses. The U.S. News & World Report also ranks FIU’s bachelor’s degrees as the Best Online Programs in 2023.
Some notable FIU alumni in the fields of politics and community service include:
- Carlos Alvarez, a Cuban American politician and Miami-Dade County’s former mayor;
- Manuel Diaz, a Cuban American politician and former mayor of Miami, Florida;
- Marleine Bastien, a political activist and social worker; and
- Betty Perry, a philanthropist.
Fort Hays State University
Bachelor of Arts/Science in Political Science (Hybrid)
Fort Hays State University offers online and on-campus programs for its Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science in Political Science degrees. The core courses of these programs include:
- Introduction to Public Policy
- Research Methods
- Senior Capstone
- Internship in Political Science
In essence, FHSU’s Bachelor of Arts program requires 10 hours of modern language coursework, while the Bachelor of Science requires 20 hours of Science, Math and/or Applied coursework. The BA program also requires 21 hours of electives, while the BS program only requires 11 hours.
What Makes this Program Unique:
BA/BS in Political Science students can choose to concentrate on the following fields:
- American Politics
- Democratic Engagement
- International Relations/Comparative Politics
- Political Theory
- Pre-Law
- Public Administration
FHSU claims to offer world-class higher education experience at the best value and unmatched affordability anywhere across the country.
Did You Know?
A virtual tour of the campus is available for anyone who wants to explore the FHSU grounds.
Indiana University
Online Bachelor of Science in Political Science
Indiana University offers a 100% Online Bachelor of Science in Political Science, which prepares students for a fruitful career as government executives, legislators, community organizers, non-profit administrators, political scientists, social activists, news analysts, and court reporters, among others.
Students are required to complete 120 credit hours in order to graduate with a BS in Political Science degree. The program also exposes students to the politics at federal, state, and local government levels through the applicable courses, including:
- Indiana politics
- Urban politics
- Contemporary revolutions
- Constitutional law
- Public opinion
What Makes this Program Unique:
Students who enroll in the IU Online program can enjoy the same quality education as those in on-campus classes since online courses are taught by the same exceptional faculty who teach on campus.
Did You Know?
- Indiana residents can enjoy lower tuition and fees compared to out-of-state residents. The University can also assist students in terms of available financial aid, scholarships and rewards.
- Dr. Elinor Ostrom (1933-2012) is one of the notable IU alumni. She was a political science professor and political economist at the University. She received the Nobel Prize for Economic Sciences for her analysis of economic governance.
Kennesaw State University
Bachelor of Science in Political Science (Online)
Kennesaw State University, through Learn Online, offers a wide range of degree programs at doctoral, master’s, and bachelor’s levels, as well as specialist education degrees, endorsements, minors, and certificate programs.
One of these valuable programs is the Bachelor of Science with a major in Political Science, designed for individuals who seriously take the responsibilities and opportunities of being in a democratic society. The program requires 120 credit hours, with these lower-division major requirements:
- Introduction to Data Science
- Introduction to Political Science
- Introduction to Comparative Politics
- Introduction to International Relations
- Political IdeologieResearch Methods
The University is SACSCOC-accredited.
What Makes this Program Unique:
Cooperative study programs and supervised internships at government, industry, and business sites are available for students to participate in.
KSU is proud of its legacy of providing a student-centered, research-driven university education that will empower graduates to seek and discover their own path to success. This is reflected in the University’s online courses, which undergo a thorough review process led by faculty and instructional design staff to ensure that the courses are meticulously prepared and delivered with utmost thoughtfulness.
Did You Know?
KSU is the third largest university in the state of Georgia, with 11 colleges on two metro Atlanta campuses.
Liberty University
Bachelor of Science in Political Science (Online)
Liberty University trains effective political leaders through its 100% online B.S. in Political Science, requiring students to complete 120 credit hours. Some of the program’s courses include:
- Introduction to Political Science
- American Political Processes
- International Relations
- American Foreign Policy
LU’s online political science program is eight weeks long with no set log-in times and can be completed in less than four years.
Liberty University is accredited by SACSCOC
What Makes this Program Unique:
- As a Christian university, LU’s political science bachelor program equips students with the skills and knowledge required to serve the public as a Champion for Christ. Graduates are able to apply biblical principles to industry best practices in the fields of politics, governance, and related fields.
- Electronic textbooks are offered to all undergraduates without cost, saving students as much as $2,000 annually in their educational journeys.
- The University’s government courses are taught by seasoned professors with years of experience in the political arena.
Did You Know?
- LU’s tuition rates for online undergraduate and doctoral programs are in the bottom third compared to its major competitors, making the University a leader among the most affordable online Christian colleges.
- Online students can access academic support as well as technical support services, including Career Center, Online Library, Online Writing Center, LU Barnes & Noble Bookstore, and IT Marketplace.
Oregon State University
Bachelor of Arts/Science in Political Science
Oregon State University offers B.A. or B.S. in Political Science through OSU Ecampus. The program requires 180 quarter credits, which is equivalent to 120 semester credits.
Some of the course topics covered in OSU’s political science programs include:
- Constitutional law
- Current issues in rural policies
- American politics and government
- Eastern and Central European politics
- Middle East politics
- Politics and the media
The University has gained Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities’ approval.
What Makes this Program Unique:
- The University’s Accelerated Master’s Platform allows undergraduate political science students to enroll in online graduate-level courses that will be applied to their bachelor’s degree. The credits that the students earned through this platform will be transferred to the Master of Public Policy (MPP) program.
- OSU’s world-class faculty, renowned for their research, expertise, and innovation, are the driving force behind the development of all classes.
Did You Know?
- OSU Ecampus is consistently ranked in the country’s top 10 best providers of online education, according to U.S. News & World Report.
- Online students have access to a variety of essential resources such as library services, free online tutoring, success coaching, and career guidance for a more rewarding and collaborative learning experience.
Pennsylvania State University
Online Bachelor of Arts, Online Bachelor of Science in Political Science
Pennsylvania State University offers two bachelor’s degrees in political science through its Penn State World Campus platform. These programs are:
- Bachelor of Science in Political Science, which combines a practical blend of courses in computer sciences, mathematics, social sciences, and statistics; and
- Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, which focuses on political theory and reasoning necessary to effectively assess domestic and worldwide politics.
Both programs require at least 120 credits for completion. Some of the courses in the programs include:
- International Political Economy
- International Relations Theory
- The Politics of Terrorism
- American Foreign Policy
- Politics and the Media
Penn State is a Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) approved, as recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). It is also an institutional participant in the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements.
What Makes this Program Unique:
The Penn State World Campus Career Services provides resources and tools for students to further their careers. The services include:
- Internships
- A career counselor or coach support
- Graduate school resources
- Occupation and salary information
- Opportunities to network with employers
Did You Know?
Penn State has been providing distance education programs for more than 125 years. In 1998, the University launched World Campus, which has made a high-quality, world-class education more accessible to domestic and international students since then.
Southern New Hampshire University
Bachelor of Arts in Political Science (Online)
Southern New Hampshire University offers Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with 24/7 online access to the classroom. The program requires students to complete 120 credits and includes experiential learning opportunities. Faculty members also have real-world political experiences, ensuring students can learn from those who have been in the field.
SNHU is New England Commission of Higher Education-accredited.
What Makes this Program Unique:
Given New Hampshire’s long-held position as the first-in-the-nation primary, SNHU’s political science program can provide students with a unique perspective of the intricate relationship of the U.S. political system, public perception, and the formulation of government policies.
Did You Know?
- The United States Distance Learning Association awarded SNHU the 21st Century Distance Learning Award for Excellence in Online Technology.
- Google.org has provided the University with a $1 million grant to conduct soft skills assessments of underprivileged youth.
Texas Tech University
Bachelor of Arts in Political Science (Online and Hybrid)
Texas Tech University offers students a completely online program for Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, requiring 120 credit hours for completion. This program, available on the University’s TTU Online platform, is offered by the College of Arts and Sciences.
TTU’s B.A. in Political Science is available at regional site campuses as well. On-site students have the option to take a combination of synchronous, face-to-face, and online courses to complete 36 hours of their requirements.
The University is accredited by the SACSCOC. It has also received approval from the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board to join the NC-SARA.
What Makes this Program Unique:
TTU is dedicated to providing quality support to online and distance-learning students, offering prestigious, affordable, flexible, and attainable educational solutions.
Did You Know?
TTU was ranked as America’s No. 1 Online Learning School (Colleges) by Newsweek in 2022.
The University of Arizona
Bachelor of Arts in Political Science (Online)
The University of Arizona, through its Arizona Online platform, offers a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science for students who are interested in the study of public policy, government, and the political behavior of groups and individuals.
Offered by the University’s College of Social & Behavioral Sciences, the program aims to equip students with analytical abilities and strong, clear communication skills. The courses for this bachelor’s degree program include:
- Experimental Political Science
- Political Sociology
- Politics in the Digital Age
The University is a WASC Senior College and University Commission-approved institution.
What Makes this Program Unique:
- Online students can take advantage of the pay-per-credit pricing plan so that they can learn at their own pace.
- Arizona Online provides “No out-of-state tuition,” which means that the price remains the same wherever the student is located.
Did You Know?
- Students from other Arizona universities or community colleges who want to explore how their coursework will transfer when they enroll in this political science degree online program can get in touch with The University of Arizona Academic Advisors for guidance and verification.
- Some of the notable alumni of the University include David Dewhurst, the 41st lieutenant governor of Texas from 2003 to 2015, and Stewart Udall, who served three terms as a congressman from Arizona and served as Secretary of the Interior from 1961 to 1969.
University of Central Florida
Bachelor of Arts in Political Science (Online)
The University of Central Florida offers online Bachelor of Arts in Political Science to students who want to establish a career in politics on local, national, and international levels. Graduates of this College of Sciences program are also presented with a variety of career opportunities in different fields, including:
- Congressional Office Staffer
- Law Enforcement Officer
- Paralegal
- Lobbyist
- Foreign Service Officer
- Educator
This degree program, offered through UCF Online, requires students to complete 120 credit hours. Courses include Public Opinion, Civic Engagement, and Political Parties and Processes.
The University is SACSCOC-accredited. It is approved to participate in the NC-SARA.
What Makes this Program Unique:
- Students in Florida can enjoy around 25% lower price per credit hour compared to students outside of the state.
- Academic advisors provide full support to online students in tailoring their course selections and career goals.
- Students have the opportunity to participate in a limited number of internships, where they can gain practical experience by being assigned to government offices at the local, state, or national level, as well as in campaign headquarters or law offices.
Did You Know?
UCF has more than 25 years of experience in online teaching and learning. Its digital learning team has earned more than 100 awards and collectively published more than 130 peer-reviewed articles on digital education.
University of Illinois at Springfield
Bachelor of Arts in Political Science (Online and Hybrid)
University of Illinois at Springfield (UIS) helps prepare students who are seeking a career in politics through its Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, which is offered 100% online. On-campus students also have the option to combine online and on-campus courses.
The program aims to prepare students with the theoretical understanding and practical experience needed for success, whether their aspirations involve shifting paradigms in local or international politics.
UIS is accredited by the HLC.
What Makes this Program Unique:
- The faculty members teaching the University’s online courses are the same as those who teach its on-campus courses, ensuring that online students receive the same quality education as traditional students.
- The accelerated law school program (UIS + UIC Law Program) allows political science students to reduce the time required to earn their law degree by one year. Instead of the usual four years, qualified students can enroll in the University of Illinois Chicago’s law school after only three years in UIS.
- The state of Illinois has one of the most dynamic political cultures in the U.S., which means that UIS students have plenty of opportunities for internships in non-profit organizations, government offices and campaign headquarters, as well as network with prominent professionals in public service.
Did You Know?
The University is a leader in Model Illinois Government (MIG), a government simulation that provides students the chance to gain first-hand experience of the systems of politics and government in Illinois.
University of Iowa
Online Bachelor of Arts in Political Science
The University of Iowa is offering students to pursue their Bachelor of Arts in Political Science degree wherever they are in the world through its Department of Political Science online program. This B.A. program requires at least 120 semester hours towards graduation, including 36 s.h. of political science coursework.
More specifically, the program requires the following coursework:
- Political Science Introductory Courses, 15 hours
- Additional Political Science Courses, 21 hours
The political science introductory courses include the mandatory Introduction to American Politics and four out of 18 optional courses, including introductions to the following:
- Politics
- Information, Society, and Culture
- Lawyers in the American Political System
- Political Behavior
- Russian Politics
- Asian International Relations
- Asian Politics: China
Online students and on-campus students are held to the same degree and major requirements.
The University of Iowa is HLC-approved.
What Makes this Program Unique:
- Online students learn from the same high-caliber faculty who teach in on-campus classes.
- Academic advising is available through web meetings.
- Students pay the same tuition whether they’re Iowa residents or from out of state.
Did You Know?
- The University is the state of Iowa’s oldest institution of higher education. It was founded in 1847.
- The US News & World Report heralds the University as the No. 1 public university for “writing in the disciplines.”
- Terry Branstad is one of the University’s notable alumni. He was the former governor of Iowa twice and is considered the longest-tenured Governor in the country.
University of Maryland Global Campus
Bachelor of Science in Political Science (Online and Hybrid)
The University of Maryland Global Campus equips students with an understanding of domestic and international politics through its online program, Bachelor of Science in Political Science. All courses are available online, but select hybrid courses are also available.
The BS program requires 120 credit hours, including 30 credits of required major courses such as:
- Introductory to Public Policy and Public Administration
- Comparative Politics and Government
- Law, Morality, and War
- Global Terrorism
- Political Science Capstone
Students can transfer as many as 90 credits in this online degree.
The University is MSCHE-approved. It is also a member of the University System of Maryland (USMD).
What Makes this Program Unique:
UMGC’s B.S. Political Science curriculum is designed with contributions from scholars, employers, and industry experts.
The University makes higher education attainable and affordable through the following:
- Low tuition rates for Maryland residents,
- Discounted tuition for military service members and families
- At least 100 scholarships are available
- Zero cost on textbooks for almost all courses
- Interest-free monthly payment arrangement
Student services are available, including advising by email, chat, and phone, as well as lifetime career services.
Did You Know?
UMGC was founded more than 75 years ago to serve and provide education to working adults. It is the largest public university in the U.S.
University of Massachusetts – Dartmouth
Bachelor of Arts in Political Science (Online)
Through its Bachelor of Arts in Political Science online program, the University of Massachusetts – Dartmouth can help students gain a comprehensive understanding of political structures and procedures within society worldwide.
Students are required to complete 120 credit hours to graduate. The program trains students to formulate and analyze arguments, develop research skills, and access and peruse writings on public affairs, among other valuable skills.
UMass Dartmouth is NECHE-accredited.
What Makes this Program Unique:
- UMass Dartmouth faculty facilitates the online courses to ensure that exceptional teaching and individualized attention are provided.
- The online courses are mostly taught asynchronously, and thus, students have greater flexibility to learn at their own pace within the constraints of defined assignment due dates.
- The program includes a 3-credit internship to be completed by the students, who select their internship location and seek approval from the political science department.
- ·Online students can choose Pre-Law Concentration to prepare them for law school. Coursework includes emphasis on the courts and law in both domestic and international systems.
Did You Know?
UMassD is a military-friendly school recognized for its exemplary approaches to enrolling and supporting students with military backgrounds.
University of Memphis Global
Online Bachelor of Arts in Political Science
The University of Memphis, through UofM Global, offers online B.A. Political Science for students who want the option and chance to complete the courses that best align with their schedules and preferences every semester.
The University’s political science bachelor program requires students to complete at least 120 credit hours. The degree program can be completed 100% online or by incorporating relevant college-level learning from previous educational experiences.
UofM is SACSCOC-approved and participates in NC-SARA.
What Makes this Program Unique:
- The online BA in Political Science is an accredited program crafted by the UofM faculty. Both online students and on-campus students complete the same coursework and earn the same diploma.
- Student support services are available to online students, including a dedicated admissions team, 24/7 online tutoring, and academic support services.
Did You Know?
With more than 20 years of experience in delivering online education, UofM Global offers top-ranked programs in various fields.
University of North Dakota
Bachelor of Arts in Political Science (Online)
The Political Science (BA) degree of the University of North Dakota is offered 100% online, requiring students to complete 120 credits towards graduation. Some of the courses covered include American Government, Global Perspectives, Comparative Politics, Political Behavior, and Introduction to Research Methods.
UND’s online Political Science degree gives students greater flexibility in managing their schedules, as classes are asynchronous. Methods of instruction include:
- Lesson modules
- Virtual libraries
- Online simulations
- Video streams
UND is HLC- accredited.
What Makes this Program Unique:
- Both online and on-campus students learn from the same University professors, take the same courses, and study within the same semester.
- A range of student support services are available to online learners, including unlimited coaching, free online tutoring, full online access to digital resources, and 24/7 technical support.
Did You Know?
UND was founded in 1883, which was six years before North Dakota officially became a state. The University played a role in naming the state when the Dakota territories were divided into two separate states.
University of Wisconsin-Whitewater
Online Bachelor’s in Political Science
With its online Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science in Political Science degrees, the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater not only equips aspiring students for successful careers in the public and private sectors but also prepares them for professional and graduate school.
The program is fully online and asynchronous, which means that students don’t have to come to the campus. Students also have the flexibility to attend school part-time or full-time.
The core program requirements include the following courses:
- American Government and Politics
- Writing in Political Science
- Political Science Research Methods
UW-Whitewater is HLC-accredited.
What Makes this Program Unique:
- Every online student receives the same diploma, indicating their graduation from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater program.
- The university’s commitment to excellence ensures that online students receive a high-quality education that mirrors the experience of traditional on-campus programs.
Did You Know?
Individuals who plan to check out the UW-Whitewater campus can participate in walking tours, whether self-guided, with a Warhawk, or in a group. Virtual campus tours are also available.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the differences between a Bachelor of Science in Political Science and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science?
The Bachelor of Science (BS) and the Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Political Science programs differ in their focus and approach. A BS program often emphasizes a more quantitative and research-oriented approach, offering courses in data analysis, statistics, and scientific methodologies.
On the other hand, a BA program tends to provide a broader perspective, incorporating a mix of social sciences and humanities courses. This allows students to explore political theories, international relations, and historical contexts.
While both degrees offer a strong foundation in political science, a BS may be suitable for those interested in data-driven analysis while a BA offers a well-rounded understanding of political systems and their socio-cultural influences.
Is a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science necessary for those who aspire to run for government positions?
While a bachelor’s degree in Political Science is not an absolute requirement to run for a government position, it can offer significant advantages and enhance your qualifications as a candidate.
A Political Science degree provides valuable insights into government structures, policies, international relations, and political strategies, which can better equip you to understand and address complex issues.
It cultivates critical thinking, communication, and analytical skills essential for effective leadership and decision-making. While practical experience and other qualifications also play a role, a Political Science degree can contribute to a more well-rounded and informed approach to running for a government position.
Summary Points
- Political Science is the study of political systems, governance, policies, and the behavior of groups and individuals within societies. Students in a bachelor’s degree program explore topics such as government structures, international relations, public policy, political theory, comparative politics, public administration, political economy, research methods, policy analysis, law, political behavior, and public opinion.
- When choosing a bachelor in political science degree program, it is necessary to consider these top three features: Comprehensive coursework covering international relations, governance, and political systems; Well-experienced and knowledgeable professors in the fields of politics and governance; and Availability of opportunities for relevant internships, hands-on training, and research.
- Despite the name of the program, political science graduates are not limited to careers in politics. These graduates possess versatile skills that enable them to pursue rewarding careers across various sectors like law, public administration, international relations, journalism, business, and advocacy. Their strong analytical, communication and critical thinking abilities make them valuable assets in roles that involve research, policy analysis, strategic planning, and decision-making, contributing to a wide range of industries and making a positive impact on society.
Additional Information:
