30 Best Political Science Online Programs (Bachelor’s)

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In this article, we profile the top 30 online political science degree programs at the bachelor’s level.

An online political science degree program is designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge necessary for work in:

Featured Programs

  • political organizations
  • governmental institutions
  • non-profit agencies

Accredited online political science programs incorporate theory and application. They provide students with the training needed to succeed in facing real-world challenges and problems. Most online bachelor’s degree options have the same standards and curriculum found at traditional on-campus programs. The only difference? You won’t be expected to travel to class or attend on-campus seminars.

30 Political Science Degree Online Programs Methodology

We examined 98 regionally and nationally ranked institutions that offer an online bachelor’s degree program in:

  • political science
  • politics
  • social sciences
  • a related discipline

From our original pool of schools, we reviewed institutional rankings from major publications like U.S. News & World Report. We then selected the most affordable institutions, based on the most recent undergraduate tuition rates published by NCES College Navigator. Schools are listed according to raw affordability.

Below is our list of the 30 best online bachelor’s degree programs in political science.

Top 30 Political Science Degree Online Programs (Bachelor's)

#30 – Liberty University

Online Bachelor’s in Political Science

Lynchburg, Virginia

Website

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100% online bachelor’s in political science degree – Liberty University!

Undergraduate Tuition: $21,587

Liberty University offers a political science degree online for individuals who want to complete a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. The program is 100% online with no campus visit requirements. It’s an excellent choice for working adults or those who prefer the flexibility of an online degree. Liberty University is a private Christian institution. It integrates Christian teachings into its coursework. Featured courses include:

  • American foreign policy
  • American political processes
  • international relations
  • introduction to political science

Students can transfer up to 75% of the 120 required credits. Liberty University ranks #389 in best national universities by U.S. News & World Report.

#29 – Keiser University

Online Bachelor’s in Political Science

Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Website

Keiser University - Top 30 Political Science Degree Online Programs (Bachelor’s)
Strong liberal arts focus – Keiser University’s online political science degree program.

Undergraduate Tuition: $21,008

Keiser University offers an online bachelor’s in political science with a deep liberal arts focus. It prepares students for graduate studies in a wide variety of disciplines. Students are prepared for entry-level work in numerous career paths, including public policy, government, and more. The program can be completed entirely online. It’s a popular option for working adults or place-bound individuals with no brick-and-mortar instititions in the area. There are a variety of prerequisite courses that must be completed before entering the program, including:

  • English composition II
  • college-level mathematics
  • political science
  • statistics, and more

Keiser ranks #284 in best national universities by U.S. News & World Report.

#28 – Pennsylvania State University World Campus

Online Bachelor’s in Political Science

University Park, Pennsylvania

Website

Pennsylvania State University World Campus - Top 30 Political Science Degree Online Programs (Bachelor’s)
Accredited and ranked! Penn State’s bachelor’s in political science online program.

Undergraduate Tuition: $13,988

Penn State University World Campus offers an accredited bachelor’s in political science online. It’s designed for working adults and active-duty military or veterans. The program focuses on political theory and political analysis. It has the option to focus on specialty areas of the discipline. Graduates are prepared for careers in:

  • business
  • government
  • journalism
  • public administration
  • public policy, and more

Many students also use the degree as preparation for further graduate studies. Courses may include:

  • American politics
  • comparative politics
  • international relations
  • political theory and methodology

Penn State World Campus is ranked #10 in best online bachelor’s degrees by U.S. News & World Report.

#27 – Central Michigan University

Online Bachelor’s in Political Science

Mount Pleasant, Michigan

Website

Central Michigan University - Top 30 Political Science Degree Online Programs (Bachelor’s)
Accredited and affordable! Central Michigan University – a top choice for a bachelor’s in political science online degree.

Undergraduate Tuition: $12,960

Central Michigan University’s online bachelor’s in political science requires 120 credits. It focuses on preparing graduates for numerous career paths in fields like:

  • education
  • government
  • journalism
  • public policy, and more

It is also excellent preparation for graduate study. The program offers a generous credit transfer policy. It gives students the option to transfer in the majority of credits from other institutions upon approval. Required classes may include:

  • great political thinkers
  • introduction to American government and politics
  • introduction to empirical methods of political research

The program is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Central Michigan University ranks #249 in national universities by U.S. News & World Report.

#26 – Northern Illinois University

Online Bachelor’s in Political Science

DeKalb, Illinois

Website

Northern Illinois University - Top 30 Political Science Degree Online Programs (Bachelor’s)
NIU is a ranked and affordable institution for online political science programs.

Undergraduate Tuition: $12,352

Northern Illinois University offers a bachelor’s in political science online. It’s designed for students who have completed an AA or AS degree at a community college, or for those who have completed their general education requirements. Once admitted to the program, students can finish the rest of the degree online without the need to come to campus. It’s administered by the Department of Political Science in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. Students receive a well-rounded education that prepares them for careers in:

  • law
  • journalism
  • public administration, and more

Many students also use the degree as preparation for further studies in master’s or doctoral programs. NIU is ranked #298 in best national universities by U.S. News & World Report.

#25 – Washington State University

Online Bachelor’s in Political Science

Pullman, Washington

Website

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Washington State University offers a ranked political science bachelor’s degree.

Undergraduate Tuition: $12,170

Washington State University offers a political science degree online for undergraduates. The program is offered through the university’s College of Arts and Sciences. It can be completed entirely online without any campus visits or residency requirements. As such, the program is a popular choice among working adults and people who prefer the flexibility of online learning. Students have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience through internships via the Thomas S. Foley Institute of Public Policy and Public Service. However, it is not a requirement to graduate. WSU is ranked in several U.S. News & World Report categories, including #87 in top public schools and #93 in best value schools.

#24 – University of Louisville

Online Bachelor’s in Political Science

Louisville, Kentucky

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Affordable tuition! University of Louisville’s bachelor’s in political science online program.

Undergraduate Tuition: $12,162

The University of Louisville offers an online bachelor’s in political science through the institution’s College of Arts and Sciences. It’s designed for working adults seeking to start or advance a career in political science. Students will learn from the same distinguished faculty who teach on-campus courses. They will graduate with the same diploma. Core classes may include:

  •  contemporary political research
  • international politics
  • introduction to American government and politics
  • introduction to comparative politics

Students can transfer up to 60 credits from a community college or 90 credits from a four-year institution. Louisville University is ranked #176 in best national universities by U.S News & World Report.

#23 – Oregon State University

Online Bachelor’s in Political Science

Corvallis, Oregon

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OSU offers online political science degrees that are ranked and affordable.

Undergraduate Tuition: $11,858

Oregon State University offers a political science degree online through its renowned College of Liberal Arts. Students can choose to earn a bachelor of arts or a bachelor of science. Both  can be completed entirely online. It has a generous transfer-credit policy. Students can transfer in credits from community colleges or four-year institutions upon approval. The program provides in-depth coverage of political science topics. Particular attention is paid to environmental politics and policy. Course topics include:

  • American government and politics,
  • current issues in rural policies
  • eastern and central European politics, and
  • more

Oregon State is ranked fourth in best online bachelor’s programs by U.S. News & World Report.

#22 – Texas Tech University

Online Bachelor’s in Political Science

Lubbock, Texas

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Texas Tech University offers a bachelor’s in political science online that’s accredited, ranked, and cheap.

Undergraduate Tuition: $11,600

Texas Tech University offers a bachelor’s in political science online through its Department of Political Science. The program is structured for individuals who need flexibility in their learning. This may be due to outside commitments and other factors that make on-campus learning not a viable option. Students can complete the entire degree at Texas Tech. Or they can take advantage of the generous credit-transfer policy. This allows students to get credit for previous courses taken at approved community colleges or four-year institutions. Students take courses such as:

  • careers in politics and policy
  • conflicts in the Middle East
  • introduction to political analysis
  • transnational issues

Texas Tech is ranked #164 in best online bachelor’s programs by U.S. News & World Report.

#21 – Wilmington University

Online Bachelor’s in Law, Policy, and Political Science

New Castle, Delaware

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Study law and policy in Wilmington University’s online bachelor’s in political science program.

Undergraduate Tuition: $11,480

Similar to a political science degree online, Wilmington University offers an undergraduate degree in law, policy, and political science. It prepares graduates for further studies at the graduate level or careers in:

  • public policy
  • journalism
  • government, and more

Students can also take advantage of the express admission program leading to matriculation at Widener University Law School. Students can choose from three concentrations:

  • legal studies
  • government and public policy
  • political science

Geared towards the working adult, the program can be completed entirely online without travel requirements or campus visits. Wilmington University is ranked by U.S. News & World Report.

#20 – Arizona State University

Online Bachelor’s in Political Science

Tempe, Arizona

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Transfer credits accepted! ASU’s online bachelor’s in political science program.

Undergraduate Tuition: $11,338

Arizona State University offers an online bachelor’s in political science that focuses on the development of critical skills like:

  • effective communication
  • political analysis
  • public policy, and more

The program leads to a wide variety of careers. Graduates have gone on to successful occupations in the public, private, and non-profit sectors. The degree also serves as excellent preparation for graduate school studies. Courses include:

  • American government and politics
  • comparative government
  • empirical political inquiry
  • political ideologies

Students with 12 or more transferable credits must apply for admission as transfer students. Those with fewer than 12 credits apply for freshman admission. Arizona State is ranked sixth in best online bachelor’s programs by U.S. News & World Report.

#19 – Old Dominion University

Online Bachelor’s in Political Science

Norfolk, Virginia

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Ranked and accredited! Old Dominion is a top choice for online political science programs.

Undergraduate Tuition: $10,800

Old Dominion University’s offers the bachelor’s in political science online. It focuses on the role of various levels of government and politics, both nationally and abroad. Students learn how to critically analyze political institutions and theories. They will also study the impacts that these theories and institutions have had on the world and on individuals. Students can choose from a B.A. or a B.S. The Bachelor of Arts includes a more intensive foreign language component. The Bachelor of Science integrates more quantitative and data analysis content. The program is housed in the Department of Political Science and Geography. Old Dominion University is ranked #258 in best national universities by U.S. News & World Report.

#18 – University of North Alabama

Online Bachelor’s in Political Science

Florence, Alabama

Website

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Various concentrations offered! The University of North Alabama is a top school for online bachelor’s in political science programs.

Undergraduate Tuition: $10,620

The University of North Alabama offers an online bachelor’s in political science through its Department of Politics, Justice, and Law. The program allows students to concentrate on various subfields of political science, such as:

  • American politics
  • comparative governments
  • international relations
  • political theory
  • public administration
  • public policy

The degree can be completed in four years, culminating in a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in political science. Students can also take advantage of the transfer credit policy. It allows them to earn credit towards the degree using previous courses taken at UNA or other approved institutions. North Alabama is ranked #40 in best Southern universities by U.S. News & World Report.

#17 – Eastern Kentucky University

Online Bachelor’s in Political Science

Richmond, Kentucky

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EKU offers six start dates for its online bachelor’s in political science program.

Undergraduate Tuition: $9,876

Eastern Kentucky University offers a political science degree online for individuals seeking a career in fields such as:

  • government
  • politics
  • journalism
  • public policy and administration, and more
  • The online program is also excellent preparation for many different types of graduate school programs. The EKU program has six different start dates per year. It features eight-week accelerated courses so students do not have to wait to begin their studies. They can take fewer courses at a time without taking longer to finish. Students can begin the program as new college students or can transfer in credits from previous institutions upon approval. Eastern Kentucky is ranked #51 in best Southern universities by U.S. News & World Report.

#16 – Southern New Hampshire University

Online Bachelor’s in Political Science

Manchester, New Hampshire

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Top rankings and affordability! SNHU’s online bachelor’s in political science.

Undergraduate Tuition: $9,650

Southern New Hampshire University offers a bachelor’s in political science online. It can be completed without any campus visits or other travel requirements. All courses are online. Graduates can transfer up to 90 of the 120 required credits from other programs and institutions upon approval. Graduates have gone on to careers in:

  • politics
  • public administration
  • public policy
  • all levels of government
  • journalism, and more

Featured courses include:

  • American state and local government
  • analysis and research in political science
  • globalization in world politics
  • public administration

Southern New Hampshire is ranked first on the list of most innovative schools by U.S. News & World Report.

#15 – University of Iowa

Online Bachelor’s in Political Science

Iowa City, Iowa

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The University of Iowa offers both a B.A. and B.S. degree in political science.

Undergraduate Tuition: $9,606

The University of Iowa offers an online bachelor’s in political science with the option to earn a B.A. or B.S. The Bachelor of Science provides more quantitative research skills. The Bachelor of Arts focuses more on political systems. The degree program is housed in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. It can be completed entirely online with no campus visit requirements. In addition to financial aid for those who qualify, the institution offers scholarship funds specifically for political science undergraduates. The University of Iowa is ranked in several U.S. News & World Report categories, including #88 in national universities and #34 in top public schools.

#14 – Columbia College

Online Bachelor’s in Political Science

Osage Beach, Missouri

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Ranked by U.S. News! Columbia College offers an accredited online bachelor’s in political science.

Undergraduate Tuition: $8,112

Columbia College offers a bachelor’s in political science online. It prepares graduates for entry-level careers in a variety of fields and occupations, such as:

  • public policy
  • public administration
  • political analysis
  • journalism
  • government

Graduates also go on to further their education through graduate studies and law school. The 120-credit program can be completed entirely online at Columbia College. Students can transfer up to 90 credits towards the degree. Admission requirements vary as students apply as either a transfer student or a freshman. Columbia College ranks in various U.S. New & World Report categories, such as #119 in best regional Midwestern universities and #153 in social mobility.

#13 – University of Wisconsin

Online Bachelor’s in Political Science

Whitewater, Wisconsin

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Ranked and accredited! The University of Wisconsin’s online political science degrees.

Undergraduate Tuition: $7,735

The University of Wisconsin at Whitewater offers an online bachelor’s in political science. It can be completed completely online or through a mixture of on-campus and distance courses. Students can choose from specific tracks in political science including:

  • American politics
  • comparative politics
  • international politics
  • political theory
  • public policy

Graduates are well prepared for new or advancing careers in the public, private, and non-profit sectors of the economy. They will also be prepared for graduate or professional school. The program is designed for new college students or those with previous coursework completed at other institutions. The University of Wisconsin at Whitewater is ranked #58 in best universities in the Midwest by U.S. News & World Report.

#12 – Indiana University

Online Bachelor’s in Political Science

Richmond, Indiana

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Fast-track, online political science degree! Indiana University.

Undergraduate Tuition: $7,715

Students searching for a political science degree online may find the program at Indiana University to be a strong option. Tis is due to its:

  • convenient delivery
  • respected faculty
  • track record of success

Online students take the same courses as on-campus students and learn from the same professors. Online students are awarded the same degree with no indication that the degree was earned through online instruction. Core classes may include:

  • American politics
  • comparative politics and international relations
  • political theory

Graduates have gone on to successful careers as:

  • government executives
  • legal assistants
  • journalists
  • political scientists, and more

Indiana University is ranked #76 in best national universities by U.S. News & World Report.

#11 – Arkansas Tech University

Online Bachelor’s in Political Science

Russellville, Arkansas

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Arkansas Tech’s online bachelor’s in political science degree programs are designed for working and busy students!

Undergraduate Tuition: $7,668

Arkansas Tech University offers a political science degree online. It’s for students looking for convenient online delivery and rigorous coursework in an interdisciplinary political science program. It covers topics across areas like:

  • geography
  • history
  • psychology
  • sociology, and more

Students are prepared for a variety of careers in the public and private sectors. Moreover, the program is a recommended option for pre-law students intending to apply to law school. Financial aid, payment plans, and graduate assistantships are available to students who qualify. Arkansas Tech is ranked #80 in best Southern universities and #35 in top public schools by U.S. News & World Report.

#10 – University of Maryland Global Campus

Online Bachelor’s in Political Science

Adelphi, Maryland

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UMGC offers top, affordable online bachelor’s in political science programs.

Undergraduate Tuition: $7,560

The University of Maryland Global Campus offers a bachelor’s in political science online that features diverse coursework in:

  • political analysis
  • theory
  • praxis

The program develops adept, politically-minded graduates. They will be ready to use their communication skills and knowledge to strengthen the organizations they join. Graduates have gone on to successful careers in both the public and private sectors across fields like:

  • journalism
  • public administration
  • education
  • non-profit, and more

Students can transfer up to 90 credits of the required 120. Featured classes include:

  • American government
  • comparative politics and government
  • introduction to political science and theory

Maryland Global is ranked #136 in best regional universities in the North by U.S. News & World Report.

#9 – American Military University

Online Bachelor’s in Political Science

Charles Town, West Virginia

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American Military University’s online bachelor’s in political science prepares students for entry-level careers in politics and government.

Undergraduate Tuition: $7,360

American Military University offers an online bachelor’s in political science. It focuses on practical skills needed to move into a successful political science career in a variety of fields. Students take courses in political theory and analysis, and they are able to choose a professional area of interest. At the end of the program, students have a complete occupational portfolio related to their area of interest. This is designed to be used in finding employment. Courses include:

  • American government
  • comparative political systems
  • political parties and interest groups

Students can transfer up to 90 of the 120 required credits from other institutions. Students must meet application requirements for either freshmen or transfer students, depending on their academic experience.

#8 – Arkansas State University

Online Bachelor’s in Political Science

Jonesboro, Arkansas

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Arkansas State University offers affordable political science online degrees for working adults.

Undergraduate Tuition: $7,315

Arkansas State University’s political science degree is delivered entirely online with no campus visit requirements. It’s geared toward working adults. Many students use the program as preparation for graduate studies. Graduates who intend to apply to the Arkansas State online master’s degree in public policy can apply nine credits from their bachelor’s in political science. Graduates who enter the workplace often go on to careers in:

  • political campaigning
  • public relations
  • public policy
  • education
  • journalism

The program requires 120 total credits with a total of 30 that must be completed at Arkansas State. Arkansas State is ranked #298 in best national universities by U.S. News & World Report.

#7 – University of Alaska

Online Bachelor’s in Political Science

Fairbanks, Alaska

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Study political analysis in the University of Alaska’s online bachelor’s in political science program.

Undergraduate Tuition: $7,176

The University of Alaska offers a bachelor’s in political science online. It features immersive course content that helps critical thinking and political analysis. Many of the courses are writing-intensive. They help students strengthen the research and academic writing skills that are highly valued by employers. Graduates who enter the workforce qualify for a wide variety of occupations in the fields of:

  • public administration
  • public policy
  • education
  • journalism
  • private business

The degree is also excellent preparation for graduate and professional school. The University of Alaska at Fairbanks is ranked #298 in best national universities by U.S. News & World Report.

#6 – Southern Utah University

Online Bachelor’s in Political Science

Cedar City, Utah

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Southern Utah University offers a three-year online bachelor’s in political science program.

Undergraduate Tuition: $6,770

Southern Utah University offers the online bachelor’s in political science. It’s an excellent option for working adults who need flexibility. The career-based coursework helps prepare them for post-graduation life, whether that’s entering the workforce or attending graduate or professional school. The Southern Utah program is 120 credits, which is the standard for bachelor’s degrees. Unlike many programs of its kind, students can graduate in as few as three years. Graduates go on to careers in:

  • teaching
  • public management
  • law
  • foreign service
  • political analysis, among others

U.S. News & World Report ranks Southern Utah #62 in best regional universities in the West and #34 in best value schools.

#5 – Florida International University

Online Bachelor’s in Political Science

Miami, Florida

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FIU offers a bachelor’s in political science online program for those interested in international affairs and public policy.

Undergraduate Tuition: $6,565

Florida International University offers a bachelor’s in political science online. It’s for students interested in:

  • public policy
  • international affairs
  • political theory

The program readies students for:

  • numerous graduate programs
  • careers in government
  • jobs in the private sector

The coursework is flexible. It allows students to choose between a specific concentration in political science and a more general curriculum. 120 credits are required for the Bachelor of Arts, including 39 credits of political science major courses. Classes include:

  • introduction to comparative politics
  • introduction to international relations
  • introduction to political theory

Florida International University has been ranked #117 in best value schools and #95 in top public schools by U.S. News & World Report.

#4 – University of Central Florida

Online Bachelor’s in Political Science

Orlando, Florida

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Ranked by U.S. News! UCF offers a highly affordable bachelor’s in political science online program.

Undergraduate Tuition: $6,368

The University of Central Florida offers an online bachelor’s in political science. It includes flexible course delivery and rigorous content taught by renowned faculty. Students engage deeply with the coursework and with each other. The courses and interactions increase critical thinking and communication. Graduates often move into such positions as:

  • congressional staffers
  • educators
  • paralegals
  • journalists
  • lobbyists

In addition to coursework, students receive career services and academic advising from student service professionals. The University of Central Florida is ranked by U.S. News & World Report:

  • #160 in best national universities
  • #114 in best value schools
  • #16 in most innovative schools.

#3 – Fort Hays State University

Online Bachelor’s in Political Science

Hays, Kansas

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Fort Hays State University an affordable online bachelor’s in political science.

Undergraduate Tuition: $5,430

Fort Hays State University offers a highly ranked political science degree online. It features flexible course options and a challenging curriculum designed for working adults. Fort Hays’ program can be completed entirely online. It’s taught by the same faculty who teach the on-campus program. Upon graduation, the transcript is no different than those of on-campus students. Students can take all courses from Fort Hays, or they may take advantage of the generous transfer credit policy. Graduates move on to careers as:

  • federal employees
  • attorneys
  • political staffers, and more

Fort Hays State ranks #112 in best Midwestern universities, according to U.S. News & World Report.

#2 – University of North Georgia

Online Bachelor’s in Political Science

Dahlonega, Georgia

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The University of North Georgia’s online bachelor’s in political science is top-ranked and affordable.

Undergraduate Tuition: $4,976

The University of North Georgia offers a bachelor’s in political science online.  It’s designed for:

  • working adults
  • traditional-aged students
  • place-bound learners, and more

Students learn how laws and politics interact with various organizations and the body politic. Students exit the program well versed in:

  • political analysis
  • critical thinking
  • professional writing

The program is administered by The UNG Department of Political Science and International Affairs. Students can earn up to nine credits towards the degree from internships. However, this is not a requirement for those unable to participate. North Georgia ranks #36 in best Southern Universities by U.S. News & World Report.

#1 – The University of Texas

Online Bachelor’s in Political Science

Odessa, Texas

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#1 most affordable online bachelor’s in political science programs – UT Permian Basin.

Undergraduate Tuition: $4,837

The political science degree online at the University of Texas Permian Basin was designed to meet the career needs of many individuals. It is an excellent foundation for law school. Students learn the in-depth processes of all levels of American government as well as international politics and political theory. There are many rewarding career paths that graduates can move into, such as:

  • legislative assistant
  • market research analyst
  • policy analyst, and  more

The 120-credit program can be completed entirely online. Courses include:

  • American West
  • Latin American politics
  • presidential politics
  • public policy

UT Permian Basin is ranked #68 in best regional universities in the West by U.S. News & World Report.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What can you do with an online bachelor’s in political science degree?

An online bachelor’s in political science teaches several skills that are employers highly valued.  Moreover, because politics is so intertwined with society, there are several career opportunities that graduates can choose from upon finishing their degree.

Campaign Manager: These professionals do a bit of everything, from marketing to managing public relations and organizing events. They serve as the point person for a political campaign and as a trusted advisor for the candidate they are supporting. Project management and political analysis skills are key.

Foreign Service Officer: FSOs work for the U.S. Department of State as diplomats. They typically specialize in a certain area of expertise, such as:

  • diplomacy
  • economics
  • political affairs

The position requires keen strategy and excellent communication to promote goodwill among nations while pushing forward the agenda of the United States. They work in U.S. embassies around the globe.

Government Analyst: Analysts perform quantitative tasks to measure the effectiveness of government programs. They may work at any level of government, from local to federal. Individuals desiring this career path should pursue a Bachelor of Science in political science rather than a Bachelor of Arts.

Journalist: Journalists inform the public about current events. They must possess strong writing and political analysis skills. A political science degree is an excellent preparation for this career path.

What professional associations can I join while enrolled in a political science degree online program?

American Association for Public Opinion Research: The AAPOR focuses on engaging in and supporting public opinion research as a means to create policy and strengthen democracy. Welcome to join are Individuals from:

  • academia
  • media
  • non-profit agencies
  • government
  • private industry

In addition to its advocacy efforts, the association publishes multiple journals for internal and external stakeholders. It also provides professional development for its members. There are seven chapters throughout the United States.

American Political Science Association: The American Political Science Association was founded in 1903. It’s considered the leading professional organization dedicated to political science. It has over 11,000 members in 100 countries, making it a very influential and well-established organization. The APSA unites political scientists across a wide spectrum of fields. It provides networking, education, advocacy, and research for its individual members and institutions. The leadership is housed in Washington, D.C. It consists of three senior directors and an executive director.

International Political Science Association: The IPSA was founded in Paris in 1949. It exists to support the development of the political science discipline around the globe. It creates networks of engagement that push the discipline forward. There are over 58 entities affiliated with the IPSA, which publishes five respected journals.

What is the job outlook for individuals with an online bachelor’s in political science degree?

The sheer variety of potential career paths provided by a bachelor’s in political science means the job outlook varies widely. According to Bureau of Labor Statistics data, the job growth for political scientists is expected to increase six percent from 2019-2029. This is compared to the four percent job growth average for all other occupations tracked by the BLS. The expected growth is well above average but not as robust as that of some other occupations.

Demand is expected to be driven by an increased need for political analysis from federal employees. For context, about half of all political scientists work for the federal government. In addition, educational institutions, non-governmental entities, and special interest groups will continue to hire political scientists to engage in research and analysis.

Other career paths open to political science degree holders are not expected to fare as well. Journalism careers are expected to increase three-point-seven percent from 2019-2029. This is less than the average growth rate of all other occupations. With the increase in digital channels and free news, journalistic organizations are facing shrinking advertising and hiring budgets as they try to adapt to the changing landscape. The key takeaway is to research specific careers when looking at growth rates, due to the disparate numbers.

What is my earning potential with an online bachelor’s in political science degree?

Political science degree holders can expect a wide range of pay, depending on the specific career path they enter. Statistics clearly show that those with bachelor’s degrees earn far more than those without. This holds true when it comes to political science degrees. The average occupational wage for all jobs tracked by the Bureau of Labor Statistics is $41,950. Most career paths chosen by political science majors earn far more. This means it’s a wise choice in terms of monetary return on investment.

For example, the average pay for political scientists is $125,350 per year – approximately three times the average pay for all other occupations. Other occupational tracks for political science degree holders also pay well above the national average. Journalists earn between $53,410 and $76,400, depending on the medium. Policy research analysts earn about $65,000. CIA intelligence officers earn nearly $90,000 per year. This far exceeds most other occupations that require some form of postsecondary education.

Individuals living in dense urban areas should expect to earn far more and have better job prospects. But it should be noted that the cost of living is higher. The majority of jobs are available in Virginia, due to the high employment levels by the federal government. Other states that employ political scientists include:

  • Washington state
  • California
  • Texas.

What coursework will I take while earning a bachelor’s in political science online degree?

A bachelor’s degree in political science consists of 120 credits, including general education courses that cover the liberal arts as well as courses specific to the political science major. While every program is different, we cover below the most common political science courses in an undergraduate degree.

American Government: The course covers the history and structure of the American government, including:

  • the Constitution
  • the electoral process
  • the branches of government.

American Foreign Policy: This course covers the various philosophies in American foreign policy. It covers the processes and procedures followed by various stakeholders, including:

  • the President
  • Congress
  • the State Department.

Comparative Government: Class content covers the various governmental functions and theories in modern society, both domestically and abroad.

Introduction to Political Theory: This course introduces students to the major political thinkers during periods such as:

  • the enlightenment
  • industrial revolution
  • modernity
  • present day

Students learn their ideologies as concepts and in practice.

Politics and Media: This course discusses the rich history between the media and the political process. Students study how these two conflate and interact with each other. It looks at how the advent of social media has impacted the political process.

Political Science Research: Students learn both quantitative and qualitative research methodologies common in the social sciences, specifically political science.

Related Resources:

This concludes our article on the top 30 political science degree online programs (bachelor’s).

Brenda Rufener
Author

Julie McCaulley
Expert

Carrie Sealey-Morris
Editor-in-Chief