An online bachelor’s degree in political science involves the study of current events, election results, and the effect of public policy on human communities. 2020, with its unique political and social environment, introduced new challenges and opportunities for those interested in studying political science!
In order to adequately address the contemporary political issues of the next decade, students of political science will learn to think critically, develop strong research and analysis skills, and establish their ability to work independently. They will study subjects such as U.S. Foreign Policy and Political Theory. Most importantly, they will gain the ability to maneuver through complex political atmospheres, positively impacting their communities and country.
Graduates with a bachelor’s degree in political science will be able to successfully pursue any number of careers, such as a political scientist, attorney, paralegal, journalist, senator, lobbyist, congressman/woman, and more! According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics entry-level positions for graduates of a bachelor’s in political science are expected to grow 6% by 2029.
The political-science curriculum is perfect for students who have a desire to understand the proceedings of national and international government systems as well as make an impact in our current political atmosphere. It prepares students to gain employment in the political sectors throughout the United States or enter into a prominent master’s degree program.
quick links
- Top 20 Online Schools for Bachelor of Political Science Degree Programs
- ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY
- COLUMBIA COLLEGE
- INDIANA UNIVERSITY EAST
- SOUTHERN NEW HAMPSHIRE UNIVERSITY
- UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS DARTMOUTH
- FORT HAYS STATE UNIVERSITY
- OREGON STATE UNIVERSITY
- NORTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY
- UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND UNIVERSITY COLLEGE
- PENN STATE WORLD CAMPUS
- TROY UNIVERSITY
- CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY
- UNIVERSITY OF MAINE
- AMERICAN MILITARY UNIVERSITY
- WASHINGTON STATE UNIVERSITY
- THOMAS EDISON STATE UNIVERSITY
- UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL FLORIDA
- WALDEN UNIVERSITY
- UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA AT OMAHA
- NORTHERN ILLINOIS UNIVERSITY
- Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Schools
For more information: Top 20 Online Schools for Master’s in Political Science
For related degree info: Top 20 Online Schools for Master’s of Public Administration Degree Programs and our choices for the 5 Best Online Schools for Doctor in Public Administration (DPA) Degree Programs
Top 20 Online Schools for Bachelor of Political Science Degree Programs
METHODOLOGY: In compiling this list, OnlineSchoolsCenter.com decided not to list the schools in any specific order, but instead chose to highlight the very Best Online Bachelor of Political Science Degree Programs randomly. These schools offer exceptional programs that rate themselves ahead of other online programs within the field of Political Science, showing strong qualifications based on:
- Degree of thoroughness and complexity of the Political Science curriculum,
- Knowledge and skills needed to lead in a democratic system of government,
- Combining political theory with real-life world issues,
- 100% online availability,
- Sufficient Financial Aid availability, Student Support, and easy Learning Management System, as well as, Networking Opportunities,
- Proper Accreditation,
- Provides an education that gives students more than just classroom experience,
- Promotes diverse viewpoints in the field of Political Science.
For a more in-depth understanding, please see our Methodology page.
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ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY
Online BA in Political Science
Program Standouts:
Arizona State University is one of the most prominent providers of distance education in the entire country, and its online Bachelor of Arts in Political Science is certainly no exception. Students in this program deeply delve into a rigorous and challenging lineup of courses that reflect contemporary geopolitics, economics, and current events.
Campus Location: Tempe, AZ
Accreditation: North Central Association of Schools and Colleges
Types of Aid: Federal and private loans; federal, state, and institutional grants; student employment programs; institutional and external scholarship opportunities.
Acceptance Rate: 84.1%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application and official high school transcripts and must meet at least one of the following: top 25% in high school graduating class, 3.0 cumulative GPA, or exemplary SAT/ACT scores.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Government and Politics
- Comparative Government
- Political Ideologies
Degree Outcomes:
At this online school, students develop strong skills and knowledge to become leaders “within a democratic system of government and in the rapid globalization of political institutions.” Graduates have the expertise to land positions of employment in major government agencies and make a positive effect on political atmospheres.
LEARN MORE INFORMATION ABOUT ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY’S BACHELOR OF ARTS (BA) IN POLITICAL SCIENCE
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COLUMBIA COLLEGE
Online Bachelor of Political Science
Program Standouts:
Columbia College delivers one of the most highly-respected online Bachelor’s in Political Science degree programs in the United States, and it is the most integrative and diverse major in the school. The punctilious curriculum explores areas of government, journalism, education, and business, elections, lobbies, foreign policy, and more!
Campus Location: Columbia, MO
Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Types of Aid: Federal and private loans; federal and institutional grants; student employment opportunities; institutional and external scholarship opportunities; military benefits.
Acceptance Rate: 91.6%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a complete online application, the nonrefundable application fee, official high school transcripts, and military transcripts, as well as financial aid information.
Sampling of Coursework:
- State and Local Government
- Environmental Politics
- Philosophy of Law
Degree Outcomes:
Upon exiting this enlightened undergraduate poli-sci program, many students go on to complete master’s degrees at other distinguished schools — Columbia maintains a 95% placement rate for those who apply for graduate or law school. Many alumni land positions in law, public administration, public relations, and political campaign management, as well as in other exciting areas.
LEARN MORE INFORMATION ABOUT COLUMBIA COLLEGE’S BACHELOR’S IN POLITICAL SCIENCE DEGREE PROGRAM
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INDIANA UNIVERSITY EAST
Online BS in Political Science
Program Standouts:
Indiana University East offers an impressive online Bachelors in Political Science degree completion program that is designed for individuals with an associate’s degree or applicable transfer credits. Students work closely with faculty and advisors to create a personalized curriculum that matches each student’s particular goals.
Campus Location: Richmond, IN
Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Types of Aid: Federal and state grants; federal and private loans; institutional and external scholarship opportunities; student employment programs; military benefits.
Acceptance Rate: 69.7%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, and official high school transcripts and undergraduate transfer credits representing a GPA of 2.0 or higher.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Political Theory
- American Politics
- Comparative Politics/International Relations
Degree Outcomes:
Upon exiting this online bachelor of science program, graduates will have expanded upon previously earned credits, and can proudly sport a diploma from a respected university. Having worked closely with instructors, advisors, and a dedicated Career Services Department, alumni enter into the job market with an arsenal of skills at their disposal.
LEARN MORE INFORMATION ABOUT INDIANA UNIVERSITY EAST’S BS IN POLITICAL SCIENCE DEGREE
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SOUTHERN NEW HAMPSHIRE UNIVERSITY
Online BA in Political Science
Program Standouts:
Online students at Southern New Hampshire University, yet another of the most well-respected purveyors of distance education in the country, are given a unique pathway into the field of Political Science, particularly in the Campaign Leadership concentration. Students learn practical approaches to politics and deeply study the inner workings of international and global politics.
Campus Location: Hooksett, NH
Accreditation: New England Association of Schools and Colleges
Types of Aid: Federal, state, and institutional grants; federal and private/alternative loans; numerous institutional and external/outside scholarship opportunities.
Acceptance Rate: 78%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, official high school transcripts, and TOEFL scores from students who use English as a second language.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Globalization and World Politics
- Analysis and Research in Political Science
- US Government and Contemporary Issues
Degree Outcomes:
Many students exiting this online bachelor’s program seamlessly enter into one of SNHU’s excellent master’s programs. Other graduates go on to gain employment in positions of advocacy, campaign strategy, and development, government business writing, and public policy and statistical analysis, working in the state, local, and federal government agencies.
LEARN MORE INFORMATION ABOUT SOUTHERN NEW HAMPSHIRE UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE BACHELOR OF ARTS IN POLITICAL SCIENCE DEGREE PROGRAM
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UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS DARTMOUTH
Online BS of Political Science
Program Standouts:
The University of Massachusett’s online school system is decorated with prestigious awards of excellence in academia for its outstanding degree programs. Students in the online Bachelor of Political Science Degree Completion program (the #4 online BA in the country, according to U.S. News and World Report) vastly expand upon previously learned information, and also have the option to concentrate in pre-law!
Campus Location: Dartmouth, MA
Accreditation: New England Association of Schools and Colleges
Types of Aid: Federal and private/alternative loans; federal, state, and institutional grants; institutional, departmental, and private scholarship opportunities; various payment plans; student employment programs.
Acceptance Rate 84.3%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, and official undergraduate transcripts representing 24 transferable credits.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Public Policy in America
- Civil Liberties and Rights
- Women and Public Policy
Degree Outcomes:
This online program significantly develops students’ critical thinking and communication skills and gives them a vast understanding of the field. Graduates are able to formulate and analyze arguments, write persuasively, and develop strong arguments in the public sector, and demonstrate many other well-sharpened skills as well.
LEARN MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS DARTMOUTH’S ONLINE BACHELOR OF SCIENCE (BS) IN POLITICAL SCIENCE DEGREE PROGRAM
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FORT HAYS STATE UNIVERSITY
Online Bachelor of Political Science: Pre-Law and Public Administration
Program Standouts:
Fort Hays State University’s Department of Political Science offers a highly affordable online Bachelors of Political Science with two distinctive concentration options. The Pre-Law Concentration prepares students for the challenges of law school, and the Public Administration Concentration prepares students to translate politics into policy!
Campus Location: Hays, KS
Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Types of Aid: Federal and state grants; federal and alternative loans; institutional, state, distance education, and external scholarship opportunities.
Acceptance Rate: 88.6%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, official transcripts from all previously attended academic institutions, and SAT/ACT scores (except for those who are over the age of 21). Applicants must also contact the FHSU Financial Aid Department.
Program Options:
- Pre-Law
- Public Administration
Degree Outcomes:
Upon completion of their programs, graduates enter into either prominent master’s degree programs or become public servants who are ready to manage nearly every aspect of public service at the federal, state, and local levels. Some positions of employment that alumni now occupy include city manager, attorney, legislative staff, and coordinator of veterans service.
LEARN MORE INFORMATION ABOUT FORT HAYS STATE UNIVERSITY’S VIRTUAL COLLEGE DEGREE PROGRAM IN POLITICAL SCIENCE
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OREGON STATE UNIVERSITY
Online BA/BS in Political Science
Program Standouts:
As it is shrewdly worded on the Oregon State University website, the political science programs “investigate the stories behind news headlines and teach students skills to make up their own minds about the politics of laws that affect everyday issues.” The diverse array of coursework within the B.S./B.A. poli-sci programs explores many areas, particularly in international politics.
Campus Location: Corvallis, OR
Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Types of Aid: Federal, state, and institutional grants; federal and alternative loans; institutional and external scholarship opportunities.
Acceptance Rate: 78.8%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, official high school transcripts representing an exemplary GPA throughout a strong curriculum, SAT/ACT scores, and an Insight Resume outlining notable personal accomplishments and qualities.
Sampling of Coursework:
- International Relations
- Gender and Law
- Eastern and Central European Politics
Degree Outcomes:
Having learned from an online university that has been included in the U.S. News & World Report’s list of the Top 10 Best Online Bachelor’s Programs two years in a row, students exit this undergraduate program with a highly respected diploma and a plethora of options within the job market. Throughout their degree, students receive massive amounts of administrative support and are welcome to utilize the career services department as alumni.
LEARN MORE INFORMATION ABOUT OREGON STATE UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE POLITICAL SCIENCE DEGREE PROGRAM
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NORTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY
Online Bachelor of Political Science
Program Standouts:
Northeastern University has been educating students with academic excellence since 1898, and today offers some of the most distinguished online degree programs available. The Bachelor in Political Science program gives the online student the freedom and privilege of tailoring the curriculum to meet their own career goals, thus ensuring their personal futures.
Campus Location: Boston, MA
Accreditation: New England Association of Colleges and Schools
Types of Aid: Federal and supplemental loans; federal and state grants; institutional and external scholarship opportunities; employer tuition reimbursement; various payment plans; military benefits.
Acceptance Rate: 27.4%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, official high school/GED/undergraduate transcripts, and proof of English language proficiency from students who use English as a second language.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Ethical Issues in Communication
- Negotiation
- International Relations
Degree Outcomes:
Graduating from Northeastern University not only gives alumni prestige when applying to master’s programs and positions of employment, it finely sharpens the skills needed to make an impact on national and international government systems. Students will have a strong understanding of political networks and will have the prowess to forge new paths in the name of democracy.
LEARN MORE INFORMATION ABOUT NORTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE BACHELOR’S IN POLITICAL SCIENCE DEGREE PROGRAM
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UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND UNIVERSITY COLLEGE
Online Bachelor of Political Science
Program Standouts:
The University of Maryland University College online Bachelor of Political Science is designed with input from employers, industry experts, and scholars, delivering a finely tuned curriculum that examines many different angles of the discipline. Coursework explores demanding areas such as global terrorism, defense policy and arms control, and foreign policy.
Campus Location: Upper Marlboro, MD
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Types of Aid: Federal and alternative loans; federal grants; institutional and external scholarship opportunities; employer tuition assistance; various interest-free payment plans; military and veterans’ benefits.
Acceptance Rate: 45.5%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, and official high school representing an exemplary GPA or GED transcripts.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Comparative Politics and Government
- Global Terrorism
- American Foreign Relations
Degree Outcomes:
Upon completion of this challenging program, graduates will be able to analyze and participate in the creation of public policy; understand government at all levels; use effective writing, research, analysis, advocacy, and coalition-building skills; and interpret complex political problems and develop innovative solutions in both the public and private sectors.
LEARN MORE INFORMATION ABOUT UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND UNIVERSITY COLLEGE’S ONLINE POLITICAL SCIENCE MAJOR DEGREE PROGRAM
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PENN STATE WORLD CAMPUS
Online BA/BS in Political Science
Program Standouts:
Penn State World Campus is perhaps the most renowned online school in the country. It is repeatedly listed on indexes of the finest distance education programs and offers political science students four unique options in the discipline. This notable university provides students with thorough curricula that will transform and enhance their professional skills.
Campus Location: University Park, PA
Accreditation: Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools
Types of Aid: Federal and state grants; federal and alternative loans; institutional and external scholarship opportunities; various payment plans; third-party payments; employer tuition reimbursement and deferment; tuition assistance; military benefits.
Acceptance Rate: 54%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, official high school/GED/undergraduate transcripts, and TOEFL scores from students who use English as a second language.
Program Options:
- B.A./B.S. Political Science
- International Politics
- Law and Society
Degree Outcomes:
Upon completion of one of Penn State’s superb online programs, students will have the understanding and networking connections to enter into fast-paced political environments. With an educational and experiential background from PSWC, students will have a great advantage within the job market.
LEARN MORE INFORMATION ABOUT PENN STATE WORLD CAMPUS’ BACHELOR OF POLITICAL SCIENCE DEGREE PROGRAM
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TROY UNIVERSITY
Online Bachelor of Political Science
Program Standouts:
Troy University provides exceedingly professional bachelor’s programs in political science in which students can focus on two distinctive concentration options. The administration gives students special and individualized, one-on-one attention throughout all their academic needs.
Campus Location: Troy, AL
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Types of Aid: Federal and state grants; federal and private/alternative loans; institutional, external, and online scholarship opportunities; student employment programs; military and veterans’ benefits.
Acceptance Rate: 88.1%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, official high school transcripts representing an exemplary GPA or GED transcripts, SAT/ACT scores, and relevant financial aid information.
Program Options:
- American Politics and Public Administration
- International Politics
Degree Outcomes:
Earning an online Bachelor of Political Science degree in either concentration from Troy prepares students for fulfilling careers in public service, government, teaching, international relations, and any field that requires relational thinking and an understanding of citizens’ rights and duties. Many students continue their educations in master’s and law school programs.
LEARN MORE INFORMATION ABOUT TROY UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE BACHELOR OF POLITICAL SCIENCE DEGREE PROGRAM
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CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY
Online Bachelor of Political Science
Program Standouts:
The Central Michigan University online Bachelor of Political Science concentrations are designed to immerse students in challenging coursework that carefully outlines the complex processes of American and international governments. This online school gives students many exciting outlets through which to study a highly involved discipline.
Campus Location: Mt. Pleasant, MI
Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Types of Aid: Federal and state grants; federal and private loans; numerous institutional and external scholarship opportunities; various payment plans; military and veterans’ benefits.
Acceptance Rate: 67.8%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, and official high school/GED/undergraduate transcripts.
Program Options:
- American National Political Institutions and Processes
- American State and Local Government, Public Administration, and Policy
- International Relations
- Comparative Politics
- Political Theory
Degree Outcomes:
Depending on their area of focus, CMU graduates go on to accomplish outstanding career goals in national and international government agencies. The skill and understanding of political systems displayed by these individuals make them assets in dozens of environments throughout the country.
LEARN MORE INFORMATION ABOUT CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY’S BACHELOR OF POLITICAL SCIENCE DEGREE PROGRAM
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UNIVERSITY OF MAINE
Online BA in Political Science
Program Standouts:
The online Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Political Science offered by the University of Maine explores many diverse perspectives of the field. The curriculum demands students to critically examine the fundamental theories, principles, institutions, and practices of politics, thus creating their own strong interpretations of these systems.
Campus Location: Orono, ME
Accreditation: New England Association of Schools and Colleges
Types of Aid: Federal, state, and institutional grants; federal and alternative loans; institutional and external scholarship opportunities; student employment programs.
Acceptance Rate: 92.3%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online UM application or the Common App, the nonrefundable application fee, official high school or GED transcripts as well as any undergraduate transcripts, a personal essay, and one school recommendation.
Sampling of Coursework:
- American Politics
- Comparative Politics
- International Relations
Degree Outcomes:
Online students in this school learn from faculty members whose expertise is recognized internationally, and who exhibit colorful experiential knowledge. UM provides internship opportunities in government institutions, as well as other channels for students to learn outside of the online classroom and further sharpen necessary skills.
LEARN MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF MAINE’S ONLINE BACHELOR OF ARTS (BA) IN POLITICAL SCIENCE DEGREE PROGRAM
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AMERICAN MILITARY UNIVERSITY
Online Bachelor of Political Science
Program Standouts:
American Military University requires its students to deeply question political systems in order to unearth their own personal political understanding. The curriculum includes charged current issues of ethnicity and citizenship as well as the efficacy of a two-party system versus a multi-party system.
Campus Location: Charles Town, WV
Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Types of Aid: Federal and institutional grants; federal and private loans; institutional and external scholarship opportunities; employer vouchers; various payment plans; numerous military and veterans’ benefits.
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application and official high school/undergraduate/military transcripts.
Program Options:
- Comparative Politics
- International Relations
- Political Theory
- General Political Science
Degree Outcomes:
This degree allows students to work in elected positions or careers in government and military services. The diverse coursework prepares students for the vicissitudes of demanding employment positions that require dedication and devoted public service.
LEARN MORE INFORMATION ABOUT AMERICAN MILITARY UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE BACHELOR OF POLITICAL SCIENCE DEGREE PROGRAM
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WASHINGTON STATE UNIVERSITY
Online Bachelor of Social Science: Political Science
Program Standouts:
Washington State University-Global Campus offers online students a Bachelor’s in Social Sciences with a focus in Political Science that involves the study of multiple academic pathways at once, giving a unique lens into the profession. Students have a multitude of resources to support their education, including 24/7 tech support, free online tutoring/writing lab, and access to global connections.
Campus Location: Pullman, WA
Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Types of Aid: Federal, state, and institutional grants; federal and private/alternative loans; institutional and external scholarship opportunities; student employment programs; military and veterans’ benefits.
Acceptance Rate: 73.1%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, official high school transcripts, and SAT/ACT scores.
Program Options:
- Political Science
- Communication
- Comparative Ethnic Studies
Degree Outcomes:
Upon exiting this program, students will have a globally respected diploma and access to a worldwide alumni network. Graduates have many different career opportunities including law enforcement, education, government, and public service. Having concentrated in multiple areas, students have a diverse background to fall back on.
LEARN MORE INFORMATION ABOUT WASHINGTON STATE UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE BACHELOR OF SOCIAL SCIENCES DEGREE PROGRAM
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THOMAS EDISON STATE UNIVERSITY
Online Bachelor of International Studies
Program Standouts:
Thomas Edison State University’s online Bachelor of International Studies is a magnificent degree equivalent to a political science degree, and it allows students to study a broader array of coursework as it applies to global political systems. The curriculum includes social, political, cultural, and economic disciplines.
Campus Location: Trenton, NJ
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Types of Aid: Federal and private loans; federal and state grants; institutional and external scholarship opportunities.
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, official high school/GED/undergraduate transcripts, and proof of any and all licensure or certification.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Civil and Global Learning
- Understanding the Physical and Natural World
- Oral Communication
Degree Outcomes:
Upon exiting this respected online program from TESU, graduates demonstrate a strong understanding of global and regional studies, as well as of the connections between global culture and politics. This degree gives students expertise in communication and diplomacy over sensitive global issues.
LEARN MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THOMAS EDISON STATE UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE BACHELOR OF INTERNATIONAL STUDIES DEGREE PROGRAM
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UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL FLORIDA
Online BA in Political Science
Program Standouts:
Students in this online school have the attention of an extremely dedicated administration that constantly seeks to improve individual experiences. In close consultation with faculty and advisors, students plan out a detailed academic schedule that gives them the most opportunities available.
Campus Location: Orlando, FL
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Types of Aid: Federal, state, and institutional grants; federal and private loans; tuition waivers; institutional and external scholarship opportunities; student employment programs.
Acceptance Rate: 49.9%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, official high school transcripts representing an exemplary GPA, and SAT/ACT scores.
Program Options:
- American Politics and Policy
- International Relations-Comparative Politics
- Prelaw
Degree Outcomes:
This program gives students a strong background for careers in foreign and domestic public service and in the private sector, as well as for admission into prominent law school and other master’s programs. Depending on the track a student chooses to follow, they will be well-prepared to enter into impressive positions and institutions.
LEARN MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL FLORIDA’S ONLINE BA IN POLITICAL SCIENCE DEGREE PROGRAM
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WALDEN UNIVERSITY
Online Bachelor of Political Science and Public Administration
Program Standouts:
As it is well-stated on their website, the Bachelor in Political Science and Public Administration prepares students for public and private service, “empowering them to navigate among private, government, and nonprofit sectors to positively change organizations, communities, and the world.” Coursework utilizes state-of-the-art interactive technologies to deliver a unique blend of theory and application.
Campus Location: Minneapolis, MN
Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Types of Aid: Federal and state grants; federal and private/alternative loans; institutional and external scholarship opportunities; various payment plans; tuition assistance programs; military and veterans’ benefits.
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, official high school transcripts, and a current resume representing relevant work experience.
Program Options:
- General Program
- Global Issues and Social Justice
- Law and Legal Studies
- Managing in the Public Environment
- Public Service Through Civic Engagement
- Social Entrepreneurship
Degree Outcomes:
Having learned from one of the most formidable distance education universities in the country, students graduate from this program with avenues into private businesses, law schools, international and nonprofit organizations, journalism, and electoral politics. Walden also offers an Accelerate Into Master’s program through which students can seamlessly enter into a graduate program.
LEARN MORE INFORMATION ABOUT WALDEN UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE BACHELOR OF SCIENCE (BS) IN POLITICAL SCIENCE AND PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION DEGREE PROGRAM
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UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA AT OMAHA
Online Bachelor of Multidisciplinary Studies (BMS): Political Science
Program Standouts:
The University of Nebraska at Omaha offers an online Political Science Bachelor of General Studies in which students receive an education that is “highly valued in today’s workplace for development decision-making skills.” The curriculum emphasizes a multidisciplinary study in liberal arts education.
Campus Location: Omaha, NE
Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Types of Aid: Federal, state, and institutional grants; federal and private/alternative loans; institutional, departmental, and outside scholarship opportunities; military and veterans’ benefits.
Acceptance Rate: 86.5%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, official high school/GED/undergraduate transcripts. Applicants must be at least 21 years of age or active duty military personnel.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Civic Leadership
- Latino American Politics
- Interest Groups
Degree Outcomes:
Graduates from this online program go on to careers in government, law enforcement, politics, nonprofit administration, public relations, business, and many others. Graduates demonstrate strong skills in communication, critical thinking, and innovation, making them much-needed assets in every industry.
LEARN MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA AT OMAHA’S ONLINE BACHELOR OF MULTIDISCIPLINARY STUDIES (BMS) DEGREE WITH AN AREA OF CONCENTRATION IN POLITICAL SCIENCE
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NORTHERN ILLINOIS UNIVERSITY
Online Bachelor of Political Science
Program Standouts:
Northern Illinois University offers an online degree completion Bachelor in Political Science: Politics, and provides distance education students all of the same benefits, resources, and coursework available to on-campus students. Individuals have the opportunity to enroll in a wide variety of classes within this program and may even create their own specializations.
Campus Location: DeKalb, IL
Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Types of Aid: Federal and private/alternative loans; federal, state, and institutional grants; institutional and outside scholarship opportunities; tuition waivers; veterans’ benefits.
Acceptance Rate: 53.3%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed application, official high school transcripts representing a GPA of at least 2.5, official transfer transcripts from an accredited undergraduate institution representing a GPA of at least, and SAT/ACT scores.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Parties and Elections
- American Political Thought I and II
- Religion and the Constitution
Degree Outcomes:
Within this program, undergraduate students learn valuable skills that are highly sought after by employers, such as teamwork, critical thinking, and analysis, effective communication, ability to plan/organize/prioritize work. Graduates have a strong understanding of political frameworks and are an asset to many different areas.
LEARN MORE INFORMATION ABOUT NORTHERN ILLINOIS UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE BACHELOR OF POLITICAL SCIENCE DEGREE PROGRAM
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What can I expect from an online Bachelor’s degree program in Political Science?
Whether you are interested in pursuing a position as the Governor of your state or would like to work your way up to that by first becoming the Mayor of your town, an online degree in political science is an excellent beginning point. Most entry-level jobs within this field will require a minimum bachelor’s degree at the very least.
You can expect an exciting curriculum in local and state politics, learning about government branches and public policy in American and worldwide politics. Internship possibilities are often a requirement in law firms or within other interest groups, and you may need to consider earning a master’s degree as well, in the field of political science, if you have intentions of running for office or would like to obtain a management position.
Through the field of political science, you can combine your research and analysis skills with your desire to solve real-world problems in the political arena. Many choose to concentrate on a specific aspect, such as economics or foreign affairs.
How much money will I make as a Political Scientist?
The BLS stated in May 2019 that the average median wage of a political scientist was $122,220 annually, with the highest 10% earning upwards of $164,210 per year, with experience. They also report slower than the average job growth rate of 6% between 2019 and 2029. Today, political scientists are needed to research and focus on various causes, such as healthcare, immigration, or the effects of global warming.
Must I belong to a specific political party to excel as a Political Scientist?
Every day is a new day in the world of politics, and things can change dramatically from day to day. As a political scientist, regardless of your own political views, you can elect to perform studies either geared toward your political party or not. However, as most would agree, the decisions about the betterment of society as we know it today does not have to be affiliated with a particular party… it just needs to be right for the country!
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“In a time of domestic crisis, men of goodwill and generosity should be able to unite regardless of party or politics.” -John F. Kennedy, 35th U.S. President