Best Online Political Science Programs
Political scientists are experts in government. See how you can become an expert in an online political science bachelor’s program.
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2022If you want to get into politics or work in policy advocacy, a political science bachelor’s program is a good place to start.
Political scientists study, research, analyze, and predict government policies and trends impacting everything from education to the justice system.
An online political science program can offer the flexibility you need to advance your career without disrupting your life. The options on this list combine affordability with excellent student outcomes to ensure they don’t compromise on quality.
Best Online Bachelor’s in Political Science Programs
How We Rank Schools
University of Central Florida
- Orlando, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Based in Orlando, UCF offers an online bachelor's in political science that does not have any on-campus requirements. The program emphasizes critical thinking and analytical skills alongside foundational political science knowledge.
Students can choose between three concentrations: American politics and policy, international relations-comparative politics, and pre-law. Courses include the American presidency, politics of the European Union, and contemporary democratic theory. All students must complete 120 credits before graduating with their BA. Resources for online students include a writing center, online access to the UCF library, and academic coaching.
UCF is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
96%
$ 4,478
92%
$19,810
- Acceptance Rate
- 45%
- Students Enrolled
- 71,881
- Institution Type
- Public
Florida International University
- Miami, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
FIU offers a flexible online bachelor's in political science that students can complete without ever visiting campus in Miami. FIU's online platform allows students to collaborate with peers, watch interactive lectures, and communicate regularly with instructors. Distance learners also gain access to a personal academic coach who offers support throughout their studies.
Online learners tackle core coursework in American politics, political theory, and comparative politics. Students must complete 120 credits before graduation, with 39 dedicated to political science classes.
First-year applicants must complete an online application and submit official high school transcripts and standardized test scores. As of fall 2021, in-state learners pay $229 per credit, while out-of-state tuition costs $346 per credit.
FIU is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
86%
$ 4,721
91%
$16,529
- Acceptance Rate
- 58%
- Students Enrolled
- 58,836
- Institution Type
- Public
Pennsylvania State University-World Campus
- University Park, PA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Penn State World Campus offers a flexible online political science degree that helps students develop critical thinking, analytical, research, and writing skills. The program delivers all coursework asynchronously, allowing online students to learn through a mix of self-study and peer-to-peer interactions.
Required political science classes include introduction to American national government, contemporary political ideologies, and introduction to political research. Degree-seekers also select nine credits of supplementary courses in areas like history, economics, and sociology. Online learners gain access to an online research library, career counseling, and 24/7 technical support.
Applicants must hold a high school or GED diploma. Prospective students must complete an online application and submit official high school and college transcripts. As of fall 2021, both resident and nonresident online learners pay $590-$632 per credit.
Penn State World Campus is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
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- Acceptance Rate
- N/A
- Students Enrolled
- 0
- Institution Type
- Public
Rutgers University-New Brunswick
- New Brunswick, NJ
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Rutgers's online bachelor's in political science covers various practical and philosophical problems associated with governance and political activities. Along with gaining extensive political science knowledge, learners develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills.
The program's curriculum covers three general areas: American politics and institutions, international politics, and theoretical approaches to politics. Core courses include the nature of politics, introduction to international relations, and comparative politics.
First-year applicants must hold a high school or GED diploma. They should submit an essay; academic transcripts; and a current resume outlining extracurricular activities, community service, and past employment.
Rutgers is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
33%
$12,230
93%
$29,012
- Acceptance Rate
- 67%
- Students Enrolled
- 50,411
- Institution Type
- Public
Arizona State University Online
- Scottsdale, AZ
- N/A
- Campus + Online
ASU offers a 120-credit bachelor's in political science that full-time learners can complete in about four years. Online students complete most coursework asynchronously and gain access to 24/7 counseling, time management coaching, and various student wellness support services.
Students can choose between earning a bachelor of arts or bachelor of science. BS degree-seekers tackle a curriculum emphasizing science and statistics, while the BA track includes a foreign language component. Core courses cover political ideologies, empirical political inquiry, and American government and politics.
First-year applicants must be in the top 25% of their graduating high school class. Along with a completed application, prospective students must also submit ACT or SAT scores.
ASU is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
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- Acceptance Rate
- N/A
- Students Enrolled
- 0
- Institution Type
- Public
Oregon State University
- Corvallis, OR
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Oregon State offers a flexible online bachelor's in political science. The program offers four different start dates each year. Students complete most coursework asynchronously and gain access to resources like success coaching, free online tutoring, and digital library services.
Learning from experienced instructors, students take core courses in areas like environmental policy and politics. All learners must complete a minimum of 180 quarter credits. Additional courses cover constitutional law, current issues in rural policies, and global food politics and policy.
Online learners pay $331 per credit no matter where they live, as of fall 2021. Oregon State takes a holistic approach to the admissions process and considers grades, the rigor of coursework, and personal attributes. The university does not require standardized test scores for admission.
Oregon State is regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
52%
$ 9,846
85%
$29,445
- Acceptance Rate
- 82%
- Students Enrolled
- 32,312
- Institution Type
- Public
Texas Tech University
- Lubbock, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
TTU's online bachelor's in political science program covers a variety of topics, including foreign and domestic policy, political theory, and Texas politics.
The 120-credit curriculum includes courses like comparative politics, introduction to political analysis, and environmental politics and policy. Additionally, students can take a career-focused class that explores the ways working professionals can use a political science degree.
Out-of-state online learners pay a tuition rate almost identical to Texas residents. TTU offers various support to active-duty military and veterans and was the first school in Texas to receive the Purple Heart University designation.
TTU is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
54%
$ 8,683
87%
$20,953
- Acceptance Rate
- 70%
- Students Enrolled
- 40,322
- Institution Type
- Public
University of Illinois Springfield
- Springfield, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
UIS offers an online bachelor's in political science that does not include on-campus requirements. The program includes both synchronous and asynchronous elements. Additionally, online learners can enroll in an integrated political science BA/MA program.
Through live lectures and collaborative, discussion-based work, students tackle courses like introduction to the American political system, introduction to political philosophy, and empirical political analysis. Before graduation, all political science majors complete an internship in the field.
Prospective students must complete an online application and submit official academic transcripts. UIS encourages applicants to submit a 500-750-word personal essay laying out their professional goals and academic interests.
UIS is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
98%
$ 9,592
74%
$16,120
- Acceptance Rate
- 77%
- Students Enrolled
- 4,146
- Institution Type
- Public
University of North Alabama
- Florence, AL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
UNA offers an online bachelor's in political science that prepares graduates for careers or graduate school. The program provides flexibility for working professionals by delivering all coursework asynchronously.
The 36-credit major curriculum includes coursework in United States government and politics, political science scope and research, and public policy and administration. Concentration options include international relations, political theory, and American politics.
To receive unconditional admission, prospective students must have a minimum 2.5 high school GPA and an ACT score above 18 or an SAT score above 960. Applicants must submit official transcripts from high school and all prior colleges.
UNA is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Universities Commission on Colleges.
80%
$ 9,600
77%
$19,200
- Acceptance Rate
- 83%
- Students Enrolled
- 8,086
- Institution Type
- Public
Liberty University
- Lynchburg, VA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Distance learners attending Liberty can earn an online bachelor's in political science. This 120-credit degree takes full-time learners about 3.5 years to complete. Coursework is available entirely online, and faculty deliver courses through eight-week terms.
Students complete classes like American foreign policy and international relations, building their critical thinking and communication skills. Graduates can go on to pursue careers like policy analyst, legislative assistant, and campaign manager.
To qualify for admission, applicants must have a minimum 2.0 GPA. They must also submit an application fee, academic transcripts, and proof of English proficiency. Students can transfer in up to 90 credits toward their degree.
Liberty is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Universities Commission on Colleges.
93%
$14,791
81%
$14,791
- Acceptance Rate
- 50%
- Students Enrolled
- 93,349
- Institution Type
- Private
Why You Should Get a Political Science Degree
- Career Versatility: Political science degree-holders can pursue jobs in a variety of fields, including journalism, government contracting, high school and college education, and market research analysis.
- Government Analysis: These degrees are a great fit for history buffs and those who like to analyze and predict government and economic trends using historical data.
- Career Growth: Bachelor’s degree-holders have a higher salary potential and ability to grow in their roles and promotions.
Benefits of Getting a Political Science Bachelor’s Online
- According to BestColleges’ 2025 Online Education Trends Report, almost all (95%) of the online psychology, education, and social sciences students and graduates who were surveyed say they think earning an online degree has had or will have a positive return on investment (ROI).
- Over half (52%) of these respondents say their online classes included assignments they could relate to their current jobs.
- Most (75%) say an online learning environment is equal to or better than learning on campus.
How to Choose the Best Online Political Science Program for You
Before you apply, there are some things you should consider: cost, program length, what you need to qualify, and what careers are available after you graduate.
How Much Does an Online Political Science Bachelor’s Degree Cost?
Social Science Bachelor’s, 2020
Online
Avg. Tuition & Fees: $13,416
Avg. Net Price: $8,171
On-Campus
Avg. Tuition & Fees: $20,240
Avg. Net Price: $10,471
Source: NCES PowerStats
Social science includes many academic disciplines, including political science.
The average sticker price for an online social science bachelor’s degree is about $13,400 a year, according to 2020 data from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). That’s almost $7,000 less than the average in-person cost.
However, financial aid can lower the price even further. Students often paid an average of $8,171 for their online social science bachelor’s degree after financial aid.
To see how much you can save for college, fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine your eligibility for grants, scholarships, and student loans.
Find Financial Aid for Your Political Science Program
How Long Does It Take to Get a Bachelor’s in Political Science?
Typical # of Credits
120 Credits
Typical Program Length
4 Years
Typically, it’ll take about four years to complete an online bachelor’s in political science.
However, as an online student, you’re given a few options to match your schedule and goals. If you went to college before but haven’t earned your degree, you may qualify for degree completion programs. They typically allow you to transfer up to 90 credits from your prior experience to help you graduate sooner.
Accelerated online political science degrees allow you to get your degree in 2-3 years by condensing classes and coursework into shorter, more intense periods. If you’re considering an accelerated degree, you may need to work part time or take a break from your job to focus on the fast-paced coursework.
Political Science Degree Application Requirements
Application: See if your prospective school accepts the Common App, which allows you to apply to multiple schools at once. If not, check the school’s site for its application.- Test Scores: See if the school you are applying to requires any standardized test scores like the ACT or SAT to be sent in with your application.
- Letters of Recommendation: Schools may require letters of recommendation from mentors, teachers, or peers from work or school to vouch for your work ethic, personality, and skills.
- Official Transcripts: Make sure to send high school transcripts and any previous college transcripts with the college credits you’ve earned so far.
- Essays: Typically, colleges will require 500- to 800-word essays showcasing your qualities and life experiences.
What Can You Do With a Political Science Degree?
Some of the most common jobs in political science require at least a master’s degree, especially if you decide to become a political scientist responsible for studying, analyzing, and theorizing about political systems.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), political scientists make a median salary of $139,380 per year, as of May 2024. However, employment in the field is projected to decline 3% from 2024-2034.
Political science is a versatile degree. Other job options include postsecondary instructor at a college or university, journalist reporting on politics, or a market research analyst, all of which make a median salary above $60,000 a year, according to the BLS.
| Job | Median Annual Salary(May 2024) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Political Scientists | $139,380 | Study, analyze, theorize, and test political systems and theories. They often work as consultants. |
| High School Teachers | $64,580 | Responsible for teaching high school students and preparing them for college or the job market |
| Market Research Analysts | $76,950 | Study consumer behavior, business conditions, and other market factors to plan business decisions for goods and services |
| News Analysts, Reporters, and Journalists | $60,280 | Responsible for reporting news and investigating current events for the public |
| Public Relations Specialist | $69,780 | Promote brands or companies’ public images |
Learn More About Political Science Jobs
Is an Online Bachelor’s in Political Science Worth It?
That depends on your goals. If you want to pursue a career in or related to government, it may be well worth it. If you’re debating between an online and in-person education, most students surveyed in our 2025 Online Education Trends Report say online college was the same, if not better than, learning on campus.
According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), the average starting salary for 2023 political science majors after graduation was $54,238. According to BestColleges’ report, students also reported that their online social science degree has or will have a positive ROI.
Education Beyond a Bachelor’s in Political Science
You may decide to continue your education after earning your bachelor’s degree. You have plenty of options to choose from. Maybe you will continue on and pursue a master’s in political science.
Your bachelor’s in political science could also set you on the pathway to other master’s degrees — for example, a master of business administration (MBA) degree — or, eventually, doctoral degree options in political science, education, and public administration.
These degrees can prepare you to be an expert in various specialties, whether it be environmental, U.S, global, or educational politics. They can also lead to leadership positions at government agencies, nonprofit organizations, universities, and government contract companies.
If you want to pursue a legal or political scientist role, you will need at least a master’s degree. Higher degrees also open up opportunities for career growth and salary potential.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Bachelor’s in Political Science
That depends on your goals. If you’re interested in government or entering into a career with expertise in political systems, then it can be worth it. Political science is a versatile degree that translates well to other jobs, master’s and doctoral degrees, and leadership positions.
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