Best Online Bachelor’s in Political Science
Political Science Degree Online
Online bachelor’s degree programs in political science give you the flexibility to balance studying with professional and personal obligations. You’ll have the chance to build critical thinking, analytical, and writing skills in the context of political systems and behavior.
Graduates who earn a bachelor of political science online can work as policy analysts, political consultants, legislative assistants, and public relations specialists. Those who pursue a master’s degree can become political scientists — a job with a median salary of over $132,350 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
An online bachelor’s in political science degree provides a foundation for many careers, preparing graduates for jobs in policy development, lobbying, journalism, and education. Political science is a rapidly evolving discipline that mirrors the current political climate of the United States. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that between 2022 and 2032, political science positions will increase by 7%.
Choosing an Online Bachelor’s in Political Science Program
Depending on whether your degree is a bachelor of arts or bachelor of science, it’s likely that some of the requirements may be a bit different, both in the general education and major curriculum. Regardless of which degree type you are earning, there will be some similar elements between them.
Students earning a political science degree online can pursue an emphasis or a minor in areas such as history, journalism, communications, and economics. Courses within the major often emphasize areas like international relations, political theory, and the justice system. Graduation requirements will vary from school to school, and may include thesis projects, internships, or capstone courses. The important thing to remember is that these programs are often highly customizable, allowing students to choose courses and academic paths that best suit their needs and career goals.
What Will I Learn in an Online Bachelor’s in Political Science Program?
Online political science programs offer similar courses. The sample curriculum below will give you an idea of what subjects you can expect to encounter while pursuing this degree.
- Political Theory: This course is generally offered at introductory and advanced levels in many online political science programs. It covers the foundations of political theory and offers practical applications in today’s political climate.
- International Relations: Any student of political science will likely encounter at least one course in international relations. Courses in this area can cover many topics, such as how various foreign countries are governed, current U.S. policies regarding foreign relations, and various current issues and conflicts around the world.
- The Legal Process in America: An online political science degree provides the skills for careers in many fields, including law. Many political science programs offer courses in American law and the legal process, detailing topics such as criminal justice and the various other policies and procedures.
Accreditation for Online Bachelor’s in Political Science Degrees
When looking into earning your political science degree online, one of the most important factors to consider is accreditation. When a program is accredited, it means an accrediting organization has verified the academic merit of the program. There are a few different types of accreditation to keep in mind. Colleges and universities are accredited either regionally or nationally. Regional accreditation is the more common and popular of the two types. Some regionally accredited programs will not accept credits from nationally accredited schools.
Some programs may also have program-specific accreditation. While institutional accreditation is adequate for things like federal student aid, program-specific accreditation is another way of ensuring the program you choose meets important field-related standards. Political science programs, for example, may be accredited by the American Political Science Association.
Online Bachelor’s in Political Science Careers
Students in political science programs learn many skills, which prepare them for different careers. The jobs below are just a few examples of what graduates can pursue.
Paralegals and Legal Assistants
| Median Salary: $60,970 | Projected Job Growth: 1% |
With the background in law provided by a political science online degree, graduates can work as paralegals or legal assistants. These professionals work alongside practicing lawyers to help maintain files, do research for cases, and even draft legal documents. They may work in private practices or within larger corporations.
Reporters, Correspondents, and Broadcast News Analysts
| Median Salary: $57,500 | Projected Job Growth: -3% |
An online political science degree provides preparation for careers in communication or journalism, particularly as news analysts or reporters. These professionals often report on politics on the local, national, and international levels.
High School Teachers
| Median Salary: $65,220 | Projected Job Growth: -1% |
Many political science programs cover subjects in history and the social sciences, which help prepare graduates to become secondary school instructors. These teachers generally work in their area of interest, teaching students in grades 9–12. State licensure must be acquired prior to entering this field, which has additional requirements.
Best Online Bachelor’s in Political Science Programs
The school and/or program descriptions below were drafted using natural language generation technology and have been edited for clarity and accuracy. The data is primarily sourced from government databases such as IPEDS – see sources section for more details.
Florida International University
- Miami, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Florida International University is a leader in hybrid education, supporting 81 bachelor's programs, 40 of which run online. The school's bachelor of arts in political science appeals to students seeking to advance in a political science career. Bachelor's graduates can also pivot to a master's program.
The college provides comprehensive support for new students, including financial aid advising. Learners seeking to defray degree costs can meet with a financial aid counselor to discuss funding opportunities and determine their eligibility. The average financial aid package is $9,917, with 94% of enrollees receiving some form of aid.
Florida International University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Admission Rate: 58%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 25-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,721
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $16,529
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $41,500
86%
$ 4,721
91%
$16,529
- Acceptance Rate
- 58%
- Students Enrolled
- 58,836
- Institution Type
- Public
University of Central Florida
- Orlando, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
The University of Central Florida, a leader in hybrid education, offers 94 bachelor's programs, 26 of which run online. Of these online programs, the bachelor's in political science stands out as a wise option for learners seeking flexible, industry-relevant study. Graduates can apply their education to a political science-specific career or a graduate degree.
Enrollees benefit from institutional support throughout their program. Prospective students can connect with financial aid counselors to explore funding opportunities, determine their eligibility, and apply for student loans. The college reports that 94% of all degree-seekers receive some form of financial aid, with the average award totaling $10,192.
University of Central Florida at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Admission Rate: 45%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 31-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,478
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $19,810
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $39,900
9%
$ 4,478
92%
$19,810
- Acceptance Rate
- 45%
- Students Enrolled
- 71,881
- Institution Type
- Public
Southern New Hampshire University
- Manchester, NH
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Southern New Hampshire University, located in Manchester, provides 63 bachelor's programs in dual modalities. Learners pursuing the online bachelor of arts in political science gain the industry-relevant knowledge and skills to succeed in the political science field. The bachelor's program prepares students for careers or graduate studies.
Students can access career services, academic advising, and other institutional resources throughout their program. Eligible enrollees can benefit from financial aid like scholarships, fellowships, and grants.
Southern New Hampshire University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Admission Rate: 94%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 21-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $9,600
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $9,600
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $43,300
96%
$9,600
67%
$9,600
- Acceptance Rate
- 94%
- Students Enrolled
- 134,345
- Institution Type
- Private
Arizona State University Digital Immersion
- Scottsdale, AZ
- 4 year
- Online
- Accredited
Arizona State University Digital Immersion, a leader in distance education, offers 54 online bachelor's programs. The school's bachelor of science in political science equips students with industry-relevant skills and knowledge through foundational and advanced coursework, along with experiential learning opportunities. The program prepares students for their postgraduate path, whether they pursue a political science-specific career or graduate studies.
Degree-seekers can access institutional support throughout the program. Prospective students can meet with financial aid counselors to determine their eligibility for scholarships, grants, and other financial aid.
Arizona State University Digital Immersion at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Admission Rate: 73%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 26-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $10,710
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $10,820
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $42,200
N/A
$10,710
N/A
$10,820
- Acceptance Rate
- 73%
- Students Enrolled
- 53,993
- Institution Type
- Public
Rutgers University-New Brunswick
- New Brunswick, NJ
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Rutgers University-New Brunswick is a leader in hybrid education, supporting 117 bachelor's programs, five of which run online. The school's bachelor's in political science introduces students to foundational skills and knowledge while also fostering general skills such as communication and critical thinking. Graduates can also pivot to a master's program.
The institution connects learners with success-oriented resources, such as career services and academic advising. The college provides numerous funding opportunities to eligible enrollees, including scholarships. Of the school's total undergraduate cohort, 66% receive some form of aid.
Rutgers University-New Brunswick at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Admission Rate: 67%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $12,230
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $29,012
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $48,200
33%
$12,230
93%
$29,012
- Acceptance Rate
- 67%
- Students Enrolled
- 50,411
- Institution Type
- Public
Fort Hays State University
- Hays, KS
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Located in Kansas, Fort Hays State University supports both in-person and remote study opportunities across 52 bachelor's programs. The school's bachelor's in political science appeals to learners seeking to advance in a political science career. Graduates can apply their education to a political science-specific career or a graduate degree.
Students can benefit from institutional resources throughout their program. The college provides numerous funding opportunities to eligible enrollees, including scholarships and fellowships. The average financial aid package totals $4,670, with 96% of all enrollees benefiting from aid.
Fort Hays State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Admission Rate: 91%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,140
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $14,580
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $36,800
57%
$ 4,140
78%
$14,580
- Acceptance Rate
- 91%
- Students Enrolled
- 15,033
- Institution Type
- Public
Keiser University-Ft. Lauderdale
- Fort Lauderdale, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Learners seeking flexible study can choose from in-person and online bachelor's programs at Keiser University-Ft. Lauderdale. The school's bachelor's in political science equips students with industry-relevant skills and knowledge through foundational and advanced coursework. Degree-seekers also complete experiential learning opportunities. Students can apply their degree to a political science-specific career or graduate studies.
Degree-seekers can access institutional support, including academic advising. Eligible students can benefit from financial aid opportunities, such as scholarships, fellowships, and grants.
Keiser University-Ft. Lauderdale at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Admission Rate: 97%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $19,808
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $19,808
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $31,200
48%
$19,808
60%
$19,808
- Acceptance Rate
- 97%
- Students Enrolled
- 20,330
- Institution Type
- Private
Johnson & Wales University-Online
- Providence, RI
- 4 year
- Online
- Accredited
Johnson & Wales University-Online offers 27 bachelor's programs, including a bachelor of science in political science. The program attracts students seeking to advance in a political science career. Graduates can also apply their knowledge and skills to a graduate program in the subject.
The institution connects degree-seekers with success-oriented resources, such as career services and academic advising. Eligible enrollees also gain access to financial aid opportunities, such as scholarships and fellowships.
Johnson & Wales University-Online at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Admission Rate: 36%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 11-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $13,365
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $13,365
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $33,400
N/A
$13,365
50%
$13,365
- Acceptance Rate
- 36%
- Students Enrolled
- 2,152
- Institution Type
- Private
University of Arizona
- Tucson, AZ
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
With a main campus in Tucson, the University of Arizona facilitates in-person and online learning across 146 bachelor's programs. The school's bachelor of arts in political science program attracts students seeking to advance their career. Bachelor's degree-holders can also pursue graduate studies.
The college supports enrollees through institutional resources, including career services and academic advising. Prospective applicants may be eligible for funding options, such as scholarships, fellowships, and grants. Typically, 95% of all enrollees receive some form of aid, with the average financial aid package totaling $12,472.
University of Arizona at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Admission Rate: 85%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $10,990
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $33,273
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $41,800
56%
$10,990
85%
$33,273
- Acceptance Rate
- 85%
- Students Enrolled
- 45,601
- Institution Type
- Public
Kennesaw State University
- Kennesaw, GA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Kennesaw State University boasts a robust hybrid learning environment, supporting both in-person and online education modalities across 89 bachelor's programs. The school's bachelor of science in political science program stands out as a competitive option for students looking to succeed in the political science field. Graduates can pursue careers or postgraduate study relevant to the political science field.
Enrollees benefit from institutional resources throughout their program. Learners can connect with the Office of Financial Aid to explore funding opportunities, such as scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid. Typically, 92% of all enrollees receive some form of aid, with the average aid package totaling $6,110.
Kennesaw State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Admission Rate: 83%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 22-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,450
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $15,704
94%
$ 4,450
80%
$15,704
- Acceptance Rate
- 83%
- Students Enrolled
- 41,181
- Institution Type
- Public
Indiana University-East
- Richmond, IN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Learners looking for flexible study in an online modality can choose from Indiana University-East's bachelor's programs. The bachelor of science in political science supports learners who want to advance in the political science field through flexible study. Graduates can also pivot to a master's program after their undergraduate studies.
Political science students can access institutional support such as academic counseling. Prospective students can also meet with financial aid counselors to determine their eligibility for scholarships, grants, and other financial aid. Incoming enrollees receive an average of $7,658 in financial aid.
Indiana University-East at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Admission Rate: 67%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $7,067
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $19,926
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $32,400
97%
$ 7,067
67%
$19,926
- Acceptance Rate
- 67%
- Students Enrolled
- 3,434
- Institution Type
- Public
National University
- San Diego, CA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Located in San Diego, California, National University supports both in-person and remote study opportunities across 52 bachelor's programs. For learners seeking to advance in the political science field through flexible study, the bachelor of arts in political science program is a wise choice. Students can apply their learnings to a political science-specific career or a graduate degree.
Learners can access career services, academic advising, and other success-geared resources. Prospective students should meet with a financial aid counselor to determine their eligibility for scholarships, grants, and other forms of financial aid.
National University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Admission Rate: 89%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $13,320
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $13,320
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $51,900
44%
$13,320
45%
$13,320
- Acceptance Rate
- 89%
- Students Enrolled
- 18,070
- Institution Type
- Private
Texas Tech University
- Lubbock, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Learners seeking flexible study can choose from in-person and online bachelor's programs at Texas Tech University. The online bachelor of arts in political science program connects students with industry-relevant knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the political science field. Graduates can pursue a political science career or master's degree.
Students seeking career, academic, and financial guidance can benefit from career services, academic advising, and other institutional resources. Eligible enrollees can benefit from financial aid opportunities, such as scholarships, fellowships, and grants. The institution reports that 86% of all degree-seekers receive aid, with an average financial aid package totaling $7,697.
Texas Tech University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Admission Rate: 70%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $8,683
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $20,953
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $46,800
54%
$ 8,683
87%
$20,953
- Acceptance Rate
- 70%
- Students Enrolled
- 40,322
- Institution Type
- Public
University of Maryland Global Campus
- Adelphi, MD
- 4 year
- Online
- Accredited
The University of Maryland Global Campus, based in Adelphi, provides 32 bachelor's programs. The school offers a bachelor's in political science, which features a robust curriculum and equips students with the skills needed to succeed in a political science career. The knowledge and skills gained from these studies can benefit graduates in a relevant career or in further educational pursuits.
Career services and academic advising are just two of the numerous institutional resources centering on student success. Prospective students can connect with financial aid counselors to explore funding opportunities, determine their eligibility, and apply for student loans. The average financial aid award totals $3,784.
University of Maryland Global Campus at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $7,200
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $11,976
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $47,700
92%
$ 7,200
55%
$11,976
- Acceptance Rate
- N/A
- Students Enrolled
- 58,526
- Institution Type
- Public
Oregon State University
- Corvallis, OR
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Oregon State University is a leader in hybrid education, supporting 88 bachelor's degrees, 30 of which run online. The bachelor's in political science program equips enrollees with industry-relevant knowledge and skills needed to succeed in a political science career. The knowledge and skills gained from this program can also benefit students in a master's program.
The college connects learners with institutional resources throughout their studies. Dedicated financial aid counselors can help enrollees understand their available education funding options, including scholarships, grants, and student loans. The college's undergraduate cohort receives an average of $6,110 in financial aid, per person.
Oregon State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Admission Rate: 82%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $9,846
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $29,445
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $42,700
52%
$ 9,846
85%
$29,445
- Acceptance Rate
- 82%
- Students Enrolled
- 32,312
- Institution Type
- Public
American Public University
- Charles Town, WV
- 4 year
- Online
- Accredited
American Public University, boasting a main campus in Charles Town, West Virginia, offers 49 bachelor's programs across in-person and online learning modalities. The school's bachelor of arts in political science stands out as a competitive option for students looking to succeed in the field. After the program, graduates can pursue a political science-specific career or graduate studies.
Enrollees can receive guidance throughout their studies through career services, academic advising, and other resources. The college provides numerous funding opportunities to eligible students, including scholarships and fellowships.
American Public University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, for-profit, four-year
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 23-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $6,840
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $6,840
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $49,200
N/A
$6,840
98%
$6,840
- Acceptance Rate
- N/A
- Students Enrolled
- 50,047
- Institution Type
- Private
Washington State University
- Pullman, WA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Washington State University leads in hybrid education, supporting 151 bachelor's degree programs, 23 of which are available online. The school's bachelor's in political science is an ideal choice for students seeking to advance in a related career. The political science program also prepares learners for further educational pursuits, such as graduate studies.
The college provides comprehensive support for new students, including financial aid advising. Eligible students can benefit from financial aid opportunities including scholarships, fellowships, and grants. Financial aid enables student success, with 92% of all students receiving aid and 59% of all enrollees graduating.
Washington State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Admission Rate: 80%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 16-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $10,202
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $25,145
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $44,700
28%
$10,202
81%
$25,145
- Acceptance Rate
- 80%
- Students Enrolled
- 31,159
- Institution Type
- Public
University of Missouri-St. Louis
- Saint Louis, MO
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
The University of Missouri-St. Louis boasts a robust hybrid learning environment, supporting both in-person and online education modalities across 47 bachelor's programs. For those interested in the political science field, the school's bachelor of arts in political science is a wise choice. Graduates can apply their knowledge and skills to a political science-specific career or further studies in the subject.
Students seeking guidance can benefit from career services, academic advising, and other institutional resources. Learners can meet with the financial aid office to explore funding opportunities and determine their eligibility. The college's undergraduate cohort receives an average of $12,284 in financial aid, per person.
University of Missouri-St. Louis at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Admission Rate: 58%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $11,328
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $29,970
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $38,700
62%
$11,328
82%
$29,970
- Acceptance Rate
- 58%
- Students Enrolled
- 13,874
- Institution Type
- Public
Liberty University
- Lynchburg, VA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Liberty University, located in Lynchburg, Virginia, provides 93 bachelor's programs in dual modalities. Learners seeking flexible study relevant to the political science field can benefit from the school's bachelor's in political science. Students can apply their learnings to a political science-specific career or toward a graduate degree.
The college connects learners with institutional resources throughout their studies. Scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid can help defray degree costs.
Liberty University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Admission Rate: 50%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $14,791
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $14,791
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $35,800
93%
$14,791
81%
$14,791
- Acceptance Rate
- 50%
- Students Enrolled
- 93,349
- Institution Type
- Private
Pennsylvania State University-World Campus
- University Park, PA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Pennsylvania State University-World Campus offers a bachelor of arts in political science that introduces students to foundational skills and knowledge in the field. Degree-seekers also build general skills such as communication and critical thinking. Bachelor's degree-holders can apply their knowledge to a related career or graduate studies.
The institution connects students with success-oriented resources, such as career services and academic advising. Prospective students can meet with financial aid counselors to determine their eligibility for scholarships, grants, and other financial aid.
Pennsylvania State University-World Campus at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $43,600
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
- Acceptance Rate
- N/A
- Students Enrolled
- 0
- Institution Type
- Public
Online Bachelor’s in Political Programs Ranking Guidelines
We selected the degree programs based on the quality of program and range of courses provided as well as school awards, rankings, and reputation.
