Online bachelor's degree programs in political science give students the flexibility to balance their studies with professional and personal obligations. Learners in these programs study political systems and behavior while strengthening critical thinking, analytical, and writing skills.
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 $117,000 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. This is good, because political science is a rapidly evolving discipline that mirrors the current political climate of the United States. Furthermore, renewed interest in the field means there may be more students considering degrees in political science. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that between 2018 and 2028, political science positions will increase by 5%.
Top 10 Online Bachelor's Programs in Political Science
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.
Graduation requirements will vary from school to school, and may include thesis projects, internships, or capstone courses.
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.
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
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.
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.
Political Science Professional Organizations
While pursuing a political science degree online, there are ways to stay connected with your field even without being on campus. Professional organizations generally provide members with several valuable and useful tools and services. Membership in career or field-specific professional organizations can help students find networking opportunities, continuing education and professional development programs, and conferences. The three organizations below are open to members studying and/or working in the field of political science.
American Political Science Association In addition to supporting research and scholarship in the field, APSA also offers several events and conferences, as well as a members-only job board and professional development opportunities.
Southern Political Science Association SPSA is primarily responsible for the publication of a scholarly journal, the Journal of Politics. Members receive access to the journal and the organization’s annual conference.
International Political Science Association The IPSA was founded in France. It promotes the field globally, emphasizing political research and scholarship around the world. It also holds World Congress events at various locations around the globe.
Best Online Bachelor's in Political Science Programs
The University of Iowa is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
About this school
A public research university founded in 1847, the University of Iowa grants degrees from its campus on the banks of the Iowa River and online. UI's online bachelor's degree in political science offers self-paced options, giving learners the flexibility to balance their studies with personal and professional obligations.
Political science majors take general education, elective, and major courses, studying topics like American politics, political behavior, comparative politics, and international relations. After completing lower-level course requirements, political science majors take advanced coursework in political science.
UI offers certificate programs to complement the degree, including certificates in political risk analysis and social science analytics. Online political science majors work with academic advisors to register for courses, apply transfer credits, and create a comprehensive plan of study. Online students gain access to academic advising and online instructor office hours.
Prospective students with no prior college experience must submit an application, high school transcripts, and ACT or SAT scores. Transfer students must submit an application and provide transcripts from all colleges and universities attended. Transfer students with fewer than 24 transferable credits must also submit ACT or SAT scores and high school transcripts.
Indiana University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
About this school
Established in 1820, Indiana University enrolls over 110,000 students each year. IU Online expands the university's reach by offering fully online degrees, such as a bachelor's in political science. Political science majors build knowledge of government and politics while strengthening their writing and analytical skills.
The 120-credit political science degree incorporates classes on constitutional law, urban politics, political philosophy, and public opinion. Students complete 15 credits of political science core classes and 21 credits of advanced courses. The curriculum explores political science subfields like comparative politics, political theory, and international relations. All students complete a senior seminar that synthesizes degree knowledge and skills.
IU supports online learners through student services like personalized application support, an interactive orientation for new students, and one-on-one success coaching. Career services help students transition into the workforce, while IU library resources connect students with research. IU accepts applications on a rolling basis. Applicants must submit official transcripts. IU offers a tuition discount for Indiana residents.
Oregon State University is regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).
About this school
Founded in 1868, Oregon State University is a public research institution that offers over 70 online degree and certificate programs through Oregon State Ecampus. Online programs include a political science bachelor's degree for students interested in politics, government, and international relations. OSU's program ranks among the best online bachelor's degree programs in political science for its focus on environmental politics and policy.
OSU offers more online courses in environmental politics than any other school, offering courses such as the politics of climate change, global food politics, and sustainable living. Political science majors also complete courses on topics like U.S. politics, the politics of Western Europe, international relations, and comparative politics.
Political science majors can complement the degree with a minor in business, economics, leadership, public health, or history. In addition to major and minor requirements, OSU students must complete general education courses, including a writing intensive course, to strengthen analytical and critical thinking skills.
Transfer students with at least 24 prior college credits need a minimum 2.25 GPA for admission. Applicants with fewer than 15 prior college credits must submit high school transcripts and SAT or ACT scores. OSU prefers a minimum 3.0 GPA for first-year students.
The University of Maine is regionally accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE).
About this school
The flagship campus for Maine's public university system, the University of Maine offers year-round courses through UMaineOnline. Students can earn an online bachelor of arts in political science that emphasizes political change, global politics, and political practices. UMaine encourages experiential learning through internships, community involvement, and other opportunities to learn outside of the classroom.
Political science majors take courses in four main subfields: American politics, international relations, comparative politics, and political theory. Students complete at least six credits in each subfield. UMaine encourages students to double major or pursue a minor in areas like labor studies, leadership studies, or legal studies. In addition to political science courses, students take general education classes.
Applicants must submit official transcripts and SAT or ACT scores. UMaine waives the standardized test score requirement for transfer students with over 12 prior college credits or applicants who are at least 20 years old. First-year applicants must submit a school recommendation. UMaine offers a tuition discount for Maine residents.
Texas Tech University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
About this school
Texas Tech University enrolls nearly 39,000 students through on-campus and online programs, including an online bachelor's degree in political science. The 120-credit degree covers politics, political values, foreign policy, and domestic policy issues. Graduates can pursue careers in law, politics, civil service, and related fields.
Political science majors take core courses in American government, the federal and Texas constitutions, and American public policy. Students can pursue one of the following concentrations to tailor the degree to their interests and goals:
American politics
Comparative politics
International relations
Policy and public administration
Online students gain access to 24/7 chat and online support. Prospective students applying as first-time freshmen must submit official high school transcripts and SAT or ACT scores. Transfer students with at least 12 prior college credits must submit official transcripts from every college attended.
The University of Wisconsin Milwaukee is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
About this school
An urban research university, the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee enrolls 26,000 students through nearly 200 degree-granting programs each year. UWM students can earn a bachelor's in political science online that covers American politics, comparative politics, political theory, and international relations.
Political science majors take general education, major, and elective courses. Major courses cover topics like American public policy, environmental politics, and the politics of nuclear weapons. Students can also participate in research projects and internships to enhance their training. Additionally, the program offers a law studies option for students considering law school. All students enjoy access to personalized advising from faculty members.
Online learners take the same classes and learn from the same faculty as on-campus UWM students. Applicants must submit official transcripts. Freshman applicants and applicants under the age of 21 must also submit ACT or SAT scores. UWM performs an official evaluation of transfer credits for admitted students. Admissions counselors also offer unofficial transcript evaluations for prospective transfer students.
Florida International University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
About this school
The only public research university in Miami, Florida International University enrolls nearly 54,000 students annually. Students can earn an online bachelor's degree in political science that prepares students for careers in government and the private sector. Graduates can also pursue graduate study.
The 120-credit degree includes 39 major credits. Students take introductory political science courses and six credits in each of four political science subfields: American politics, international politics, comparative politics, and political theory. Online learners study topics like American government and politics, political theories, and political processes. Students can customize the degree to their interests and goals through diverse elective options.
Freshman applicants must submit SAT or ACT scores and official high school transcripts. Transfer Applicants must submit official college transcripts. Transfer applicants with fewer than 60 prior credits must also submit high school transcripts and SAT or ACT scores. FIU offers a tuition discount for Florida residents
The University of Memphis is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
About this school
Established in 1912, the University of Memphis is a research institution that enrolls over 21,000 students through on-campus and online programs. Students can earn an online bachelor's degree in political science that emphasizes political institutions worldwide, the development of political thought, and analytical and interpretive skills.
The 120-credit online political science degree introduces students to four subfields of political science: American government and politics, comparative politics, international relations, and political theory. Online learners complete courses like public policy, the political media, politics of the global economy, and human rights in world politics.
The program offers year-round courses and fully online and hybrid study options. Most courses feature an asynchronous format, giving students the flexibility to balance their studies with personal and professional obligations. Academic advisors help students design their course of study, while librarians connect online learners with resources. UofM also offers career resources and technology support.
The University of Central Florida is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
About this school
The University of Central Florida offers over 80 online programs, including an online bachelor's degree in political science. The program builds critical reasoning, analytical, and thinking skills, focusing on topics like government, international relations, public policy, and politics.
Political science majors take core classes in American national government, the methods of political science, and international relations. Students can choose from several tracks to focus their studies, including American politics and policy, international relations-comparative politics, and pre-law. The pre-law track emphasizes the skills and knowledge required for law school, including courses in American constitutional law, the judicial process, and international law.
Online learners work with academic advisors to select courses aligned with their career goals. The political science program also connects online students with internship opportunities with local, state, and national government agencies and political campaigns.
Applicants must submit official transcripts from all previously attended institutions and hold a minimum 2.0 GPA. UCF also requires high school transcripts and SAT or ACT scores for applicants with fewer than 60 transfer credits. Florida residents receive a tuition discount.
Keiser University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
About this school
Founded to serve adult learners in 1977, Keiser University enrolls 20,000 students each year, making it the third-largest nonprofit university in Florida. Keiser offers an online bachelor's in political science degree that explores government policy, political campaigning, and legal studies. The program blends a liberal arts focus with career-ready training.
The 120-credit online political science degree includes 48 credits of political science courses on topics like the American presidency, the campaign process, and great political thinkers. The program also offers courses in urban government social policy, American constitutional law, and mass media and politics. Graduates learn to analyze political systems, understand the functions of government in society, and think critically about political institutions.
In addition to political science courses, the degree requires 36 credits of lower-division general education courses and 12 credits of upper-division general education courses. These courses include American history, public speaking, and macroeconomics.
Applicants work with an admissions counselor to complete the application process. After meeting with an admissions counselor, prospective students can submit an application. Admitted students benefit from small class sizes and an emphasis on hands-on career education.
Central Michigan University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
About this school
A public institution with a liberal arts focus, Central Michigan University dates back to 1892. The university enrolls 16,000 students on its campus in Mount Pleasant and over 8,000 distance learners. Students can earn a fully online bachelor's degree in political science that covers public and foreign policy, data analysis, and political theory.
The 120-credit program incorporates classes in five main fields: American national political institutions and processes; American state and local government, public administration, and policy; international relations; comparative politics; and political theory. Online learners can customize the degree by pursuing an undergraduate certificate in citizen engagement, political advocacy and elections, or lawmaking and legal processes.
The online political science degree also includes general education courses in the humanities, natural sciences, social sciences, and global studies. These requirements strengthen the critical thinking and analytical skills needed for success in political science careers.
Applicants must submit transcripts with a minimum 2.0 GPA. CMU considers conditional admission for students who do not meet the GPA requirement.
Sam Houston State University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
About this school
Founded in 1879, Sam Houston State University is a public institution that offers on-campus and online degrees, including a fully online political science bachelor's degree. Students benefit from small class sizes, internship opportunities, and the ability to earn a bachelor of arts or bachelor of science degree.
Students take general education, elective, and major courses. Political science majors can choose from the following concentrations to tailor the degree to their interests and goals:
American government
International relations and foreign policy
Comparative government
Public administration
Political theory
The program emphasizes experiential learning through internships. In Texas, students can intern with city or county governments, nonprofit organizations, political campaigns, or the Texas legislature. SHSU has also placed students in out-of-state internships. Students interested in law can pursue a legal studies minor.
Prospective students must submit official transcripts. Applicants with fewer than 11 transfer credits must provide ACT or SAT scores and high school transcripts. Applicants with fewer than 17 credits need a minimum 2.5 GPA; applicants with more than 18 credits need a minimum 2.0 GPA.
The University of Massachusetts Lowell is regionally accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE).
About this school
A public research institution, the University of Massachusetts Lowell offers diverse on-campus and online programs, including an online bachelor's degree in liberal arts with a concentration in political science. Political science students can also select a second concentration in economics, history, legal studies, psychology, art history, English, gender studies, or philosophy.
The liberal arts program enhances critical thinking and communication skills. The political science concentration examines the nature of politics and government. Students choose from courses like American politics, the politics of the internet, public policy and administration, and the American presidency. In addition to concentration requirements, liberal arts majors take general education courses in English, math, the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences.
UMass Lowell charges a flat tuition rate for all online students regardless of residency. Prospective students must hold a high school diploma or the equivalent. Applicants under the age of 21 with fewer than 12 credits must submit SAT or ACT scores. All applicants must submit transcripts.
Johnson and Wales University is regionally accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE).
About this school
A career-focused institution founded in 1914, Johnson and Wales University emphasizes experiential education. Students can earn an online bachelor's degree in political science that emphasizes political literacy, civic and global engagement, and the application of theory to politics. Graduates enter the workforce with strong analytical, critical, and ethical thinking skills.
Political science majors can tailor the degree to their career goals by choosing from elective courses like American politics; international and comparative politics; and political thought, communication, and practice. The political science degree also incorporates general education requirements, which students can meet through transfer credits. JWU encourages experiential and applied learning by offering internship, study abroad, and language learning opportunities. Students can also choose to complete an undergraduate thesis.
The program includes 11-week, fully online courses. Prospective students must submit transcripts and a resume demonstrating at least two years of full-time work experience or an associate degree. Students can begin on one of four start dates per year.
Southeast Missouri State University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
About this school
Founded in 1873, Southeast Missouri State University enrolls nearly 12,000 students each year through on-campus and online programs. SEMO offers an online bachelor of arts in social science with a concentration in political science. The program trains students in social science methods, research, and analysis.
The 120-credit program includes courses in social science research methods, statistics, and problems in social science. Students then choose 21 credits of political science courses, including at least 15 upper-division credits. All majors can complete internships to gain hands-on experience in the field. Students must pass a writing proficiency exam and fulfill general education requirements to graduate.
Freshman applicants must submit high school transcripts. Transfer students with at least 24 prior college credits must submit official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended with a minimum 2.0 GPA. All online learners pay the same tuition rate regardless of residency.
Eastern Kentucky University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
About this school
A public institution in the bluegrass region, Eastern Kentucky University offers online programs designed for working professionals, including a bachelor's degree in political science. The program features eight-week courses and a customizable pace, allowing students to balance their studies with professional and personal obligations.
The 120-credit, fully online political science degree includes courses in world politics, political science research, and public administration. Upper-division courses include American politics, comparative politics, international relations, and political philosophy. Students can choose from three concentrations to tailor the degree to their interests and goals:
Public administration/public policy
International relations and comparative politics
American institutions/law
EKU offers six start dates per year. Active-duty military members receive a tuition discount. Online students gain access to free online tutoring and career services. The university also offers a generous transfer credit policy. All online learners pay the same tuition rate regardless of residency.
The University of Massachusetts Dartmouth is regionally accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE).
About this school
A public institution in coastal New England, the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth offers a variety of on-campus and online programs, including an online bachelor's degree in political science. The online political science degree covers political institutions and processes in a global environment.
Political science majors take courses on public policy, constitutional law, and public administration. The program also examines topics like civil liberties, women and public policy, and political parties. Political science students complete a three-credit internship to gain hands-on experience at a site approved by the department.
Students can choose a pre-law concentration that prepares them for law school. The concentration includes coursework in law and the courts, with a focus on U.S. and international political systems. All political science majors receive access to one-on-one personal advising, free online tutoring, and writing support.
Students can transfer up to 75 credits toward the 120-credit online political science degree. Prospective students must submit official transcripts. Applicants with fewer than 13 prior college credits must also submit SAT or ACT scores and a personal statement.
Fort Hays State University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
About this school
Fort Hays State University enrolls students in diverse on-campus and online programs. FHSU students can pursue an online BS or BA in political science. The BA program includes 10 modern language credits, while the BS program incorporates coursework in math, science, and applied studies. Both programs blend theoretical and practical knowledge, incorporating hands-on learning through internship opportunities.
Political science courses cover topics like public policy, American government, and research methods. All students complete a senior capstone that synthesizes degree knowledge and skills. Students can choose from three concentrations to customize the degree to their interests and goals:
Pre-law
Public administration
International relations/comparative politics
Students take 12 credits of concentration classes. Pre-law courses cover topics like legal advocacy, constitutional law, and legal philosophy, preparing students for law school.
Freshman applicants must rank in the top third of their high school class or meet GPA and standardized test score minimums. FHSU admits transfer students with a minimum 2.0 GPA on at least 24 credits.
The University of Wisconsin-La Crosse is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
About this school
Founded in 1909, the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse is a public institution that grants a variety of online and on-campus degrees. Students interested in politics and government can earn an online bachelor's degree in political science.
The 120-credit program applies humanistic and scientific approaches to the study of government, policies, and political behavior. Political science majors blend classroom learning with hands-on experience, including the option to complete up to 12 credits through an internship.
UW-La Crosse divides its political science curriculum into four subfields: American government and politics, international relations, comparative politics, and political theory. In addition to foundational courses in the subfields, online learners take general education classes, upper-division political science courses, and a capstone seminar.
Prospective students typically need a minimum 2.25 GPA on all transfer credits, though the university considers applicants with a 2.0 GPA. Applicants must provide official transcripts. Applicants with fewer than 18 prior college credits must also submit ACT or SAT scores.
Arkansas State University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
About this school
Founded in 1909, Arkansas State University is a public institution that enrolls over 14,000 students each year. A-State grants online degrees in a variety of disciplines, including a bachelor's in political science. The program provides a strong background in politics, law, and policy while strengthening skills in research, writing, and advocacy. A-State reports a 100% placement rate for political science graduates who apply to law school.
The 120-credit online political science degree includes classes in U.S. government, European political systems, and political analysis. Students also take courses in public administration, comparative politics, and modern political thought. Online students can double major in fields like communication studies, criminology, and sociology. Graduates from the political science program can apply up to nine credits of undergraduate coursework toward the online master of public administration degree at A-State.
All online learners pay the same tuition rate regardless of residency. Freshman applicants must submit transcripts with a minimum 2.75 GPA and ACT or SAT scores. A-State waives the test score requirement for transfer students with at least 24 prior credits. Transfer students need a minimum 2.0 GPA on previous college coursework.
Southern New Hampshire University is regionally accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE).
About this school
A private institution that enrolls over 90,000 online students annually, Southern New Hampshire University dates back to 1932. Students can earn an online bachelor's degree in political science that emphasizes current events. Students develop critical thinking and communication skills while exploring political tactics and strategies.
The program trains students to apply social science reasoning to contemporary political issues. Online learners take classes in American state and local government, the U.S. legal system, and contemporary issues in U.S. government. Students culminate the degree with a capstone course that synthesizes degree knowledge and skills.
Students can begin on one of six start dates per year and receive access to academic and career advising. Learners can transfer up to 90 credits toward the 120-credit degree. In addition to academic credits, students can receive credit for work and life experience, including professional certifications and law enforcement training. SNHU does not require standardized test scores and does not set a minimum GPA for admission.
Rutgers University is regionally accredited by the Middle State Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).
About this school
A national research university and the flagship campus of New Jersey's public university system, Rutgers University-New Brunswick dates back to 1766. Rutgers enrolls over 70,000 students through on-campus and online programs, including an online bachelor of arts in political science. The degree-completion program admits applicants with an associate degree or junior status. Rutgers recommends taking an introduction to political science course before applying to the major.
Political science majors learn about current issues in politics, the role of civil disobedience, and patterns of political behavior. The program incorporates classes on the nature of politics, American government, and law and politics. Courses also examine topics like international relations, international political economy, and comparative politics. Specialized courses like capitalism, socialism, and democracy examine the development of democracies and dictatorships in the modern world.
Freshman applicants must submit transcripts, a personal essay, and SAT or ACT scores. Rutgers waives the standardized test score requirement for applicants with at least 12 prior college credits or those who graduated from high school two or more years ago.
Troy University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
About this school
A public institution founded in 1887, Troy University offers online, on-campus, and blended programs with an emphasis on flexibility. The university offers multiple online degrees, including a bachelor's degree in political science. The fully online degree features nine-week classes.
Students take foundational courses in American government and world politics. Classes in political theory and political science research strengthen students' analytical and critical thinking skills. Students can pursue one of two concentrations in American politics and public administration or international politics. Regardless of their concentration, students can further customize the degree through electives on topics like women in politics, public policy making, and Russian politics.
Freshman applicants must submit transcripts with a minimum 2.0 GPA and ACT or SAT scores. Troy waives the standardized test requirement for applicants who are at least 25 years old and for transfer students with at least 24 prior college credits. Transfer students need a minimum 2.0 GPA for unconditional admission to the university. Troy offers a transfer credit equivalency report for prospective students.
The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
About this school
A public university that hosts over 12,000 students each year, the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater dates back to 1868. In addition to on-campus degrees, UW-Whitewater grants online degrees, including a bachelor's degree in political science. The program builds foundational knowledge of government and politics. Graduates can pursue careers in politics, law, civil service, and related fields.
The political science program offers courses in American government and politics, the legal system, public policy and administration, and comparative government. An American foreign policy class analyzes the growth of American power and the establishment of American foreign policies. Political science majors can also take courses in international studies, legal studies, and lobbying studies. In addition to major classes, undergraduates take general education courses.
Freshman applicants must submit high school transcripts and ACT or SAT scores. Transfer applicants must submit official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended. In addition to prior coursework, UW-Whitewater grants credit for military experience. All applicants need a minimum 2.0 GPA.
Grand View University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
About this school
A private institution affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church, Grand View University dates back to 1896. GV offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, including an online bachelor's in political science that introduces students to American politics, international affairs, and political theory. The program prepares graduates for political science careers and law school.
The political science program emphasizes interdisciplinary thinking while covering different political science subfields. Major courses cover topics like public policy, comparative politics, and international relations. The curriculum also incorporates a political studies seminar, an internship to build hands-on experience, and a senior seminar. Students can customize the degree by choosing from concentrations in:
Pre-law
Public administration
The pre-law concentration builds critical analysis, public speaking, and problem solving skills, preparing students for law school. The public administration concentration prepares graduates for leadership roles in the public sector. Public administration students take organizational behavior, management, and public finance classes. Regardless of their concentration, all students must also fulfill general education requirements.
Applicants must submit official transcripts. Applicants with fewer than 24 prior college credits must also submit ACT or SAT scores.
Graduation Rate
50%
Percent Receiving Loans
73%
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Ranking Methodology
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.
Methodology for College Rankings
The motto of TheBestSchools.org is Finding the best school for you. Here is how we do it:
The value of any ranking list of schools and/or degree programs depends on having a methodologically sound assessment of each school’s/program’s characteristics, especially insofar as these can be objectively measured. A college or university is a complex entity, with numerous factors to consider, and distilling these down to the place where meaningful comparisons can be made to form a defensible ranking list becomes part science and part art.
To meet this challenge—and thereby provide you with the most useful and insightful educational rankings on the Internet — TheBestSchools.org formulates our rankings based on five informational categories (six, when considering online schools). The major metrics and qualities for which we rank are these (with expanded, detailed considerations and weights listed):
1. Academic excellence based on a school’s curriculum generally or within the selected discipline [weight = 25%]
Weighs school against known leading schools in that discipline
Weighs number of core curricula listed as advanced courses within that discipline and compares against introductory courses
Weighs school’s curriculum against known knowledge needs of major employers in that discipline
Considers number and types of specializations offered within that discipline
Considers faculty expertise in that discipline
Considers range of electives within that discipline
Considers quality of online environment offered to students (if applicable), particularly within that discipline
2. Strength of faculty scholarship [weight = 25%]
Considers education background of the faculty
Considers years of faculty experience both inside and outside of academia.
Considers faculty membership and leadership within relevant, prominent associations
Considers academic papers published by faculty in relevant, prominent periodicals
Considers awards and recognitions given to faculty members from prominent organizations and from other sources
3. Reputation [weight = 20%]
Considers a school’s reputation among academic peers and employers regarding the following:
Faculty
Curriculum
“Freshness” of academic knowledge
Adaptability to changes in employment sectors
Suitability of graduates for the workplace
4. Financial aid [weight = 10%]
Mandatory: Requires full accreditation from an agency endorsed by the U.S. Department of Education and listed on the federal register to accept student federal financial aid
Considers range of school-sponsored financial aid such as scholarships and grants
5. Range of degree programs [weight = 20%]
Considers range of degree levels: associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral and professional
Considers range of degree subjects offered, such as art & design, computers & technology, education & teaching, criminal justice, and business
6. Strength of online instruction methodology (if applicable) [weight = 25%; subtract 5% from each of the above for online schools/programs]
Considers the following of the online classes:
Types of online technology used to deliver content
Pedagogy style: asynchronous, synchronous, or both (depending on the degree)
Extent and quality of the online, community learning environment, including options for communication, interactivity, and collaboration between students and also between students and instructors
Variety, breadth, and depth of coursework, and its support, including project options and online tutoring
Considers the following of instructors:
Extent of training for teaching within an online learning environment
Amount of timely, consistent feedback to students
Extent of collaboration with prospective employers to ensure suitability of instructional materials for achieving desired skills
Ratio to number of students in a class
Number and quality of internships in a student’s geographical area for applicable degrees
Because students tend to review a variety of information when choosing a school, the weight a student gives any one criterion will vary. For instance, it’s not enough to offer a carefully constructed ranking of great schools if many are too expensive or too difficult to get into.
To better serve the needs of prospective students, we are therefore increasingly offering filters that help you better use our rankings to find the schools that match your specific needs. These supplement our ranking criteria and include:
Accreditation
Public or private status
Acceptance rate
Retention rate
Graduation rate
ACT/SAT requirements
Cost in-state / out of state
Undergrad, grad, or both offered
Region
State
City
Get the best rankings here AND get them to suit your personal needs. That’s TheBestSchools.org advantage!
If you have any questions about our ranking methodology, please contact us.
Citations: For a broader account of our ranking methodology, especially as it relates to TheBestSchools.org's underlying educational philosophy and, in other ranking articles, looks beyond academic excellence (as here) to such factors as return on investment or incidental benefit, see our article "Ranking Methodology: How We Rank Schools at TBS." Reputation of schools and degree programs can at least in part be gauged through the school or department's publishing activity, citations, and desirability. At TheBestSchools.org, we keep track of such social and peer validation: "Making Sense of College Rankings." For nuts-and-bolts information about colleges and universities, we look to the National Center for Education Statistics and especially its College Navigator. Insofar as salary and inflation data are relevant to a ranking, we look to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Finally, nothing beats contacting schools and degree programs directly, which our researchers often do, with the result that all the entries in this article should be considered as belonging to this citation!
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