Best Online Bachelor's in Political Science

Find the best online bachelor's in political science with our list of top-rated schools that offer accredited online programs.
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Updated October 23, 2023

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Political Science Degree Online

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 $128,020 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 2022 and 2032, political science positions will increase by 7%.

Best Political Science Online Programs

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.

Graduation requirements will vary from school to school, and may include thesis projects, internships, or capstone courses.

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.

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: $59,200 Projected Job Growth: 4%

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: $55,960 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: $62,360 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.

Top Political Science Online Programs

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.

#1 Best Online Bachelor’s in Political Science

Florida International University

  • Miami, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,721
Out-of-state
$16,529
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,912
Out-of-state
$21,393
Retention Rate
91%
Acceptance Rate
58%
Students Enrolled
58,836
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
86% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#2 Best Online Bachelor’s in Political Science

University of Central Florida

  • Orlando, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,478
Out-of-state
$19,810
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,916
Out-of-state
$25,759
Retention Rate
92%
Acceptance Rate
45%
Students Enrolled
71,881
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
9% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#3 Best Online Bachelor’s in Political Science

Southern New Hampshire University

  • Manchester, NH
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,600
Out-of-state
$9,600
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$18,810
Out-of-state
$18,810
Retention Rate
67%
Acceptance Rate
94%
Students Enrolled
134,345
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
96% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#4 Best Online Bachelor’s in Political Science

Arizona State University Digital Immersion

  • Scottsdale, AZ
  • 4 years
  • Online

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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,710
Out-of-state
$10,820
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,516
Out-of-state
$6,516
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
73%
Students Enrolled
53,993
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#5 Best Online Bachelor’s in Political Science

Rutgers University-New Brunswick

  • New Brunswick, NJ
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$12,230
Out-of-state
$29,012
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$17,736
Out-of-state
$30,144
Retention Rate
93%
Acceptance Rate
67%
Students Enrolled
50,411
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
33% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#6 Best Online Bachelor’s in Political Science

Fort Hays State University

  • Hays, KS
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,140
Out-of-state
$14,580
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$3,726
Out-of-state
$10,602
Retention Rate
78%
Acceptance Rate
91%
Students Enrolled
15,033
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
57% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#7 Best Online Bachelor’s in Political Science

Keiser University-Ft. Lauderdale

  • Fort Lauderdale, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$19,808
Out-of-state
$19,808
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$27,162
Out-of-state
$27,162
Retention Rate
60%
Acceptance Rate
97%
Students Enrolled
20,330
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
48% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#8 Best Online Bachelor’s in Political Science

Johnson & Wales University-Online

  • Providence, RI
  • 4 years
  • Online

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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$13,365
Out-of-state
$13,365
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,148
Out-of-state
$14,148
Retention Rate
50%
Acceptance Rate
36%
Students Enrolled
2,152
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#9 Best Online Bachelor’s in Political Science

University of Arizona

  • Tucson, AZ
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,990
Out-of-state
$33,273
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,938
Out-of-state
$32,065
Retention Rate
85%
Acceptance Rate
85%
Students Enrolled
45,601
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
56% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#10 Best Online Bachelor’s in Political Science

Kennesaw State University

  • Kennesaw, GA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,450
Out-of-state
$15,704
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,328
Out-of-state
$19,188
Retention Rate
80%
Acceptance Rate
83%
Students Enrolled
41,181
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
94% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#11 Best Online Bachelor’s in Political Science

Indiana University-East

  • Richmond, IN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,067
Out-of-state
$19,926
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,482
Out-of-state
$17,627
Retention Rate
67%
Acceptance Rate
67%
Students Enrolled
3,434
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
97% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#12 Best Online Bachelor’s in Political Science

National University

  • San Diego, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$13,320
Out-of-state
$13,320
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$15,480
Out-of-state
$15,480
Retention Rate
45%
Acceptance Rate
89%
Students Enrolled
18,070
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
44% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#13 Best Online Bachelor’s in Political Science

Texas Tech University

  • Lubbock, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,683
Out-of-state
$20,953
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,788
Out-of-state
$14,968
Retention Rate
87%
Acceptance Rate
70%
Students Enrolled
40,322
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
54% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#14 Best Online Bachelor’s in Political Science

University of Maryland Global Campus

  • Adelphi, MD
  • 4 years
  • Online

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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,200
Out-of-state
$11,976
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,640
Out-of-state
$11,862
Retention Rate
55%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
58,526
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
92% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#15 Best Online Bachelor’s in Political Science

Oregon State University

  • Corvallis, OR
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,846
Out-of-state
$29,445
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,257
Out-of-state
$26,109
Retention Rate
85%
Acceptance Rate
82%
Students Enrolled
32,312
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
52% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

#16 Best Online Bachelor’s in Political Science

American Public University

  • Charles Town, WV
  • 4 years
  • Online

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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,840
Out-of-state
$6,840
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,660
Out-of-state
$6,660
Retention Rate
98%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
50,047
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#17 Best Online Bachelor’s in Political Science

Washington State University

  • Pullman, WA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,202
Out-of-state
$25,145
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,781
Out-of-state
$25,879
Retention Rate
81%
Acceptance Rate
80%
Students Enrolled
31,159
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
28% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

#18 Best Online Bachelor’s in Political Science

University of Missouri-St. Louis

  • Saint Louis, MO
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$11,328
Out-of-state
$29,970
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,283
Out-of-state
$30,154
Retention Rate
82%
Acceptance Rate
58%
Students Enrolled
13,874
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
62% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#19 Best Online Bachelor’s in Political Science

Liberty University

  • Lynchburg, VA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$14,791
Out-of-state
$14,791
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,935
Out-of-state
$7,935
Retention Rate
81%
Acceptance Rate
50%
Students Enrolled
93,349
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
93% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#20 Best Online Bachelor’s in Political Science

Pennsylvania State University-World Campus

  • University Park, PA
  • 4 years
  • Campus

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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
Not provided
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

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.

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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