Online Bachelor of Science in Political Science

The Bachelor of Science in political science focuses on the relationship between citizens and their governments. As a student in this bachelor's in political science program, you’ll build an in-depth understanding of how political theory and policy connect to practical issues. During your studies, you’ll develop skills that are applicable in business, politics, government and nonprofit careers.

Learn more

Quick facts

Next start date:

Next start date: 05/16/2024


Total classes:

Total classes: 40

Weeks per class:

Weeks per class: 7.5

Total credit hours:

Total credit hours: 120

Degree questions, answered.

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What is a bachelor's in political science?

A bachelor's in political science combines a program dedicated to building an understanding of government, policy and citizens with the traditional math and scientific emphasis of a Bachelor of Science degree.

The goal of this political science degree is to provide a deep review of national and global political trends, as well as develop valuable knowledge related to statistics, science and society. Disparate factors, ranging from public opinion to peer-reviewed scientific research and statistical analysis, influence the development and revision of policy. Building familiarity with these topics is vital in the world of politics and the related fields in which graduates work.

This bachelor’s degree can be completed as part of an Accelerated Master’s program. When accepted, you can earn a master’s degree in as little as one year after completing your undergraduate degree. This opportunity saves you time and money, while giving you advanced knowledge in your field. Applicable master’s degrees include:

Which political science degree is right for me?

 

In addition to this political science degree, ASU Online offers a Bachelor of Arts in political science. While both political science programs offer a shared foundation in the concepts of policy, government and citizen needs, the Bachelor of Science prioritizes additional learning in statistics and science that directly applies to the development and analysis of policy. Whereas, the Bachelor of Arts includes a foreign language component, which can be especially valuable in international business and political pursuits.

What skills can I gain with a degree in political science?

 

A bachelor's in political science provides you with the tools and skills necessary in making connections with theory and the real-world issues in the political sphere. Key skills you'll develop with your political science degree include:

  • Critical reasoning and argumentation.
  • Effective and engaging writing.
  • Informational analysis.
  • Targeted research.

Does my BS in political science say 'online'?

No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.” That’s because ASU Online students learn from the same faculty and receive the same course content as in-person students receive.

Online political science degree courses

This political science degree offers a variety of courses and opportunities to study politics and public policy at the local, national and global levels. While completing your courses, you'll have the opportunity to complete an internship, allowing you to gain real-world experience. Featured courses include: 


POS 210: Political Ideologies (CIVI OR SB)


POS 301: Empirical Political Inquiry (SOBE OR SB)


POS 401: Political Statistics (QTRS OR CS)


POS 150: Comparative Government (GCSI OR SB & G)


POS 160: Global Politics (GCSI OR SB & G)


POS 110: American Government and Politics (AMIT OR SB)


What can I do with a bachelor's in political science?

While political science includes a strong focus on the public sector, graduates with a degree in political science can also go on to pursue roles in nonprofits and businesses. Talents like effective communication and critical reasoning are valuable and apply to fields ranging from business analysis to journalism. Career examples include, but are not limited to:

Business Analyst


Growth: 9.7 %
Salary: $95,290

Data Analyst


Growth: -1.7 %
Salary: $48,880

Field Researcher


Growth: -3.8 %
Salary: $60,410

Human Behavior Researcher


Growth: 4.8 %
Salary: $50,470

Intelligence Officer


Growth: 1.5 %
Salary: $86,280

Marketing Manager


Growth: 6.6 %
Salary: $140,040

News Reporter


Growth: -3.3 %
Salary: $55,960

Political Analyst


Growth: 6.6 %
Salary: $128,020

Politician


Growth: 3.4 %
Salary: $48,090

Earn your online degree from award winning faculty

From Royal Society and American Academy fellows to Marshall and Barry Goldwater Scholarship recipients, The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences is home to prestigious students and faculty members.

  • Fulbright American Scholars.
  • Guggenheim Fellows.
  • MacArthur Fellows.
  • Nobel laureates.

Earn your online degree from award winning faculty

From Royal Society and American Academy fellows to Marshall and Barry Goldwater Scholarship recipients, The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences is home to prestigious students and faculty members.

  • Fulbright American Scholars.
  • Guggenheim Fellows.
  • MacArthur Fellows.
  • Nobel laureates.

Admission requirements for the political science degree

I am a future

You’re considered a first-year student for application purposes if you’ve never attended college or have fewer than 12 transferable credit hours.

Learn how to apply.

Competency requirements

Additional admission requirements

High school equivalency

Homeschool

Don't meet admission requirements?

You can still gain general admission to most online programs at ASU through Earned Admission. Through this pathway, you can demonstrate your ability to succeed at ASU by completing online courses with a 2.75 GPA or higher.

To begin, submit an application to ASU. An enrollment coach will reach out with more information if Earned Admission is right for you.

*Some programs may have higher admission requirements. You must meet all program requirements to be admitted.

Don't meet admission requirements?

You can still gain general admission to most online programs at ASU through Earned Admission. Through this pathway, you can demonstrate your ability to succeed at ASU by completing online courses with a 2.75 GPA or higher.

To begin, submit an application to ASU. An enrollment coach will reach out with more information if Earned Admission is right for you.

*Some programs may have higher admission requirements. You must meet all program requirements to be admitted.

Join a college dedicated to student success

The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences takes a transdisciplinary approach to education with a vast spectrum of degrees in the social sciences, natural sciences and humanities. We inspire students to be socially aware, critical thinkers and global citizens. 

25,500+


currently enrolled students.

$140 million


in research expenditures in 2018.

23


interdisciplinary schools and departments.

95+


undergraduate degrees.

Tuition calculator

Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.

Tuition calculator

Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.

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