If you want to get into politics or work in policy advocacy, a political science bachelor's program is a good place to start.
Political scientists study, research, analyze, and predict government policies and trends impacting everything from education to the justice system.
An online political science program can offer the flexibility you need to advance your career without disrupting your life. The options on this list combine affordability with excellent student outcomes to ensure they don't compromise on quality.
Start Your Political Science Journey Today
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Best Online Bachelor's in Political Science Programs
How We Measured Student Satisfaction: We partnered with College Pulse to bring you data from students themselves on the schools on our list. The data and reviews aren't part of our ranking methodology.
How We Highlight What Schools Do Best
We analyzed each school's program to identify qualities that set it apart from others on this list, prioritizing factors like tuition, online student resources, and concentration options. Based on these strengths, we assigned each school a superlative category.
Since many programs share similar offerings and outcomes, our goal is to simplify your college decision-making by highlighting the features most relevant to your needs.
We verified these schools' facts in November 2025.
Why You Should Get a Political Science Degree
Career Versatility: Political science degree-holders can pursue jobs in a variety of fields, including journalism, government contracting, high school and college education, and market research analysis.
Government Analysis: These degrees are a great fit for history buffs and those who like to analyze and predict government and economic trends using historical data.
Career Growth: Bachelor's degree-holders have a higher salary potential and ability to grow in their roles and promotions.
Benefits of Getting a Political Science Bachelor's Online
According to BestColleges' 2025 Online Education Trends Report, almost all (95%) of the online psychology, education, and social sciences students and graduates who were surveyed say they think earning an online degree has had or will have a positive return on investment (ROI).
Over half (52%) of these respondents say their online classes included assignments they could relate to their current jobs.
Most (75%) say an online learning environment is equal to or better than learning on campus.
How to Choose the Best Online Political Science Program for You
Before you apply, there are some things you should consider: cost, program length, what you need to qualify, and what careers are available after you graduate.
How Much Does an Online Political Science Bachelor's Degree Cost?
Social Science Bachelor's, 2020
Online
Avg. Tuition & Fees: $13,416
Avg. Net Price: $8,171
On-Campus
Avg. Tuition & Fees: $20,240
Avg. Net Price: $10,471
Source: NCES PowerStats
Social science includes many academic disciplines, including political science.
The average sticker price for an online social science bachelor's degree is about $13,400 a year, according to 2020 data from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). That's almost $7,000 less than the average in-person cost.
However, financial aid can lower the price even further. Students often paid an average of $8,171 for their online social science bachelor's degree after financial aid.
To see how much you can save for college, fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine your eligibility for grants, scholarships, and student loans.
Find Financial Aid for Your Political Science Program
How Long Does It Take to Get a Bachelor's in Political Science?
Typical # of Credits
120 Credits
Typical Program Length
4 Years
Typically, it'll take about four years to complete an online bachelor's in political science.
However, as an online student, you're given a few options to match your schedule and goals. If you went to college before but haven't earned your degree, you may qualify for degree completion programs. They typically allow you to transfer up to 90 credits from your prior experience to help you graduate sooner.
Accelerated online political science degrees allow you to get your degree in 2-3 years by condensing classes and coursework into shorter, more intense periods. If you're considering an accelerated degree, you may need to work part time or take a break from your job to focus on the fast-paced coursework.
Political Science Degree Application Requirements
Application: See if your prospective school accepts the Common App, which allows you to apply to multiple schools at once. If not, check the school's site for its application.
Test Scores: See if the school you are applying to requires any standardized test scores like the ACT or SAT to be sent in with your application.
Letters of Recommendation: Schools may require letters of recommendation from mentors, teachers, or peers from work or school to vouch for your work ethic, personality, and skills.
Official Transcripts: Make sure to send high school transcripts and any previous college transcripts with the college credits you've earned so far.
Essays: Typically, colleges will require 500- to 800-word essays showcasing your qualities and life experiences.
What Can You Do With a Political Science Degree?
Some of the most common jobs in political science require at least a master's degree, especially if you decide to become a political scientist responsible for studying, analyzing, and theorizing about political systems.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), political scientists make a median salary of $139,380 per year, as of May 2024. However, employment in the field is projected to decline 3% from 2024-2034.
Political science is a versatile degree. Other job options include postsecondary instructor at a college or university, journalist reporting on politics, or a market research analyst, all of which make a median salary above $60,000 a year, according to the BLS.
| Job | Median Annual Salary(May 2024) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Political Scientists | $139,380 | Study, analyze, theorize, and test political systems and theories. They often work as consultants. |
| High School Teachers | $64,580 | Responsible for teaching high school students and preparing them for college or the job market |
| Market Research Analysts | $76,950 | Study consumer behavior, business conditions, and other market factors to plan business decisions for goods and services |
| News Analysts, Reporters, and Journalists | $60,280 | Responsible for reporting news and investigating current events for the public |
| Public Relations Specialist | $69,780 | Promote brands or companies' public images |
Learn More About Political Science Jobs
Is an Online Bachelor's in Political Science Worth It?
That depends on your goals. If you want to pursue a career in or related to government, it may be well worth it. If you're debating between an online and in-person education, most students surveyed in our 2025 Online Education Trends Report say online college was the same, if not better than, learning on campus.
According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), the average starting salary for 2023 political science majors after graduation was $54,238. According to BestColleges' report, students also reported that their online social science degree has or will have a positive ROI.
Education Beyond a Bachelor's in Political Science
You may decide to continue your education after earning your bachelor's degree. You have plenty of options to choose from. Maybe you will continue on and pursue a master's in political science.
Your bachelor's in political science could also set you on the pathway to other master's degrees — for example, a master of business administration (MBA) degree — or, eventually, doctoral degree options in political science, education, and public administration.
These degrees can prepare you to be an expert in various specialties, whether it be environmental, U.S, global, or educational politics. They can also lead to leadership positions at government agencies, nonprofit organizations, universities, and government contract companies.
If you want to pursue a legal or political scientist role, you will need at least a master's degree. Higher degrees also open up opportunities for career growth and salary potential.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Bachelor's in Political Science
That depends on your goals. If you're interested in government or entering into a career with expertise in political systems, then it can be worth it. Political science is a versatile degree that translates well to other jobs, master's and doctoral degrees, and leadership positions.
