Online Bachelor of Science in Political Science
Arizona State University’s Bachelor of Science in political science focuses on the relationship between citizens and their governments. As a student in this 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.
Quick facts
Next start date: 01/10/2022
Total classes: 40
Weeks per class: 7.5
Total credit hours: 120
Degree questions, answered.
Have questions about the Political Science (BS)? Fill out this form and we’ll get in touch!
What is a Bachelor of Science (BS) in political science?
A BS degree 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 program 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.
Should I get a political science BA or a BS?
While both political science programs offer a shared foundation in the concepts of policy, government and citizen needs, the BS in political science and its Bachelor of Arts counterpart differ in a few important ways. The Bachelor of Science prioritizes additional learning in statistics and science that directly applies to the development and analysis of policy. The Bachelor of Arts, on the other hand, includes a foreign language component, which can be especially valuable in international business and political pursuits.
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 classes
Key skills you can develop while pursuing your BS degree in political science include:
- Critical reasoning and argumentation.
- Effective and engaging writing.
- Information analysis.
- Targeted and productive research.
Experiential learning is also an option. You can choose to take on an internship in political science to build practical experience and earn course credit. Featured courses include:
POS 210: Political Ideologies (SB)
POS 301: Empirical Political Inquiry (SB)
POS 401: Political Statistics (CS)
POS 110: American Government and Politics (SB)
POS 150: Comparative Government (SB & G)
POS 160: Global Politics (SB & G)
What can I do with a Bachelor of Science in political science?
While political science includes a strong focus on the public sector, graduates 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:
Business Analyst
Data Analyst
Field Researcher
Human Behavior Researcher
Intelligence Officer
Marketing Manager
News Reporter
Political Analyst
Politician
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 BS in political science
freshman student
You are considered a freshman for application purposes if you have not attended college at all, or have fewer than 12 transferable credit hours (with a minimum 2.50 cumulative GPA).
Don't meet admission requirements?
You can still gain admission to 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 the Earned Admission Pathway is right for you.
Don't meet admission requirements?
You can still gain admission to 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 the Earned Admission Pathway is right for you.
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.
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