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Political Science


Political science is the study of society and the politics that govern everything, from social behaviors to the development and workings of political systems. Political scientists help governments make decisions and policies and properly exert their authority as well as find solutions to societal and governmental problems.

Political scientists also study the interaction of the United States with other countries, as well as the conclusions of the U.S. Supreme Court and how its decisions affect American life.

Education & Career Opportunities in Political Science

People who earn degrees in political science usually end up working as market or policy analysts for the government or non-profit oversight groups. Others work as researchers or writers, interpreting governmental policies.

There are relatively few entry-level positions available to people who hold bachelor's degrees in political science; most jobs in the field require advanced degrees and several years of work experience. Since the field requires a great deal of gathering and analyzing data, political scientists must excel in statistics and math.

Political science is a good-paying field--the median annual salary was $104,090 in 2009. Many political science graduates also work as teachers--those who do earned median annual salaries $68,790, with the top professors taking home more than $128,000 annually. Market research analysts earned average annual salaries of $61,580, while the highest wage earners could earn more than $111,900 per year.



Kaplan University
Kaplan University Advance your career and get the distinct competitive advantage you need with an online degree from Kaplan University. And do it without missing a day of work.

  • BS in Political Science
  • BS in Liberal Studies
Ashford University
Ashford University Earn the degree you've always wanted at Ashford University. Achieve your goals with the resources you need, including an innovative online classroom and a supportive environment. Your education at Ashford University is a shared experience that unites you with students and faculty around the world. Ashford University is defining the modern college experience.

  • BA/Organizational Management - Political Science
  • BA/Social and Criminal Justice - Political Science and Government
  • BA/Political Science & Government
  • BA/Social Science - Political Science
  • MA/Education - Education and Public Policy
Walden University
Walden University Balance your personal and professional commitments while earning a respected Ph.D., master's degree, or bachelor's degree online at Walden University. Programs offered in management, education, psychology and health and human services.

  • Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration - Course-based - Local Government Management for Sustainab
  • Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration - Mixed-Model - Homeland Security Policy and Coordination
  • M.S. in Criminal Justice Leadership & Executive Management - Law and Public Policy
  • Master of Public Policy - Health Policy
  • Master of Public Administration - Policy Analysis
University of Phoenix
University of Phoenix As the largest private university in North America, University of Phoenix has more than 200 locations, and is available online in most countries around the world. Whether you're seeking a college degree at an associate's, bachelor's, master's, or doctoral level, we can help you reach your academic goal—and sooner than you might think.

  • B.S. in Liberal Studies
  • A.A. in General Studies
Capella University
Capella University

Capella is an accredited, online university where you'll experience unparalleled support, join a community of accomplished professionals, and be challenged with rigorous academics. Learn more about our online doctoral, master’s, MBA, undergraduate, and certificate programs by answer a short form.



  • MS - Social and Behavioral Sciences
Colorado Technical University Online
Colorado Technical University Online Take your career to new heights with Colorado Tech Online! Since 1965, Colorado Technical University has helped thousands of students achieve success in business, management and technology careers. Learn more today.

  • Associate of Science in General Studies
Grand Canyon University
Grand Canyon University

Earn your degree online with Grand Canyon University. We offer approximately 100 bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degree programs that can be completed 100% online. Degree programs are available in the fields of education, nursing and health sciences, business, fine arts and production, and liberal arts.



  • B.A. in History
Northcentral University
Northcentral University

Earn your degree online and boost your career at Northcentral University. We offer online doctoral, master's, and bachelor's degree programs in education, behavioral and health sciences, and business.



  • Gender Diversity Studies - PhD of Psychology
  • Gender Diversity Studies - MA in Psychology
Baker College Online
Baker College Online Baker College Online is fully accredited and offers over 40 programs that will help you earn your Certificate, Associate, Bachelor, Master's or Doctorate degree affordably. Learn more now.

  • Bachelor of General Studies