Best Online Master's Degrees in Political Science

Study.com has looked through numerous political science departments from colleges and universities across the country and have arrived at our definitive list of the eight best online master's degrees in political science. This list is based on authoritative data from sources such as the United States Department of Education and the National Center for Education Statistics, taking note of factors such as the affordability of tuition, convenience and access for online students, course offerings, specialized concentrations, and academic resources. The eight programs included in this list provide the best options for prospective students interested in pursuing an advanced degree in political science, but who require the flexibility and convenience of an online curriculum. If that sounds like you, take a look through this list and begin your master's degree search today!

1. Sam Houston State University

Tuition	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Placement Services	Career Services	Accepts
$8,536	83%	54%	86%	Yes	Yes	AP Credits

Sam Houston State University offers a Master of Arts degree in political science that is targeted towards both recent graduates of undergraduate programs and adult professionals looking to return to school. Sam Houston State's political science master's degree is offered entirely online, providing a convenient educational opportunity for professionals. Online courses in this program are designed to emphasize small class sizes, close contact with professors, and comprehensive academic support, despite the remote learning environment. Affordability is also emphasized here - the school offers competitive scholarships totaling up to $1,000 to online political science master's students.

2. University of Illinois at Springfield

Tuition	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Placement Services	Career Services	Accepts
$11,928	77%	54%	96%	Yes	Yes	AP / NCCRS Credits

The University of Illinois at Springfield is another choice for prospective political science graduate students, boasting a Master of Arts in Politics Science degree that can be attained through completely online coursework. This pioneering school allows its online political science students to take both synchronous courses (i.e., courses held at set times) and asynchronous courses (i.e., those that can be taken any time at a student's leisure, via the use of collaborative online programs and online discussions). Online students have access to the same professors and academic resources as graduate students studying on-campus.

3. University of Nebraska at Omaha

Tuition	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Placement Services	Career Services	Accepts
$7,980	83%	50%	85%	Yes	Yes	AP / NCCRS Credits

The College of Arts and Sciences at the University of Nebraska at Omaha features one of the country's top online Master of Science in Political Science degree programs. This program is notable for offering two distinct tracks for students: a thesis track (where students will culminate their studies with a comprehensive thesis project on a chosen topic) and a non-thesis track (where students will have a greater degree of flexibility in pursuing different courses and study options within the field of political science). The M.S. program also offers online students a variety of concentrations and additional study options during the course of their program, including concentrations in International Affairs and American Government, and certificates in Government and Intelligence & National Security.

4. Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

Tuition	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Placement Services	Career Services	Accepts
$13,691	70%	86%	65%	Yes	Yes	AP Credits

Through its innovative VTOnline program, the Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University offers an online Master of Arts in Political Science degree with the exact same academic requirements, courses, and instructors as the award-winning program offered at the school's main campus in Blacksburg, Virginia. Virginia Tech's online M.A. in Political Science is notable for its convenient, asynchronous structure, meaning that remote-learning students can mold their course schedule to fit their needs via internet-based courses and collaborative discussions and coursework. Academically, Virginia Tech's Political Science program is particularly strong in subfields such as American government, international politics, and global security, and provides a firm education in crucial social science research methodologies.

5. Georgia State University

Tuition	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Placement Services	Career Services	Accepts
$9,286	76%	55%	93%	Yes	Yes	AP Credits

Atlanta's Georgia State University offers an array of Master of Arts degrees in political science, which can all be taken at least partially online. The school's main Master of Arts in Political Science boasts four unique concentrations-General Political Science, American Politics, International & Comparative Politics, and Public Law-and offers a wide variety of courses that can be taken online. In addition to this esteemed degree program, Georgia State also offers a Master of Arts in Political Science for K-12 Educators and a Master of Arts in Professional Politics, both of which are offered in a hybrid online/on-campus format. Online graduate students in any of these programs can take advantage of the school's close relationship with the Georgia Municipal Association, which affords students ample opportunities for research projects, internships, and consulting work with a wide variety of local government offices during their degree programs.

6. Eastern Illinois University

Tuition	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Placement Services	Career Services	Accepts
$11,804	53%	53%	95%	No	Yes	AP / NCCRS Credits

The Department of Political Science at Eastern Illinois University has an online Master of Arts in Political Science, with a focus on the specialized field of Public Policy & Public Administration. This degree does a great job emphasizing practical and professional skills in government, budget, policy, management, and research. As an online degree, Eastern Illinois's M.A. We also noted its flexibility, with students having the option of completing their studies in one year full-time (two semesters, plus summer courses), or two years part-time. Though the program is fully online, M.A. students who live in proximity to Eastern Illinois's main campus in Charleston may also be eligible for specific opportunities, such as graduate assistantships, academic support, and internships.

7. The University of West Florida

Tuition	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Placement Services	Career Services	Accepts
$5,776	31%	46%	90%	Yes	Yes	AP Credits

The University of West Florida in Pensacola offers an online Master of Arts in Political Science degree program through its Reubin O'D. Askew Department of Government. The University of West Florida has developed a program for online political science students that features real-time lectures via the university's video conferencing technology and flexible scheduling for a variety of student needs. The program offers students both a thesis and non-thesis track, with the former allowing students with a particular interest to complete an intensive, in-depth research project on that topic and the latter allowing students with broader interests in the field to pursue a variety of elective courses of their choosing. The University of West Florida's Political Science M.A. is also noted for its affordability, with tuition costing only $384.60 per credit hour.

8. Liberty University

Tuition	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Placement Services	Career Services	Accepts
$16,118	51%	47%	99%	Yes	Yes	AP / NCCRS Credits

LU Online-the online program offered by Liberty University of Lynchburg, Virginia-has a Master of Science degree in the field of political science based around convenient eight-week courses. Liberty University is acclaimed for the convenience it affords its students; up to 50% of the degree's credits can be transferred in, and the entire program can be completed in as few as 18 months. Liberty's political science program gives students a complete education in both domestic and international political issues, allowing online students to receive excellent preparation for future careers in government, politics, and related fields.

To get a more in-depth look at our school ranking methodology, please visit Study.com's ranking methodology page.

Tuition information is based on published tuition and required fees, per data by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES).

Students interested in learning about how politics affect the world around us and how to research and analyze these events might be a good fit for an online master's in political science degree. Politics, especially policy and analysis, can be lucrative, but it is also competitive. Highly motivated students with a drive to make connections in the political world would likely do well pursuing a master's in political science and subsequent career in the field. Studying online provides a lot of flexibility in terms of study place and time, which may be an attractive option for students from a variety of backgrounds and personal circumstances.

How Long Does It Take to Earn an Online Master's in Political Science?

Master's degree programs in political science generally consist of 30-36 credit hours. Programs can be completed in around 2 years or less. The time involved in degree completion includes foundational courses, along with a thesis or final project. Students will need to devote time each week to readings, participation in discussions, and written assignments. Because this work is online, it can generally be completed at any time during the window allotted for the assignment or unit.

Curriculum for online master's degrees in political science are generally delivered 100% online with no in-person component required. Students might participate by way of discussion boards and/or video or phone calls and will likely submit assignments through an online platform such as Blackboard or Canvas. Classes will cover foundational topics that provide an introduction to various aspects of the field, while electives focus on specialized issues and topics. Students may have the option to produce an original piece of research through the completion of a thesis.

Political Science Foundational Courses

Because political science is a wide and complex field, foundational courses for master's degrees seek to give students an overview of the main areas of study. Curricula will cover politics and political systems both at home and abroad, major theories, and teach important skills, such as how to read and interpret scholarly journals and research, collect and analyze data, and write reports synthesizing that analysis. Some popular core classes include:

• Research methods
• Comparative politics
• Political theory
• American politics
• International politics

Students may also choose from a thesis or non-thesis track or a capstone final project. Those who choose to write a thesis generally take fewer theory classes than those who opt-out of the thesis.

Political Science Specialist and Elective Courses

Depending on which university program students choose, they may be able to follow a structured concentration or pick free electives according to interest. Concentrations may be best for those with a defined study and career path, while electives may be preferred for general studies or to build personalized specializations. Set concentrations are available in areas like:

• Public policy
• International relations

For programs without concentrations, there are generally a wide range of electives to choose from, such as:

• Politics of the developing world
• Political violence
• Women in politics

Licensure and Certification in Political Science

Political scientists or political legal analysts who wish to get certified can apply through the Academy of Certified Political Analysts. Interested applicants must have a degree in political science from an accredited university with a minimum of a 2.5 GPA. They must also have two years of experience in politics, government, or public service and agree to the ethics of the organization. They offer four certifications aimed at campaign managers, political journalists, analysts, and political scientists.

Those wishing to teach in public secondary school settings must be state-certified to teach in the state that they would like to work in. This requires completion of a bachelor's in education, master's in education initial licensure program, or teacher preparation program. Requirements for licensure vary by state, so interested individuals are encouraged to contact their state board of education.

Competitiveness for admissions largely depends on each university, and some may have more requirements than others. Most ask for at least a 3.0 undergraduate GPA from an accredited university and official transcripts from bachelor's and any other graduate-level study. Universities will generally accept transcripts mailed as paper copies or ordered in digital form to be delivered by email. In addition to an online application, prospective students may be required to submit the following:

• Application fee
• Professional and/or academic references
• CV or resume
• Statement of goals or purpose

Students whose first language is not English may be required to submit official language exam results to prove proficiency.

Students considering undertaking an online master's may be wondering, ''what can I do with a political science degree?'' Fortunately, the answer to that is many things. Political science master's graduates may go on to become:

• Campaign managers
• Political consultants
• Political scientists
• Political analysts
• High school political science teachers
• Community college political science lecturers

These types of jobs often require long hours and may include time spent working on the weekends as well. Campaign managers and consultants may spend a portion of their days, weeks, or months on the road meeting with stakeholders, organizations, or donors. Individuals working in politics must be organized, driven, and able to meet and speak to a diverse range of people.

Job Outlook for a Master's in Political Science

Politics are all around us, so the need for individuals to monitor, analyze, and explain these events is ever-present. Employment for political scientists is expected to grow by 6% over the ten-year period between 2019-2029, per data published by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). However, because of the small size of the field, this will only add 400 jobs. So while growth is projected, competition is likely to be strong for these positions. This is not the only job title, however, and many organizations can typically use the skills individuals with a master's in political science possess. The average salary of a political science major at the master's level can vary by position.

Outside of direct participation in politics, positions for political science teachers at the postsecondary level are expected to increase by 5% between 2019-2029. This will add an estimated 1,000 jobs to the market, according to the BLS.

How to Become a Political Scientist

Political scientists research, analyze, and synthesize information regarding events occurring in the national and international arenas. They forecast trends related to policies and present findings to various stakeholders. Political scientists may also be involved in developing and testing new political theories.

At a minimum, individuals interested in a career as a political scientist need a master's degree. Students undertaking a master's in political science may wish to specialize in a world region or specific type of policy. This could potentially make them more marketable for jobs whose focus is narrower. Because of the competitive nature of the field, students are encouraged to apply for internships or other opportunities to gain experience in the field.

Political scientists earn a high salary. As of May 2019, the BLS estimated that the annual median income for political scientists was $122,220. For those in the highest 10% of earners, their salary was more than $164,210 a year.

How to Become a Campaign Manager

Campaign managers oversee all aspects of a political candidate's campaign for office. They may work for politicians involved in local, state, or national government. Campaign managers organize a candidate's daily schedule and may speak on behalf of them at briefings or during media events. They also manage to fundraise and coordinate with outside donors.

While there is no minimum level of education or specific major needed to become a political campaign manager, many have a degree in political science. A master's degree will provide professionals in this field with specialized knowledge to use on the job. Campaign managers generally start in other entry-level positions as political staffers or campaign volunteers before gaining experience and making connections within the political world.

Salaries vary for campaign managers, and pay is likely affected by the type of government their candidate is involved in, as well as years of experience. The BLS estimates that fundraising managers made a median annual wage of $116,180 as of May 2019. According to PayScale.com data from January 2021, campaign managers made a median annual salary of $60,033 a year.

Networking is a big part of working in politics, so students and those working in the field may benefit from joining a political science professional organization. Membership in these groups is a way to connect with others in the political science world. This can include finding a mentor or mentee, linking with others for job opportunities, or sharing resources or best practices with experienced professionals. Although certain groups may offer benefits unique to them, prospective members can generally enjoy the following perks after joining a professional organization:

• Reduced fees for conferences, workshops, and/or trainings
• Continuing education opportunities
• Access to journals, research, or other scholarly materials
• Grants, scholarships, and fellowships
• Involvement in advocacy and policy

There are many professional organizations in existence related to political science, and individuals are not limited to participation in just one. Some of these include:

• International Political Science Association (IPSA)
• American Political Science Association (APSA)
• International Association for Political Science Students (IAPSS)
• Association for Public Policy Analysis and Management (APPAM)

Political science master's degree programs admit a wide range of students from a variety of undergraduate backgrounds. While candidates from every major are welcome to apply, the most common undergraduate degrees seen by admissions boards include political science, history, economics, sociology, journalism, psychology, communications, and English. Some programs may prefer a minimum amount of credit hours in political science, although many allow students to enter study at more or less baseline. To be more competitive for graduate admissions, bachelor's students may want to pursue internships or volunteer opportunities within politics or political science.

Students who complete a master's degree in political science and want to continue their pursuit of knowledge and training may want to undertake doctoral study. Doctoral degrees in political science are awarded as a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD). Political science PhD programs take between 4-6 years. Completely online PhDs in this field are not typically offered, although depending on the university, some distance learning opportunities may be available. During a PhD program, students take theory classes followed by research and analysis of a topic of their choice, which will lead to the dissertation.

Loans, scholarships, and grants are available to students enrolled in online master's in political science programs. Loans are offered by the U.S. federal government and are available to both undergraduate and graduate students. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) can be completed online and requires students to enter personal and financial information. Award amounts are based on income and if applicable, family financial contribution. Federal financial aid must be repaid on a monthly basis six months after graduation.

Political science master's students may also wish to pursue scholarship opportunities. Universities may offer scholarships to admitted students. To qualify, students might be required to submit an application, or, they may be considered automatically after applying. Grants are also available. Unlike loans, which need to be repaid, grants are ''free'' money awarded to students who can demonstrate financial need. They can be offered through public or private organizations. The American Political Science Association offers several grants, fellowships, and other sources of funding to undergraduate, graduate, and post-doctoral students.