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Bachelor's in Political Science Degree

Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)

A degree that paves the way to a career in politics, law, public policy, journalism, or dozens of other fields.

As a Political Science major, you'll explore political systems around the globe. You'll reach a deeper understanding of our own democratic processes and the relationship between citizens and states. You'll build analytic, communication and leadership skills that make you a valuable candidate for jobs.

Program type:
Major
Format:
On Campus or Online
Est. time to complete:
4 years
Credit hours:
120
  • Requirements
  • Tuition & Aid
  • How to Apply

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Why earn a Political Science degree?

Application Deadlines
Fall:
Aug. 15
Spring:
Dec. 15
Summer:
May 1

 

If you're an international student, refer to the international application process for deadlines.


When you study political science, you gain keen insights into the social and economic forces that affect governments around the world. You'll take classes in public policy, international relations, comparative politics and similar topics. You'll round out your education with a spectrum of liberal arts courses that foster critical and independent thinking. The curriculum is flexible, allowing you to tailor your education to match your career goals. Depending on the electives you take, you can focus on pre-law, international relations, legislative politics or public policy.

With an emphasis on hands-on learning, Political Science degree students are encouraged to take internships. In the past, they've worked with:

  • North Dakota and Minnesota Congressional delegations
  • Federal, state and local government agencies
  • Law firms
  • Judges

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Accelerated Political Science Degree Programs

Accelerated M.P.A. Program

If you're majoring in Political Science or Public Affairs, you can earn a Master's in Public Administration (M.P.A.) in just one extra year with UND's accelerated degree program. The accelerated M.P.A. program is available online or on-campus.

Accelerated 3+3 Law Degree

Shave off a year of law school while earning your Political Science bachelor's degree. With the Law (Accelerated Bachelor's/J.D.) program you can double count credits your fourth year to go towards beginning coursework for a law degree. Learn more by contacting Benjamin Kassow, Political Science Pre-Law Coordinator.

On-Campus or Online Political Science Degree

  • Tap into insights from U.S. senators, members of Congress, judges and others at the annual Frank Wenstrom Lecture.

  • Network and build knowledge through Pi Sigma Alpha, UND's political science honor society.

  • Travel to conferences and test your skills through UND's Model UN program. At least 25% of Political Science majors travel to undergraduate conferences or other academic events.

  • Experience small classes, where you will know your professors and your professors will know you.

  • Receive personalized career support through the Pancratz Career Development Center. The center is dedicated exclusively to career development for online and on-campus Nistler College of Business & Public Administration students.

  • Learn in the new Nistler Hall. It’s a modern and inviting building for UND's business and public administration students.

What can you do with a Political Science degree?

78k

Median annual salary for social and community service managers, 2024

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

#13

Number of UND Political Science grads who have won Truman Scholarships to attend graduate school

Political science occupations are projected to grow as government agencies and social science organizations increasingly seek public policy research, analysis, and expertise. With a degree from UND, you can begin work in U.S. politics, further your studies in law school or expand your reach in international affairs.

As a Political Science major, you can join a long list of alumni who have gone into public service. Or, pursue a host of other careers, including:

  • Attorney
  • Grant Writer
  • Human Rights Advocate
  • Intelligence Analyst
  • Journalist
  • Lobbyist
  • Social or Community Service Manager
  • Teacher or Professor

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Political Science Degree Skills

A Political Science degree gives you the strategic skills you need, including:

  • Event and Project Management
  • Legal Research
  • Policy Analysis and Development
  • Public Administration
  • Strategic Planning

Jobs with a Political Science Degree

Our Political Science degree holders have gone on to a variety of successful careers with:

  • Associated Press
  • Brookings Institution
  • Peace Corps
  • North Dakota States Attorney Office
  • North Dakota Office of Labor and Human Rights
  • United States Department of the Army

Political Science Degree Courses

POLS 115. American Government I. 3 Credits.

An introduction to political science through the study of the American political system: The Constitution; the political processes; the structure, powers and procedures of the Presidency, Congress, and the Judiciary. F,S.

POLS 305. American Constitution-Governmental Powers. 3 Credits.

American Constitution studied in light of U.S. Supreme Court decisions and interpretations; focus on government powers, federal relationships, and economic regulation. F.

POLS 220. International Politics. 3 Credits.

An introduction to international politics with emphasis on the international system, the major actors, the struggle for power, and the struggle for order. S.

POLS 310. Introduction to Political Thought. 3 Credits.

Political thought from classical times to the 19th century with emphasis on issues raised in the works of Plato, Aristotle, St. Agustine, Machiavelli, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau, Mill, Marx and Nietzsche. F.

POLS 532. Public Policy. 3 Credits.

A discussion of the initiation, formulation, adoption, implementation, and evaluation of American public policy. Various policy areas such as agriculture, education, environment, and welfare will be analyzed.

POLS 225. Comparative Politics. 3 Credits.

An introduction to comparative politics with emphasis on the democratic systems of Europe. F.

UND Political Science BA

Best Political Science Degree

Our Political Science degree consistently ranks among the best for educational quality, affordability, and career outcomes.

#6 BEST POLITICAL SCIENCE DEGREE

Online Political Science Degree

#1

best online college in North Dakota

Forbes

160+

online programs

UND's Political Science bachelor's degree is 100% online. You are never required to come to campus. Plus, our online political science students receive the same affordable tuition regardless of their residency. Compare UND and you'll find we have the best public online Political Science degree in the nation for affordability and career outcomes.

Flexible Online Degree in Political Science

With asynchronous classes, you do not attend class at a set time. If you need to balance work, family and other commitments, this flexible format allows you to learn anywhere at any time.

Depending on your instructor, you’ll learn online through:

  • Lesson modules
  • Streaming video content
  • Virtual libraries
  • Posted lectures
  • Online simulations

There will be times when you interact with your instructor and classmates through online discussion boards, polls and chat rooms.

Your learning revolves around materials that can be accessed on your own time within a set time frame. However, this is not a self-paced course. You’ll have structure and deadlines.

Top-Tier Online Bachelor's in Political Science

Over a third of UND's student population is exclusively online; plus, more take a combination of online and on-campus classes. You can feel reassured knowing you won't be alone in your online learning journey, and you'll have resources and services tailored to your needs.

No matter how you customize your online experience, you’ll get the same top-quality education as any other on campus student.

  • Same degree: All online programs are fully accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Your transcript and diploma are exactly the same as our on-campus students.
  • Same classes: You’ll take courses from UND professors, start and end the semesters at the same time and take the same classes as a student on campus.
  • Real interaction: You can ask questions, get feedback and regularly connect with your professors, peers and professionals in the field.
  • Your own academic advisor: As an invaluable go-to, they’re focused on you, your personal success and your future career.
  • Free online tutoring: We're here to help you one-on-one at no cost. Plus, get access to a variety of self-help online study resources.
  • Unlimited academic coaching: Need support to achieve your academic goals or feeling stumped by a tough course? We'll help with everything from stress and time management to improving your memory to achieve higher test scores.
  • Full online access: Dig into virtual research at UND's libraries. Improve your writing skills with online help from the UND Writing Center. Get online access to career services, veteran and military services, financial services and more.
  • 24/7 technical support: UND provides free computer, email and other technical support for all online students.
  • Networking opportunities: Our significant online student population means you’ll have a large pool of peers to connect with. UND has numerous online events and activities to keep you connected.

Best Online College

Our high alumni salaries and job placement rates, with affordable online tuition rates make UND a best-value university for online education. UND's breadth of online programs rivals all other nonprofit universities in the Upper Midwest making UND one of the best online schools in the region.

UND ranks among the best online colleges in the nation for:

  • Affordability
  • Student satisfaction (retention rate)
  • Academic quality (4-year graduate rate)
  • Student outcomes (20-year return on investment per Payscale.com)

Military Friendly® School

Top Military Friendly School Badge Gold

UND is a top college for military affiliates. In fact, 1 in 7 students are veterans, active duty, spouses, or military dependents. 

  • Dedicated Support Services: You’ll have access to the Veteran & Military Services office, where you can get personalized help with VA benefits, advising, scholarships, and counseling resources.
  • Military Affiliated Peer Support (MAPS): At UND, you’ll find peer student support staff ready to guide you, offer encouragement, and connect you with the resources you need to achieve your academic and personal goals.
  • ROTC Programs: If you’re looking to grow as a leader, UND’s Army and Air Force ROTC programs provide you with hands-on leadership training and the opportunity to build lasting camaraderie.
  • Priority Registration: Individuals using VA funding benefit from priority course registration, ensuring you can build a schedule that fits your other commitments.
  • Spouse Support: UND is ranked in the Top 10 Military Spouse Friendly Schools, reflecting our strong support for spouses through flexible degree programs, advising and a welcoming campus culture.

FAQs

Among the most lucrative positions in the political realm are those of high-level government officials, diplomats and specific roles in international organizations. However, salaries can vary widely based on factors such as experience, level of responsibility and the organization or government agency.

Yes! Political science majors are in demand, with the employment of these professionals projected to grow by 7% from 2022 to 2032.

While political scientists typically require a master's degree for advanced roles, graduates with a bachelor's in political science can still secure entry-level positions. The lowest 10% of political science degree holders make around $65,200 annually. In comparison, the highest 10% can earn over $176,280.

Of course! A bachelor's in Political Science, especially the one from UND, is worth it. UND is recognized for high alumni salaries and job placement rates, offering affordable online tuition rates. The university is a best-value option for online education, consistently ranking among the top online colleges in the nation for affordability, student satisfaction, academic quality and student outcomes.

Yes, online degrees in political science from reputable institutions like UND are respected by employers. UND's online programs are highly regarded and the University's commitment to quality education ensures that online degrees hold value in the job market.

Yes, financial aid is available for online political science degrees at UND. Each year, 77% of undergraduate students receive financial aid, with an average annual assistance of $13,500. UND awards over $100 million in financial aid, offering scholarships, grants and loans to help students manage their college costs. Additionally, the Nistler College of Business & Public Administration provides approximately $1.3 million in annual scholarships to further support students.

Leader in Political Science

Cheyden Paulson speaks four languages and is the recipient of a prestigious federal scholarship. He's aiming for a career in the U.S. Foreign Service.

Read Cheyden's story

 

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