Masters in Political Science Programs
Consider a sponsored online MPA program currently accepting applications.
| University / School | Online Program | Admissions |
|---|---|---|
American University |
Online MPAP - Master of Public Administration and Policy
Top-ranked school for public affairs. NASPAA-accredited. Online MPA, MPAP, MPP. |
|
Johns Hopkins University AAP |
Master of Arts in Public Management
Areas of focus in Public Administration and Leadership and Public Policy Evaluation. |
|
Johns Hopkins University AAP |
Master of Arts in Government
100% online, part time option. |
Click to view all online MPA programs (and related) that are taking applications now for 2023.
Find Graduate Degrees in Political Science
There is a science to every professional branch. In politics, the analysis of the various branches as well as the relationships throughout is done by political science professionals. Political science touches on various branches of politics – through local, state, national and international levels. This branch of politics deals with more than simply the ins and outs of political activity – it deals with the schematics of political agencies and the relationships that exist within them.
A Political Science degree program is great for those that wish to seek careers working for local or government agencies or even those that wish to go farther into fields of law or economics. Online MPS programs in Political Science are a growing degree program to encourage students to get into a public or governmental career.
Consider a sponsored online MPA program currently accepting applications.
| University / School | Online Program | Admissions |
|---|---|---|
University of North Carolina |
Online Master of Public Administration (MPA)
Earn your MPA online in as few as 18 months. GRE waivers available to those with an advanced degree. Five concentrations. NASPAA-accredited. |
|
Syracuse University |
Executive Master of Public Administration (Executive MPA)
Earn an MPA for Executives from the #1-ranked Maxwell School. Complete in as few as 15 months. |
No GRE Required |
University of Texas Permian Basin |
Online Master of Public Administration
Complete in as little as 12 months, six start dates a year, cost-effective tuition. |
Click for online MPA programs that are currently taking applications.
Online Masters in Political Science
An online Master's degree in Political Science prepares learners for a proactive career in many fields of politics. By providing diverse analytical skills and skilled writing, students are taught through this program to be aggressive and knowledgeable professionals.
Politics is a very extensive subject that requires students to be up to date with current law and the constantly changing guidelines associated with them. Through the online learning environment, students will be introduced to continued learning and how important it is for a successful career. Political science teaches students how to properly analyze these sectors in order to be the most efficient professionals they can be. Students that are interested in pursuing a degree in political science will find that there is more to this degree program than the name implies.
Consider a Featured Online MPA Program
| University / School | Online Program | Admissions |
|---|---|---|
American University |
Online MPAP - Master of Public Administration and Policy
Top-ranked school for public affairs. NASPAA-accredited. Online MPA, MPAP, MPP. |
|
Johns Hopkins University AAP |
Master of Arts in Public Management
Areas of focus in Public Administration and Leadership and Public Policy Evaluation. |
|
Johns Hopkins University AAP |
Master of Arts in Government
100% online, part time option. |
|
University of Delaware |
Master of Public Administration
NASPAA accredited, 30-month online MPA. |
|
Aurora University |
Online MPA (one year)
100% online, affordable tuition. |
Typical Masters in Political Science Requirements
Typical online master’s programs in this field can be completed online, without having to attend in-person courses at all. Most master’s programs take around 2 years to complete, with some having the option for a quicker completion with denser scheduling. One university requires that students have at minimum a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university as well as a grade point average of 3.0 or above in order to be accepted.
Credit Hours and Projects to Expect
Different universities have different requirements, so students should research the school that is most suited for their situation. The online Master’s degree program in Political Science can consist of 30 to 60 hour programs, depending on the university. Through online learning, students are expected to be proactive in their studies and take part in online discussions and group projects. Students may take part in virtual debates as well as extensive research projects as part of the program. This degree option is great for busy professionals looking to better their lifestyles without having to sacrifice valuable free time.
Sample courses for a Masters in Political Science
Issues In Political Theory
Provides a survey of various issues and debates in political theory. This course provides issues and history of political philosophy as well as the design of political and social institutions.
Normative Theories of Justice
Reflects on work published within the last thirty years. This course teaches master’s level learners how to analyze cases with retributive and distributive justice.
Republicanism
Teaches master’s level students the history and development of republicanism and compares republicanism’s relationship with liberalism and democracy.
Judicial Institutions
Focuses on the study of law and the court systems. This course analyzes the relationship of the judge to the court system and the decision making process that is present in the judicial system.
Parties and Elections in Developing Countries
Explores the political growth of foreign countries. Analyzes party creation as well as the election process in countries that have weak parties and low democratic accountability.
Liberalism
Focuses on historical writings in liberal thought. This course outlines the growth of the current state as well as the development of market systems and national identities.
The Causes and Consequences of Terrorism
Outlines the politics of terrorism, both foreign and domestic. Beginning with the formal definition and ending with the consequences and after-effects of terrorism on the political system.
Nationalism
Teaches the theory and history of nationalism. Examines how international influences have had an effect on national politics.
United States Foreign Policy
Examines the historical and current relationships with Europe, East Asia and the Middle East. Touches of subjects ranging from military and economic policy to environmental issues.
Politics and Religion
Examines how politics have been supported, changed and challenged by religion. This course compares the effects of religion over time and also mentions European influence in the United States.
What Can You Do with a Masters in Political Science?
With a Master’s degree in Political Science, graduates find that there are numerous opportunities throughout the professional world. Political science degrees prepare graduates for competitive political positions and even positions at government agencies.
Law Career
This degree program can even provide a foundation for a future in law, which requires students to research local law school requirements.
Political Science Professor
Various employment opportunities can be found dealing with public interest in the political domain. Lobbyists are sometimes political science graduates as well as college level professors. Effective debate skills that are learned through the political science program prepare upcoming professionals for careers in public administration.
Government and Politics
The Federal Government seeks out professional political scientists to fill open positions as lobbyists, policy analysts and even congressional positions. Joining an organization such as the American Political Science Association can further knowledge and possibly career opportunities for professionals in this field. Continued learning is an important part of staying up to date with current trends and issues in the political environment. Political science professionals benefit from organizations such as this one throughout an entire career.
Political Science Average Salary
The average salary for political scientists in the U.S. is $99,730 annually (BLS, 2015). In terms of assignment, the salary for individuals in this profession can vary greatly. One of the top paying career options for those graduating with a Master’s degree in Political Science is Congressperson. Political science majors working for governmental agencies have the potential to earn $120,510 per year during the course of a career.
Law Salaries
For individuals that decide to pursue a law degree after a political science degree, salaries can be potentially higher at $115,820 per year on average (BLS, 2015). Having a degree that deals with the science of politics can lead individuals in many different directions. The financial opportunities available are diverse and can provide well for those willing to put in the hard work required.
