Designed for working professionals looking to start or advance their career in political science by gaining expertise in areas related to policy, politics and governments in the United States as well as around the world.
Public policy. Political parties. Presidential campaigns. Voting behaviors. Civil rights issues. Global relations. Taxes. Diplomacy. Governance. Cultivate your understanding of these concepts, as well as key political and government principles, and more with an online bachelor’s in political science.
Learn how these areas impact our society, government, education system, workplaces and communities – then prepare to leave your mark in the field of political science.
US News & World Reportrecognition
The online Bachelor of Arts in Political Science (BAPOLS) is offered by the College of Arts & Sciences at the University of Louisville. For over a decade, UofL Online bachelor’s degree programs have been consistently recognized as "Best in the Nation" and "Best for Veterans,"by US News & World Report, reflecting the university’s focus on academic excellence and student support.
With an emphasis on research, data collection, critical analysis and clear communication in writing and speaking, BAPOLS graduates will be prepared for a variety of careers in the public, private and non-profit sectors, as well as ready to pursue advanced education. UofL Online graduates go on to make an impact through roles in government organizations, political campaigns, the nonprofit sector, law, public policy, academics and business, both in the U.S. and abroad.
Online BA in Political Science degree highlights
Explore how issues related to power, conflict and justice within our political systems, policies, government and society impact future change.
Study theories of government and the development of political systems along with the role of groups and individuals within the political process.
Earn a highly marketable and sought-after degree in as little as two years with transfer credits—on your time and schedule with 100% online classes.
Complete coursework in the four major subfields of political science (American politics, comparative politics, international relations and political theory) and take supporting courses in specific topics like campaigns and elections, the Presidency and Congress, social movements and civil rights, terrorism and war, constitutional law, environmental policy, religious politics, urban politics and international politics.
Learn from distinguished university faculty with notable academic credentials, political science experience and a commitment to applied research.
Build a strong foundation for pursuing advanced political science education, law degrees or other impact-driven opportunities.
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You'll be in great company!
Join our award-winning BA in Political Science program, growing talent and developing future change-makers, with students and alumni including: one Pulitzer Prize winner, 43 Fulbright Scholars, nine Critical Language Scholars, nine Boren Scholars and many more.
Claim your own prize by finding your fit and future career in political science at UofL Online. Get started today.
Check out the typical application deadlines for the undergraduate online Political Science degree at UofL and prepare your application packet according to the requirements outlined below.
Application Deadlines
Preferred Deadline
Term
Start Date
July 1
Fall
August
December 1
Spring
January
April 1
Summer
May/June
Note: We admit students on a rolling basis. The preferred deadlines help you complete the application process on time, be notified of acceptance and enroll before the term begins. We review applications as they become complete, and admit students for a specific term up to the day classes start. We recommend you work on and submit your complete application well in advance of the preferred deadline, as obtaining transcripts and other materials may take more time.
How to apply for the Online BA in Political Science
Verify your identity - provide ID/documentation as requested
Complete any checklist items listed on your Application Portal*
Request official transcripts from all previously attended institutions. Transcripts are only accepted directly from the institution(s) by email: adetran@louisville.edu (recommended) or mail: University of Louisville, Office of Admissions, Dept AO, Louisville, KY 40292
What admissions requirements are for the Online BA in Political Science
New students and transfer students with less than 24 transferable credits from accredited institutions must have:
High school diploma from an accredited institution (GED or equivalent also accepted)
Minimum high school GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale; AND for transfer students, a minimum college GPA of 2.0 (applicants who do not meet the minimum GPA may inquire about conditional acceptance)
Composite ACT* score of 21 or higher (test optional admission is granted on a case-by-case basis)
Transfer students with 24 or more transferable credits from accredited institutions must have:
Minimum college GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale (applicants who do not meet the minimum GPA may inquire about conditional acceptance)
*Your Application Portal:
Once you have started an undergraduate application, you can check the status and review any additional checklist to-do items. Log in to your application using the email address you used to apply for admission and your password. Your checklist items may include additional materials or documentation that facilitate a smooth admissions process. You will also have access to important contact information and next steps after an admissions decision is made.
No ACT/SAT? Test-optional admissions are granted on a case-by-case basis and require a comprehensive review of high school transcript, including grades and college-preparatory courses. A personal statement may be requested during the admissions review process.
Transfer credit
Students may transfer up to 60 hours from a community college and up to 90 hours from an accredited four-year college. Transfer applicants must have a minimum college GPA of 2.0 to be admitted in good standing. Review the Transfer Evaluation System to get an idea of how many credits you'll be able to transfer in toward your UofL bachelor's degree, and visit our General Transfer Student Page for more details.
Are you a KCTCS student? KCTCS students can transfer completed associate degrees in their entirety and begin immediately with online upper level coursework at UofL. Visit our KCTCS Transfers Page for more information.
Online BA in Political Science for international students
The political science undergraduate online program is open to international students. If you live outside of the United States and intend to complete an online academic program from your home country, be sure to review these additional admission requirements for international students.
International students will not be issued a U.S. visa, since there are no campus attendance requirements. All courses in the program are taught 100% online, allowing you to attain the entire degree from the comfort of your home and at any time convenient for you, regardless of your current location, anywhere in the world.
For more information on the application and admission process, please contact our online enrollment counselors team through an information request.
How much it costs to earn an Online BAPOLS at UofL
Academic year tuition
$559 per credit hour $250 per credit hour active-duty tuition rate
This program is a Title IV federal financial aid eligible program. Tuition rate does not include costs associated with a specific course or program, such as textbooks.
Please note that other fees apply – check our tuition page for all applicable costs.
Tuition, fees and charges are subject to change and effective on the date enacted. For additional information on educational expenses and the cost of attendance, please visit the Student Financial Aid Office website.
Many employers often have programs available to assist their employees financially in their educational pursuits. Do not miss out on any potential opportunities. Reach out to your organization’s HR department to learn about available options.
What you learn in the Online Bachelor of Arts in Political Science
The online Bachelor of Arts in Political Science is a 121-credit hour program, offered 100% online. Courses are delivered asynchronously, in standard term length. UofL’s curriculum builds a strong foundation in American government, comparative politics and international relations while strengthening analytical, research and communication skills.
Online Courses
Coursework emphasizes political institutions, public policy, global systems and data-informed inquiry, giving students the tools to evaluate complex issues, interpret evidence and construct persuasive arguments. Advanced courses integrate theory and applied research, ensuring students can move from understanding political systems to analyzing how they function in real-world contexts.
Curriculum Components
General Education (Cardinal Core) requirements: 31 credit hours
Arts & Sciences requirements: 22 credit hours
Department of Political Science requirements: 15 credit hours
Track requirements: 53 credit hours
To see all available online courses and degree requirements, please visit UofL's Academic Catalog page (select Degree Requirements tab).
What can I do with a bachelor’s in political science?
Earning a degree in political science paves the way for graduates to pursue a variety of roles that go well beyond government and politics, while also developing critical thinking, research, writing and analytical skills. No matter what area of political science you study, the critical skills you develop in research, analysis and communications can help you succeed both inside and outside the political arena.
University of Louisville’s political science graduates have been extremely successful in earning prestigious scholarships and fellowships, including numerous Fulbright Award winners and multiple Truman Scholars. Many graduates go on to have impactful careers – both in the U.S. and abroad – in the following fields:
Local, state and federal government agencies
Election and political campaigns
International affairs
Economic development offices
Non-governmental organizations
Nonprofit organizations
Regulatory agencies
Law/legal organizations
Public policy
Business
Academia
Media
According to Lightcast occupation outlook data, jobs in the political science field are projected to grow, on average, 8% between 2025-2033, with 166,314 annual job postings. The median salary for political science-related jobs is nearly $80,800 (Lightcast.io). Career opportunities and earnings vary based on actual job role, geographic location, prior experience and employer. These figures reflect overall industry trends and are not a guarantee of individual results.
Students who want to explore their career options with a bachelor's degree in political science can reach out to the UofL Career Development Center, which supports students from their freshman year to their senior year and beyond with career assessments, advising, job and internship postings, resume and interview help, special events and more.
Take the step today to pave the way for your career future in political science.
At UofL, we know online students need robust, proactive support and we built this program to deliver exactly that at every step of the way. From your first question through graduation, you’ll be informed, guided and cheered on by a dedicated team invested in your success.
Enrollment counselors, program leadership staff, academic advisors and faculty work together to support you at every stage throughout your journey. At UofL, you are never navigating the online degree experience alone.
The questions and answers below help you learn more about our program, delivery method, application and admission process, financial aid options and how to succeed as an online student at UofL and beyond.
What can I do with this degree?
Many graduates go on to have successful careers, both domestically and abroad, in the following fields: local, state and federal government agencies; campaigns; international affairs; economic development offices; non-governmental organizations; nonprofit organizations; regulatory agencies; law/legal organizations; public policy; business; academia; and media. Graduates have also been extremely successful in earning prestigious scholarships and fellowships, including numerous Fulbright Award winners and multiple Truman Scholars.
How long will the program take to complete?
The online Bachelor of Arts in Political Science is a 121-credit hour program. The duration of the program depends of several factors, including previous academic work and credit transfer (associate degree or equivalent credit earned from an accredited institutions), course load per semester and your individual learning style and pace. Typical students coming in with an associate degree may only take two years to finish their bachelor’s degree at UofL.
Are the courses synchronous or asynchronous?
Courses are asynchronous, meaning that students can learn anytime and from anywhere. The online asynchronous course delivery provides flexibility and adaptability to individual’s learning needs, methods and life schedule.
Will I earn my degree from UofL?
Yes. The Bachelor of Arts in Political Science will be granted by the University of Louisville and represented as such on the diploma.
Is this program accredited?
Yes, the BA in Political Science program at UofL has the same accreditation as the university. The University of Louisville is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACSCOC).
Is this program suitable for me as an out-of-state student?
Yes, this program is open to students in other states. Also, online students outside Kentucky enrolled in fully online programs pay the same tuition as in-state students. To learn more about whether this program fits your needs, aspirations and goals, contact our enrollment counselors for more guidance.
Whether you need more info or are ready to apply and need further guidance, reach out to us – we are here for you!
