Online Bachelor of Arts in Political Science
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Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, Online
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.
The online Bachelor of Arts in Political Science program at UofL cultivates an understanding of policy, politics and governments in the United States and around the globe. A wide range of courses including campaigns and elections, the Presidency and Congress, social movements and civil rights, terrorism and war, constitutional law, environmental policy, religious politics, urban politics and poverty and international politics, allows you to focus and customize your degree experience.
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.
U.S. News & World Report recognition
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 U.S. News & World Report, reflecting the university’s focus on academic excellence and student support.
UofL's Online Bachelor of Arts in Political Science program
100% online. Flexible, career-focused. Apply today and start building a better future for yourself and all of us.
Quick Facts
Online Courses
Assoc. degree + 60 credits
Per Credit Hour
August / January
Bachelor of Arts in Political Science
100% Online
The Big Picture
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.
- 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.
- Take advantage of internship opportunities wherever you are in the public, private or nonprofit sector.
- Learn from distinguished university faculty with notable academic credentials, political science experience and a commitment to applied research.
Build a strong foundation for pursuing impactful careers, law degrees or graduate degrees in political science.
You'll Be in Great Company!
Political Science majors at the University of Louisville have been extremely successful in earning prestigious scholarships and fellowships. The roster of recent successes includes numerous Fulbright Award winners and multiple Truman Scholars. Since 2010, three of our students have won the annual Mary Churchill Humphrey scholarship to pursue advanced study at universities across the United Kingdom.
Find your fit and future career in political science at UofL Online. Get started today.
How to Apply to UofL’s Online BAPOLS Degree
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
- Start your application for undergraduate admission
- Submit $30 non-refundable application fee
- 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
- Create a financial plan
What Are Admissions Requirements 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.
See the UofL Transfer Credit Policy 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
$568 per credit hour
$250 per credit hour military tuition rate
Please note that other fees apply – check our tuition page for all applicable costs. All online courses are assessed an additional $10/credit hour fee per University of Louisville policies.
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.
Standard and military tuition rates, 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.
Does Your Employer Offer Tuition Reimbursement?
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).
Start working on your application and feel free to connect with us anytime if you have questions or need further guidance.
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 advocacy 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.
What Your Support Network Looks Like
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.
| Name | Title | Phone | |
|---|---|---|---|
Image 
Tea' Rupert | Online Enrollment Counselor | online@louisville.edu | 800.871.8635 |
Image 
Tricia Gray, PHD | Associate Professor & Chair, Political Science | tricia.gray@louisville.edu | 502.852.3309 |
Image 
Sofia Draper | Admissions Counselor Sr. | sofia.draper@louisville.edu | 502.852.9402 |
Whether you need more info or are ready to apply and need further guidance, reach out to us – we are here for you!
What Else Should You Know?
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.
About the Program
What is an online Bachelor of Arts in Political Science?
The online Bachelor of Arts in Political Science is a 121-credit-hour degree program designed to build an understanding of policy, politics and governments in the United States and around the world. The program emphasizes research, data collection, critical analysis, and clear communication in writing and speaking.
Is the BAPOLS program fully online?
Yes. The Bachelor of Arts in Political Science is offered 100% online, with courses delivered asynchronously. This allows students to complete coursework on their own schedules and from anywhere.
How long does the online BA in Political Science take to complete?
The program requires 121 credit hours. The time required to complete the degree depends on factors including previous academic work, transfer credits and course load. Students entering with an associate degree may be able to complete the bachelor's degree in as little as two years.
Can I transfer credits into the online BA in Political Science?
Yes. Students may transfer up to 60 credit hours from a community college and up to 90 credit hours from an accredited four-year college. Transfer applicants must have a minimum 2.0 college GPA to be admitted in good standing.
Admissions
What are the admission requirements for the online BA in Political Science?
New students and transfer students with fewer than 24 transferable credits must have a high school diploma or equivalent, a minimum 2.5 high school GPA, and a composite ACT score of 21 or higher. Transfer students must also have a minimum 2.0 college GPA. Test-optional admission is available on a case-by-case basis.
Transfer students with 24 or more transferable credits must have a minimum 2.0 college GPA.
Is there an application deadline for the online BA in Political Science?
The preferred deadlines are July 1 for fall, December 1 for spring, and April 1 for summer. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and students may be admitted for a specific term up to the day classes begin.
Tuition & Financial Aid
How much does the online BA in Political Science cost?
Tuition is $568 per credit hour, with a $250 per credit hour military tuition rate. Online courses are also assessed an additional $10 per credit hour fee. Other fees may apply, and tuition rates and fees are subject to change.
Is financial aid available for the online BA in Political Science?
Yes. The program is eligible for Title IV federal financial aid.
Does the online BA in Political Science cost the same for out-of-state students?
Yes. Online students who live outside Kentucky pay the same tuition rate as in-state online students.
Careers & Experience
What can I do with a bachelor's degree in Political Science?
A bachelor's degree in Political Science can prepare graduates for careers in local, state and federal government agencies, political campaigns, international affairs, economic development offices, nongovernmental and nonprofit organizations, regulatory agencies, law and legal organizations, public policy, business, academia and media. The degree also provides preparation for advanced education, including law and graduate study in political science.
What skills will I develop through the program?
The program emphasizes research, data collection, critical analysis, and clear communication in writing and speaking. Coursework also develops students' ability to evaluate complex issues, interpret evidence and construct persuasive arguments.
Online Student Support
What support is available to online Political Science students?
Students have access to enrollment counselors, online student success coaches, program leadership staff, academic advisors and faculty throughout their online degree experience.
International Students
Can international students complete the online BA in Political Science?
Yes. The online Political Science program is open to international students. Students living outside the United States can complete the entire degree online from their home country, and no U.S. visa is issued because there are no campus attendance requirements.
Whether you need more info or are ready to apply and need further guidance, reach out to us – we are here for you!
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