College of Arts and Sciences
Political Science BA Online
Take your first step towards a career in law, business, government, or non-profit organizations with UMass Dartmouth's online Political Science degree program.
Program details
- Degree
- Bachelor of Arts
- Enrollment
- Part-time
- Transfer Credits
- Up to 90
- Median annual salary for political scientists:
- $142,080 Median annual salary for political scientists. View career outcomes.
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Why earn your Political Science degree online at UMass Dartmouth?
Designed for working adults and part-time learners, UMass Dartmouth's online Bachelor of Arts in Political Science provides the flexibility to earn your degree while preparing for careers in law, government, public service, business, nonprofit organizations, and international affairs.
Studying political science, you'll explore political institutions, public policy, and global issues while building critical thinking, communication, research, and analytical skills. You'll gain an understanding of political systems at the local, state, national, and international levels and graduate prepared to navigate today's complex political landscape as an informed citizen and professional.
Our curriculum examines how governments shape society, and how individuals influence political systems through scientific, philosophical, and applied perspectives. Graduate prepared for advanced study or a wide range of career opportunities.
Launch your career
Salary range: $142,080What can I do with a Political Science BA Online degree?
A Bachelor of Arts in Political Science prepares you with the critical thinking, research, communication, and analytical skills valued by employers across the public, private, and nonprofit sectors. Graduates pursue careers in a variety of fields and roles, including:
- Legislative aide
- Policy analyst
- Government administrator
- Nonprofit program manager
- Political consultant
- Campaign manager
- Community outreach coordinator
- Public relations specialist
- International affairs analyst
Top employers
Curriculum
Earning a Political Science BA, you'll develop the knowledge and skills to:
- Analyze political systems, institutions, and public policy at the local, national, and global levels.
- Evaluate complex political and social issues using research, critical thinking, and evidence-based analysis.
- Strengthen your written and oral communication skills to inform, persuade, and lead.
- Examine the relationships between government, law, public administration, and society.
- Apply political theory and comparative perspectives to understand today's most pressing challenges.
You'll take courses in American government, comparative politics, international relations, political theory, public policy, constitutional law, and research methods. Throughout the program, you'll build the analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills valued in careers across government, business, nonprofit organizations, law, and public service.
Real-world experience
UMass Dartmouth's online Political Science program combines academic rigor with the flexibility to fit your schedule. You'll learn from experienced faculty while collaborating with classmates who bring diverse professional and personal perspectives to the classroom.
Whether you're preparing for graduate study, law school, or career advancement, you'll graduate with the knowledge and practical skills to analyze public issues, communicate effectively, and make informed decisions in an increasingly complex world.
Course descriptions and requirements
Explore the official academic catalog for detailed curriculum requirements, course descriptions and program information.
Online or on-campus: your choice
Political science is also offered on-campus
Earn your political science degree on campus at UMass Dartmouth. Explore the general major, or focus your studies through a concentration in international politics or pre-law.
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Accolades
UMass Dartmouth is a nationally ranked R2 research university that combines the resources of a major university with a personalized educational experience. Ranked among the top 15 public research institutions with fewer than 10,000 students and in the top 17% nationally for return on investment, UMass Dartmouth is recognized for advancing research, social mobility, and career-ready education.
Nationally ranked discovery across arts and sciences
The College of Arts and Sciences brings together nationally ranked programs, accomplished scholars, and research with measurable impact. Its faculty includes eight Fulbright Scholars and has secured more than $14 million in grants over three years, creating opportunities for students to learn through research, creative inquiry, and community engagement.
Nationally ranked online education, built for real life
- Dedicated student support: Receive personalized guidance from enrollment through graduation with support from advisors and student services teams.
- Resources to help you succeed: Access 24/7 online tutoring, writing support, library resources, and other tools designed for online learners.
- Flexible learning options: Complete coursework in formats designed for working adults, with year-round course offerings, including winter and summer sessions.
- Recognized online programs: Earn your degree from UMass Dartmouth, a nationally recognized institution with ranked online programs by U.S. News & World Report.
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Accreditations and distinctions
UMass Dartmouth is a Military Friendly School, with leading practices in the recruitment and retention of students with military experience. Learn more about veteran services and benefits at UMassD.
UMass Dartmouth participates in the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements.
Frequently asked questions
Have questions about the Political Science BA Online program? Here you will find answers to common questions about admissions, curriculum, career outcomes, and student experience.
A Political Science degree can prepare you for careers in government, law, business, nonprofit organizations, and international affairs. You’ll develop skills in research, critical thinking, writing, communication, and analyzing evidence—skills that can be applied across a wide range of careers and industries.
Yes. The online Political Science BA is designed with part-time learners in mind. Most courses are taught asynchronously, giving you the flexibility to complete coursework around your work and personal responsibilities while still working within established assignment deadlines.
Yes. UMass Dartmouth offers a pre-law concentration within the Political Science major, with coursework focused on law, courts, and the U.S. and international political systems.
Yes. UMass Dartmouth accepts up to 90 credits from a regionally accredited institution, making the online Political Science BA an option for students who have already completed college coursework and want to finish their bachelor's degree. You’ll also have access to one-on-one advising to help you understand your transfer credits and stay on track toward graduation.
Yes. Online students may be eligible for scholarships, grants, and other forms of financial aid to help make earning your degree more affordable. Eligibility varies by student and award, so we encourage you to explore your financial aid options and apply for scholarships as part of the enrollment process. Please visit our financial aid page to learn more about financial aid and scholarships.