A political science degree emphasizes critical skills in research design and effective communication, which are then applied to address contemporary political issues across the globe. Policy creation, review and processes that sit at the core of political science are also key areas of focus. In this program, you’ll build talents including empirical analysis, reasoning, argumentation and more.
Upon graduation, you may follow a variety of paths in the public, private and nonprofit sectors. Ultimately, political science aims to find connections between theory and practical problems. Identifying these links is valuable in politics and in the operation of government agencies, private businesses and nonprofit groups. You’ll also gain transferable skills in research and writing that can be useful in law school and graduate study.
How does this Bachelor of Arts in political science compare to a BS?
The Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science in political science both emphasize key concepts in this field, including policy, government and the needs of citizens. However, they differ in a few important areas.
The BS in political science degree includes additional focus on statistics and science, along with their relationship to crafting and reviewing policy. Differently, the BA in political science degree features a foreign language component that can prove to be especially valuable for roles involving international relations and global business pursuits.
To learn more about the differences between a Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Arts in political science, read this article.
The graduate programs you’ll be prepared for
Once you’ve completed this program, you’ll be equipped to pursue various graduate programs applicable to this field. Graduates of this program seek related programs in study areas such as global security, political psychology, public policy, international affairs and more.
This bachelor’s degree can be completed as part of an Accelerated Master’s program. When accepted, you can earn a master’s degree in as little as one year after completing your undergraduate degree. This path can reduce your time and costs while deepening your expertise. Eligible programs include:
Arizona State University’s Bachelor of Arts in political science emphasizes the development of reasoning with a curriculum focused on policy, public issues and citizens’ interactions with government. In this program, you’ll learn about local, national and international political concerns while building valuable skills needed for a successful career in the field.
In addition to your core courses, you’ll select elective courses that allow you to specialize in your areas of interest within political science. In your courses, you’ll learn to analyze policy, communicate effectively and engage in productive research. You may also participate in related internships to gain professional experience.
From Royal Society and American Academy Fellows to Marshall and Barry Goldwater Scholarship recipients, The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences is home to prestigious students and faculty members who include:
- Fulbright American Scholars.
- Guggenheim Fellows.
- MacArthur Fellows.
- Nobel laureates.
The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences takes a transdisciplinary approach to education with a vast spectrum of degrees in the social sciences, natural sciences and humanities. We inspire students to become socially aware critical thinkers and global citizens.
students enrolled as of fall 2024
in research expenditures in FY23
interdisciplinary schools and departments
undergraduate degrees
graduate degrees
for humanities research, according to the National Science Foundation
No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.”