Top 3 Affordable Online Political Science Degree Programs in Illinois (2025)

If you've always been interested in government and politics, why not get a degree in political science?

This broad degree prepares you for a career in a lot of different areas, giving you flexibility for the future.

Even better, if you live in the state of Illinois, affordable online political science degrees are available from some of the state's best universities.

Featured Affordable Political Science Degrees Online

Keep reading for more details on some of the best Illinois affordable online political science degrees available now.

1. Northern Illinois University

Northern Illinois University (NIU) offers an online bachelor's degree completion program in political science.

To qualify for the program, you must have an associate degree or have already completed your general education requirements.

Tuition starts at $12,504 for 12 hours. All hours over 12 are free, so if you can take more classes you could graduate earlier.

Scholarships, grants, and other forms of financial aid are also available for all online students.

2. University of Illinois Springfield

Check out the University of Illinois Springfield (UIS) if you're looking for an affordable online political science degree from a state university.

If you're thinking about getting your master's degree too, check out the accelerated program and earn it in half the time.

UIS online classes are primarily asynchronous so you can study when it's convenient for you without having to neglect any responsibilities.

Tuition starts at $312.25 for all online students. Scholarships, grants, and other financial aid are also available for those who qualify.

3. Western Illinois University

At Western Illinois University (WIU), you could earn a bachelor's degree in political science entirely through online study.

WIU's online program includes two concentrations you can choose from general and public administration or public policy.

Through an integrated program, you also have the option of earning a master's degree along with your bachelor's in a total of five years.

Tuition starts at $326.70 for all U.S. students. Scholarships, grants, and other forms of financial aid are available to all who qualify.

Other Online Programs Available

Florida International University

Florida International University (FIU) allows you to earn your bachelor's degree in political science entirely online.

FIU's interactive software gives you the ability to get real-time feedback from your instructors while listening to lectures any time asynchronously.

The program also pairs you with a success coach who will help ensure you get the most out of your online degree.

Tuition starts at $566.58 for out-of-state students ($153.28 for Florida residents). Financial aid is available for all qualifying students.

Indiana University Bloomington

Check out your neighboring state for an online bachelor's degree in political science from Indiana University Bloomington (IU).

The program features a mix of synchronous and asynchronous classes so you can build your course schedule around other commitments.

IU's online program has rolling admission, so you don't have to wait until next semester to apply.

Tuition starts at $365.31 for out-of-state students ($249.73 for Indiana residents). Financial aid is also available, including scholarships.

Liberty University

Liberty University's online political science degree is designed to train future political leaders and advisors.

The fully online program features asynchronous classes so you can learn when it's convenient for you.

Liberty's online bachelor's degree has been ranked one of the best, and most affordable, in the country.

Tuition starts at $390 per credit hour. Scholarships, grants, and other financial aid options are available to make it even more affordable.

Oregon State University

At Oregon State University (OSU), you can earn an online bachelor's degree in political science from one of the top programs in the country.

OSU's online program features asynchronous classes, so you don't have to worry about the difference in time zones.

You'll also have access to online resources, including success coaching, career services, and free tutoring.

Tuition starts at $350 per credit hour for all eCampus students. Financial aid is also available for all students who qualify.

Penn State World Campus

At Penn State World Campus, you can earn a bachelor's degree in political science 100% online.

The program is designed for working adults and features asynchronous classes so you can learn at your convenience.

With a bachelor's degree in political science from PennState, you'll be prepared for a variety of careers, including government service.

Tuition starts at $626 per credit hour. Scholarships, grants, and other financial aid options are available for all qualified students.

Southern New Hampshire University

Try Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) if you're looking for a bachelor's degree in political science that you can earn fully online.

SNHU's online degree program features multiple start dates so you can earn your degree when you're ready.

The program gives you access to the online classroom 24/7 with asynchronous classes that you can watch at any time.

Tuition starts at $330 per credit hour. Scholarships, grants, and other financial aid opportunities are available if you qualify.

University of Iowa

The University of Iowa has an affordable bachelor's degree in political science that you can earn 1005 online.

To qualify for the program, you must have at least 24 hours of college-level transfer credit or an associate degree.

With the University of Iowa's online degree, out-of-state students pay the same as Iowa residents, so you can save some money on tuition.

Online tuition starts at $376 per credit hour. Scholarships, grants, and other financial aid opportunities are available if you qualify.

Financial Aid Options for Online Political Science Programs

When you get your online degree from an accredited institution, federal aid is always an option. Illinois also offers state financial aid.

Focus on scholarships and grants to cover the majority of your costs, since you don't ever have to pay those back.

How Much Does It Cost to Earn a Political Science Degree?

In the state of Illinois, you can expect to pay $10,000 to $15,000 a year for your degree if you go to a public university as a state resident.

If you go to a private university or a public university in another state, you might end up paying higher tuition rates.

What Can I Do with a Political Science Degree?

Political science is a versatile degree that can open doors for you in many different fields.

Most political science majors end up teaching or working in the government. Many also go on to law school and become attorneys.

Start Your Political Science Degree Online Today

Get a jumpstart on your career with an Illinois affordable online political science degree from one of these great universities.