Top Affordable Online Political Science Degree Programs in Maine (2025)

The pursuit of higher education in political science has become increasingly accessible through online platforms.

Especially in Maine, students can find a variety of affordable online political science degrees that cater to their educational and professional aspirations.

This article serves as a guide to the top online programs in the state, focusing on their affordability, accreditation, financial aid options, and potential career paths.

Whether you're a working professional, a remote learner, or seeking a career change, Maine's online political science degrees offer flexibility without compromising quality.

Featured Affordable Political Science Degrees Online

Explore the top affordable online political science degrees in Maine. These programs combine academic excellence with flexible, online learning environments.

1. University of Maine

The University of Maine offers a 100% online Bachelor of Arts in Political Science program that delves deep into political theories, principles, institutions, and practices within historical and social contexts.

The curriculum covers vital subfields like American Politics, International Relations, Comparative Politics, and Political Theory.

With 120 credits, flexible entry throughout the year, and tuition ranging from $400 to $500 per credit, it provides a comprehensive and accessible education.

Nationally Accredited Online Political Science Degrees for Maine

Maine residents can benefit from nationally accredited online political science degrees, ensuring quality education aligned with industry standards.

UMass Dartmouth

The Bachelor of Political Science program at UMass Dartmouth offers a comprehensive exploration of global political institutions and processes.

This curriculum prepares students for career opportunities in law, business, international organizations, government, and nonprofit organizations.

Students must complete a 120-credit program that includes research, critical analysis, and argument development.

Additionally, the program mandates a 3-credit internship to provide practical field experience. Tuition for the program varies, ranging from $426 to $467 per credit.

Georgia State University

Georgia State University offers an online bachelor's degree program in political science featuring two concentration options: a general program and a pre-law concentration.

These programs provide students with a comprehensive understanding of American politics, comparative politics, international politics, and political theory, preparing them for future success in graduate school, law school, and their chosen careers.

Typically, students complete the program in four years, with annual tuition and fees totaling $11,076 for Georgia residents and $30,114 for non-residents.

University of Louisville

The University of Louisville offers an Online Bachelor of Arts program in Political Science.

The program is designed to accommodate working professionals seeking career advancement in political science.

This program provides policy, politics, and government expertise, both within the United States and globally.

Tuition for this program is $527 per credit hour, with a reduced rate of $250 per credit hour for active-duty military personnel.

Northern Illinois University

Northern Illinois University offers an Online Bachelor of Arts program in Political Science designed for students who cannot attend classes on campus in DeKalb.

This program is open to students who have either completed an Associate's degree at a community college or met NIU's general education and foreign language requirements.

The tuition rate for undergraduate students is $360.80 per credit hour for 1-11 credit hours and $721.60 for full-time enrollment (12 hours or more).

Arizona State University

Arizona State University (ASU) offers an online Bachelor of Science program in Political Science.

This program comprehensively explains how political theory and policy intersect with real-world issues.

Students acquire skills applicable to various career paths through their studies, including business, politics, government, and the nonprofit sector.

The program comprises 40 total classes spanning 7.5 weeks for 120 credit hours. The tuition cost for residents and non-residents is $7,317 for the academic year.

American Public University

American Public University's (APU) online Bachelor of Arts program in Political Science goes beyond the superficial aspects of politics, empowering students to analyze political systems critically.

The faculty members bring real-world expertise from their government and public service roles, and the program includes a capstone research project.

Offering 120 credits provides flexibility by accepting up to 90 transfer credits and offering varying course durations. Tuition costs range from $250 to $350 per credit.

Indiana University East

Indiana University East offers an affordable online Bachelor of Science program in Political Science with 120 credits.

This program offers flexible scheduling, dedicated credit transfer counselors, and benefits from IU East's extensive experience in online education.

A degree in political science can open doors to various career paths. Tuition per credit hour for in-state or reciprocity students is $242.48, while out-of-state students pay $352.96 per credit.

Washington State University College of Arts and Sciences

Washington State University (WSU) presents an online Bachelor of Arts program in Political Science.

This program strongly emphasizes research-driven problem-solving, addressing both traditional and emerging public policy challenges in the United States and worldwide.

Graduates can pursue advanced degrees, attend law school, or embark on careers in government, politics, nonprofit organizations, consulting, law enforcement, and more.

For Washington residents, the cost is $567.45 per credit, and for non-residents, it is $632.60 per credit.

Penn State World Campus

Prepare for a wide range of careers in government and business with the online Bachelor of Science in Political Science program from Penn State World Campus.

It equips students with practical knowledge in quantitative analysis, research design, and political science, making them well-prepared for various professions in government and other sectors.

The program comprises 120 credits with a tuition cost of $626 per credit for in-state students and $671 per credit for out-of-state students.

Financial Aid Options for Online Political Science Programs

Financial aid can significantly reduce the cost of an online political science degree. Explore these options:

• Federal Grants: Need-based assistance that does not require repayment.
• Scholarships: Merit-based or need-based, offered by institutions and private organizations.
• Work-Study Programs: Part-time jobs for undergraduate and graduate students with financial need.
• Federal Student Loans: Government loans with lower interest rates.
• Private Loans: Additional funding from private financial institutions.
• Employer Assistance Programs: Some employers offer tuition assistance or reimbursement.
• State Grants: Maine-specific financial aid for residents.

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

Determining the cost of a political science degree is a vital part of your educational planning.

While the most accurate estimates often come from directly contacting prospective schools, having a general idea of the expenses involved is beneficial.

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the average annual cost for a bachelor's degree, including tuition, fees, room, and board, was about $28,775 in the 2019-2020 academic year.

The average expense for students attending public institutions was lower, around $21,035. However, these figures can vary based on the school's location, the program's structure, and whether you are an in-state or out-of-state student.

To ensure you have the most current information about tuition, financial aid, and any additional fees, it's essential to visit the program websites of the institutions you're considering.

What Can I Do with a Political Science Degree?

A degree in political science opens doors to various careers, from private firms to the assembly floors.

Here are some possibilities:

• Policy Analyst: Research and evaluate government policies.
• Legislative Assistant: Support lawmakers in drafting and analyzing legislation.
• Political Campaign Manager: Oversee political campaign operations.
• Public Relations Specialist: Manage public image of organizations or individuals.
• Journalist: Cover political news and events.
• Government Officer: Serves in various government departments.
• Lawyer: With additional law education, practice legal advocacy and consulting.

Start Your Political Science Degree Online Today

Today, embark on your journey to an affordable online political science degree in Maine.

These programs offer a unique blend of quality education, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness, preparing you for a dynamic political career. You can open doors to diverse and impactful career paths with the right degree.