Best Online Political Science Degrees in Texas 2025
Students in Texas have access to a variety of accredited political science programs to advance their education and start successful careers in the field.
Earning an accredited political science degree online gives students the flexibility to pursue their educational goals while balancing personal and professional responsibilities. Whether you're interested in American politics, international relations, or public administration, online programs provide a convenient way to explore numerous career paths.
In Texas, students can earn affordable political science degrees online through distance learning. The best online bachelor's in political science programs offer high-quality coursework, internship opportunities, and financial aid options to help students pursue their education.
Top Online Political Science Degree Programs in Texas
These top schools allow students to earn a political science degree with online learning. Texas residents can access these top schools across the state.
1. Sam Houston State University
Sam Houston State University offers a Bachelor of Arts (BA) and a Bachelor of Science (BS) in political science. Students can choose from several concentrations, such as American government, international relations and foreign policy, comparative government, or public administration and political theory.
The program includes opportunities for internships with nonprofits, law offices, and political campaigns, allowing students to gain practical experience in the field.
2. Texas Tech University
The BA in political science at Texas Tech University introduces students to political values, foreign policy, and domestic policy issues, providing a thorough understanding of the field. Graduates can pursue careers in journalism, law, and various political science-related roles.
The program's coursework emphasizes critical thinking, data analysis, and public administration, preparing students for graduate studies or law school.
3. University of Texas Permian Basin
The University of Texas Permian Basin offers an online bachelor's in political science that provides a comprehensive understanding of American, state, and local governments. Students can select from four focus areas, including:
- American politics
- comparative politics
- policy and public administration
- energy policy and public administration
The program offers flexibility, allowing students to work at their own pace. Online students have access to financial aid resources and student support services.
Other Top Online Political Science Programs
Texas students can also enroll in other schools offering online degrees. These schools below enroll students, regardless of their location.
Oregon State University
Oregon State University offers a BA and BS in political science, which can prepare students for careers as intelligence analysts, legal assistants, and election coordinators. They cover topics in constitutional law, political institutions, and public policy.
Online students benefit from support services such as career services, library resources, and online tutoring.
Old Dominion University
Students at Old Dominion University can earn either a BA or a BS in political science. The program focuses on American and international political topics, with coursework that includes public law, comparative politics, and international relations.
Electives are available in specialized areas, such as cybersecurity strategy, politics of education, and the civil rights movement.
Georgia State University
Georgia State University offers a BA in political science that uses an active learning approach. Students participate in online debates and simulations to develop data analysis, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
Online students also engage in community-building activities and group projects to enhance their learning experience.
Arizona State University
Arizona State University offers a BA in political science with a focus on the core processes of policy creation. Students develop skills in argumentation, reasoning, and empirical analysis, with coursework covering global politics, political ideologies, and comparative government.
Graduates can expect to be well-prepared for law school, graduate studies, or public service careers.
Our Selection Criteria
When selecting programs for this list, we focused on the following criteria:
- Accreditation: All programs are accredited, ensuring they adhere to rigorous academic standards.
- Flexibility: These schools offer online programs with part-time and full-time options for students who have other commitments to balance.
- Program Quality: We evaluate the curriculum to ensure each program provides comprehensive and relevant coursework.
- Support Services: These schools have various resources available for online students, such as financial aid assistance, career services, and academic advising.
Choosing an Accredited Online Political Science Degree
When choosing an accredited online political science degree, it is important to ensure that you enroll in one of the online colleges that accept FAFSA, or Free Application for Federal Student Aid. Prospective students should consider factors such as:
- Cost: Compare tuition rates for in-state and out-of-state students.
- Flexibility: Determine whether full-time or part-time enrollment fits your schedule.
- Career Support: Look for programs with supportive career services and internship opportunities.
- Accreditation: Ensure the program is offered by an accredited institution to maintain educational quality and eligibility for financial aid.
What Can I Expect from an Online Political Science Degree Program?
Online political science degree programs offer a comprehensive education in political systems, public administration, and political theory. They provide the same high-quality education as on-campus programs.
Whether you choose a traditional political science degree or an accelerated online political science degree, you can expect to complete credit hours in core areas such as comparative politics, American government, and public policy.
Admission requirements typically include:
- a high school diploma or equivalent
- GPA requirements
- standardized test scores (if applicable)
- completion of prerequisite coursework in social sciences or liberal arts
Coursework in Political Science Online Programs
Political science programs include various coursework designed to provide a broad understanding of government, policy, and political institutions.
Common courses include:
- political theory and methodology
- constitutional law and public policy
- American government and comparative politics
- foreign policy and international relations
- research methods and data analysis
What Can I Do With an Online Bachelor's in Political Science Degree?
Graduates with an online bachelor's in political science can pursue diverse career paths, including roles in public service, political campaigns, and nonprofit organizations. Some common career opportunities include:
- political scientists
- public relations specialists
- law school candidates
- graduate studies in political science or related fields
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, political science majors can expect job growth in areas such as government, public administration, and nonprofit sectors.
Find an Accredited Online Bachelor's Degree Today
If you're ready to start your journey toward a rewarding career in political science, consider reaching out to the admissions offices of these accredited universities. Learn more about admission requirements, financial aid, and course options to find the program that best fits your goals.