4 Best Online Political Science Degrees in Virginia 2025

Political science degree programs explore the practice and theory of politics and government at all levels: local, state, national, and global. Students explore coursework in political theory, public policy, and international politics while growing their critical thinking and communication skills.

Do you want to study political science but have a busy schedule? You can find flexible accredited political science degrees online. Below, we'll highlight schools offering these programs in Virginia. You'll learn where to find the best online bachelor's in political science. We'll also discuss low-cost online political science degrees.

Top Online Political Science Degree Programs in Virginia

Students seeking alternatives to the on-campus learning experience can benefit from online learning, which offers perks like flexible scheduling and the ability to learn from home. Explore the schools below to find great online political science degree programs in Virginia.

1. Old Dominion University

Old Dominion University in Norfolk offers a top-ranked online political science degree students can earn as a Bachelor of Science (BS) or Bachelor of Arts (BA). This program explores public policy, international politics, and American government and many courses have no set class times.

In-state learners pay $408 per credit hour and can lower costs with scholarships.

2. Virginia Tech

Students interested in attending Virginia Tech in Blacksburg can enroll in an online Master of Arts (MA) in political science program. This master's degree explores social science research methodologies and political science fundamentals to prepare grad students for doctoral programs or careers with nonprofit organizations.

Online learners enjoy asynchronous coursework and access to the school's extensive library.

3. Liberty University

Lynchburg is home to Liberty University's BS in political science. This 100% online program features short eight-week courses exploring international relations, American political processes, and more. The per-credit tuition for this bachelor's degree is $390 for full-time learners and $455 for part-time students. Learners graduate faster by transferring up to 75% of their degree total.

4. Norfolk State University

Norfolk State University offers a BA in political science that students can complete in person or online. Experienced faculty members teach urban planning, jurisprudence, American government, and foreign policy.

Students can participate in community service events or study abroad to gain real-world experience. Financial aid is available to reduce school costs.

Other Top Online Political Science Programs

Many great political science programs are available online at colleges outside of Virginia. Explore the following schools to discover accredited degrees in other states.

1. Southern New Hampshire University

Students enrolled in Southern New Hampshire University's online BA in political science program learn about American politics, public administration, comparative politics, and more. The tuition rate for this degree is $330 per credit hour.

Enrollees benefit from around-the-clock tutoring and academic advising. Online students can receive credits for transfer, work experience, examination, and certificates.

2. Colorado State University

Colorado State University offers a fully online BA in political science exploring public policy, political theory, and international relations. The program includes an internship students can complete anywhere in the U.S. Enrollees with transfer credits could earn this degree in two years.

All learners pay the same in-state tuition rate of $476 per credit hour. Scholarships are available to lower costs.

3. Southwest Minnesota State University

Southwest Minnesota State University students can enroll in a fully online BA in political science and finish in as little as three years. Coursework focuses on international law, comparative politics, and world political geography and includes an internship.

Admission requires a minimum 2.5 high school or college GPA. Enrollees pay $305 per credit hour.

4. Oregon State University

Oregon State University's online bachelor's degree in political science is available as a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science. This program tackles diverse issues such as campaign finance, censorship, and international terrorism.

The OSU Ecampus offers free online tutoring, success coaching, career guidance, and more. The cost of this degree is an affordable $366 per credit hour.

5. Indiana University

Indiana University offers a 100% online BS in political science ranked among the best in the nation by U.S. News & World Report. Students learn how the government works and explore political systems and public policy.

This program offers rolling admissions and charges an out-of-state tuition rate of $378.10 per credit hour. After graduating, students are ready to become legislators, legal assistants, and more.

6. Arkansas State University

At Arkansas State University, students can enroll in an online BA in political science offering accelerated coursework and multiple start dates. Courses focus on public administration, criminal law, American political theory, and more. Enrollees can transfer up to 90 credits to accelerate degree completion.

The tuition rate for this program is $282 per credit hour. Financial aid is also available.

Our Selection Criteria

Our team chose the schools in the rank list above using a thorough vetting process. Each institution has met the following criteria for delivering a high-quality experience in higher education:

• Accredited: The schools have been accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education, Higher Learning Commission, Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, and Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges, guaranteeing recognized academic standards.
• Reputable: We confirmed that the colleges and universities in this list are respected, considering factors such as acceptance rates, student outcomes, and graduation rates.
• Affordable: Schools above increase degree affordability by offering lower tuition, financial aid, or scholarships.
• Path to degree completion: These institutions offer an accelerated degree path through flexible online options and credits for prior learning (e.g., transfer credits and work experience).

What Can I Expect From an Online Political Science Program?

Before starting an online political science program, you must meet the admission requirements for the school you want to attend. They might include submitting a high school, community college, or four-year college transcript with a minimum GPA and providing test scores (i.e., ACT/SAT for undergraduate programs and GRE/GMAT for grad school).

Programs generally offer synchronous classes at set times or asynchronous classes students can access whenever convenient. Lectures, assignments, discussion boards, and instructor announcements are available on the school's learning platform. Programs might have set schedules and due dates or allow learners to manage coursework at their own pace.

How To Choose an Accredited Online Political Science Program

When selecting an online political science program, it's important to consider your academic goals and career aspirations. Can the program you choose prepare you for the job of your dreams? Other factors to consider include:

• Specializations: If you want to focus on a specific area of study within the political science field, consider programs with specializations like pre-law or international affairs.
• Cost: You can save money on your degree by applying to online schools that accept FAFSA, offer lower tuition, and provide scholarships.
• Flexibility: Consider online colleges with self-paced learning options or asynchronous courses.
• Fast Degree Completion: If you want to graduate sooner than in a traditional program, look for schools offering accelerated online political science degrees.
• Online Support: Top programs support online learners with free tutoring, library access, academic advising, and career services.

Political Science Career Paths

The list of career paths for political science majors is long. Here are a few to consider:

• campaign manager
• policy analyst
• high school government teacher
• public policy specialist
• nonprofit fundraiser
• political scientist

Students can also become fundraising and public relations managers. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment for this occupation is projected to grow faster than average at 7% from 2023 to 2033.

Discover Accredited Online Programs Today

Begin your journey toward an exciting career in political science by exploring the accredited degree programs offered by schools on Learn.org. Contact one of these colleges today to find out how their programs can help you achieve your goals.