Frequently Asked Questions

What Kind of Program Is It?

Walden University's B.S. in Political Science and Public Administration is designed so that you can choose courses from any concentration that interests you and study such subjects as communication, leadership, social entrepreneurship, and social justice. Core topics include American government, the making of public policy, political controversies, ethics in public leadership, and global issues in politics. A capstone project is required to complete the degree program.

What Are the Prerequisites?

If you are interested in applying to Walden University's B.S. in Political Science and Public Administration, you should have an interest in American politics and government and have excellent communication and leadership skills. Applicants to Walden University's bachelor's degree programs must be at least 24 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalent; or be an active member of the military or a veteran; or be between the ages of 21 and 23 and have earned at least 12 transferable college credit hours; or have already earned at least 90 quarter hours of credit. Applicants may need to complete additional requirements for some programs.

What Are the Program Requirements?

Degree program curriculum and credits are subject to change, and you should contact Walden University for the most current information before enrolling in a program. To earn Walden University's B.S. in Political Science and Public Administration degree, you must complete 181 credits. The degree program is divided into general education courses, core courses, concentration courses, elective courses, and a capstone course. For your concentration courses, you will select five courses from political science and public administration concentrations in social entrepreneurship, law and legal studies, global issues and social justice, managing in the public environment, and public service through civic engagement. Additionally, you'll choose 14 elective courses from any political science and public administration concentration or from bachelor's degree courses in program areas including psychology, criminal justice, business administration, and communications.

Political Science and Public Administration Core Courses

• Communication Skills for Career Development
• American Government
• Global Issues in Politics
• Political Controversies
• Principles of Public Administration
• The Making of Public Policy
• Constitutional Law
• Ethics in Public Leadership
• Capstone

What Could I Do After I Graduate?

Career Opportunities

When you have completed Walden University's B.S. in Political Science and Public Administration program, you have an opportunity to pursue various careers in the field. You may find prospective employers in fields such as campaign management and polling, journalism, law, business, and electoral politics. As a job candidate, you should be able to demonstrate analytical and communication skills as well as administrative abilities. Potential job titles may include:

• Activist
• City planner
• Communications director
• Campaign manager

Advanced Degrees

When you have finished Walden University's B.S. in Political Science and Public Administration program, you have an opportunity to apply to master's degree programs in the field. A master's degree in political science and public administration often includes a thesis option, which is typically taken by students who are interested in continuing their graduate education. Some courses that may be offered in a master's degree program include public budgeting and finance, human resources management, local government administration, and policy analysis. Degrees listed are not institution-specific but constitute a sampling of continuing education options for graduates. Degrees you could pursue include:

• Master of Arts in Political Science
• Master of Public Administration
• Master of Arts in Government and Politics
• Master of Arts in Global Development and Social Justice