Online Bachelor of Arts Degree in Political Science
Political Science (BA)
Arts and Sciences
Program Overview
Looking for the right place to pursue your political science bachelor's degree? Earn your BA through the online degree program at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. A bachelor's degree in political science can prepare students for diverse career paths including roles in government, public policy, law, international relations, non-profit management, political campaigning, journalism, and education.
Credit Hours
120
Cost Per Credit Hour*
In-State $490
Out-of-State $565
Modality
Asynchronous
Admission Terms
Fall, Spring, Summer
*Cost per credit hour is an estimate based on maintenance and university fees. Some programs may have additional course fees. Please contact your department for additional information on any related fees, and visit Tuition and Fees in Detail at One Stop.
Study a Broad and Diverse Discipline
Political science covers a lot, from looking at campaigns and elections to digging into political philosophy. It focuses on how government works at every level—local to international—and explores how social values impact public policy. Political science mixes theory and practice, making it a great major or elective for anyone. It’s perfect for students aiming for careers in law, government, foreign service, business, journalism, and teaching. It also lays solid groundwork for law, political science, or public administration graduate studies. Plus, even if you’re not focusing on law or government, taking political science classes can really open your eyes to public issues and help you understand the complexities of today’s world.
What can you do with a political science degree?
A Bachelor of Arts in Political Science offers a wealth of diverse professional pathways, making it a excellent choice for those interested in understanding political systems while having flexibility in career options.
Academic Research and Teaching
Business and Finance
Government
International Affairs
Law
Non-profits and Non-governmental Organizations
Public Administration
Featured Courses
Here are a few examples of the courses you can take as a political science student:
POLS 102: Introduction to Political Science
Introduction to fundamental institutions and processes of American national politics including the Constitution, voting, the Presidency, the Congress and the courts.
POLS 200: Introduction to Political Philosophy
An introduction to the concepts, enduring questions, and significant thinkers associated with political philosophy with specific attention to differing conceptions of human nature, politics, the state, civic obligation and rights, freedom, justice, and democracy.
POLS 249: Introduction to Comparative Politics
Fundamentals of comparative political inquiry, including what constitutes comparative politics, how comparative study of political systems is done, and major issues in comparative politics.
POLS 480: Capstone
Participation in political science colloquia; reflection on and assessment of political science major; consideration of career and graduate/professional school opportunities.
