Online Political Science Colleges: How to Choose

Students who are considering online political science schools must decide which to attend based on several key factors. Political science degrees may have different focuses, depending on the particular college and program, some of which are more suitable for certain career paths. Working professionals may also have difficulty with programs that require students to attend class at a particular time.

How to Decide on an Online Political Science Program

Career Focus and Degree Purpose

A political science degree can lead graduates in many different directions. Some wish to go into public service. Others want to study law. Some are simply looking for an intermediate step on the way to a higher degree. Different institutions design political science degrees to fit these and other objectives. Prospective students who wish to study political science should choose an online degree based on what their future plans are.

Flexibility and Time Constraints

Some online political science degree programs are designed with a more traditional student audience in mind and have a stricter class schedule that requires students to meet at a certain time every day or periodically throughout the week to take part in seminar classes. Other institutions' programs are created for working professionals who may not be able to meet at any particular time. Instead, they offer lectures and seminars by video format and allow students to discuss them asynchronously via class forums or message boards. Students should ensure before they enroll in a program that it meets their needs, both in terms of flexibility and in terms of total time requirements.

Online Degree Options for Political Science

Bachelor of Science in Political Science

A bachelor's degree program in political science includes study in a wide variety of general subjects such as constitutional law, economics, statistics and sociology as well as more subject-focused courses such as American government, politics in history, policy and implementation and international relations. Students take classes that may include video recorded lectures, online message board discussion groups and real-time tutoring sessions with teachers via instant messenger, audio chat or video conferencing via webcams. Most programs take 3-4 years to complete.

Master of Science in Political Science

A master's program in political science may cover a range of topics, such as American history and politics, political theory, global politics, systems of government, policy implementation and political advocacy. Students normally use Internet-based education software that combines e-mail, forums and instant messenger communication with real-time grading and online testing capabilities. They may be required to write a substantial thesis. Programs can generally be completed within two years.