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Political Science ,BS

Political Science, BS


Activism, NGO, Nongovernmental Organizations, Policy, Political Parties, Political Science, Politician, Public Policy, Rights, politics

A degree in political science will supply you with a variety of problem-solving tools that can be applied to many fields. You'll develop an understanding of the foundational concepts that shape political science, hone the research skills necessary for analyzing complex sociopolitical issues, and work with faculty on current and emerging intellectual theories and policy matters.

Program description

The BS program in political science emphasizes broad capabilities valued in a highly skilled workforce, such as data analysis and effective communication as they apply to governance, policy and political theory, as well as the ability to critically review and analyze policy.

The curriculum allows students to develop research skills and explore how political science concepts can be applied within government and society. Students also enjoy individual and group opportunities to work with experienced faculty on concrete intellectual and policy issues.

At a glance
  • Second language requirement: No
  • First required math course: MAT 142 - College Mathematics Any math course that meets the MATH designation.
  • Math intensity: Generalprogram math intensity general

Required courses (Major Map)
Concurrent program options
Students pursuing concurrent degrees (also known as a “double major”) earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. Working with their academic advisors, students can create their own concurrent degree combination. Some combinations are not possible due to high levels of overlap in curriculum.
Accelerated program options
This program allows students to obtain both a bachelor's and master's degree in as little as five years. It is offered as an accelerated bachelor's plus master's degree with:

Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master’s during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.

Admission requirements

General university admission requirements:

All students are required to meet general university admission requirements.
First-year | Transfer | International | Readmission

Tuition information
When it comes to paying for higher education, everyone’s situation is different. Students can learn about ASU tuition and financial aid options to find out which will work best for them.
Change of Major requirements

A current ASU student has no additional requirements for changing majors.

Students should visit the Change of Major form for information about how to change a major to this program.

Transfer options

ASU is committed to helping students thrive by offering tools that allow personalization of the transfer path to ASU. Students may use MyPath2ASU® to outline a list of recommended courses to take prior to transfer.

ASU has transfer partnerships in Arizona and across the country to create a simplified transfer experience for students. These pathway programs include exclusive benefits, tools and resources, and they help students save time and money in their college journey.

Global opportunities
Global experience

Studying abroad while earning a political science degree adds a global component to students' education, increasing their ability to analyze complex sociopolitical issues and affording them skills and knowledge that prepare them to lead in their chosen career.

Students earn ASU credit for completed courses while staying on track for graduation, and they may apply financial aid and scholarships toward program costs. More information is available on the Global Education website.

Career opportunities

The program serves as good preparation for staff, manager or policy analyst positions in local, state and federal government. This degree is recognized by employers as qualification for many careers in business (for-profit and nonprofit) and industry. Opportunities may include positions that involve binational, cross-border positions linking U.S. and Mexican businesses, Arizona-Sonora local government or local community groups on both sides of the border.

Many students use the degree as a gateway to law school or as a basis for further study in such applied fields as:

  • community development
  • political science
  • public administration
  • public policy
  • social science
  • urban affairs
  • urban and regional planning

Example job titles and salaries listed below are not necessarily entry level, and students should take into consideration how years of experience and geographical location may affect pay scales. Some jobs also may require advanced degrees, certifications or state-specific licensure.


Career *Growth *Median salary
3.3%
$128,620
6.3%
$113,940
-3.3%
$55,960
6.6%
$128,020
3.7%
$83,770
3.3%
$128,620
4.6%
$99,030
* Data obtained from the Occupational Information Network (O*NET) under sponsorship of the U.S. Department of Labor/Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).

Bright OutlookBright Outlook

Contact information
What are accelerated programs?
Accelerated programs allow students the opportunity to expedite the completion of their degree.

3 year programs

These programs allow students to fast-track their studies after admission and earn a bachelor's degree in three years or fewer while participating in the same high-quality educational experience of a 4-year option. Students should talk to their academic advisor to get started.

Accelerated master's

These programs allow students to accelerate their studies to earn a bachelor's plus a master's degree in as few as five years (for some programs).

Each program has requirements students must meet to be eligible for consideration. Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master’s during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.
What are concurrent programs?
Concurrent degrees allow students to pursue their own personal or professional interests, earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. To add a concurrent degree to your existing degree, work with your academic advisor.
What are joint programs?
Joint programs, or jointly conferred degrees, are offered by more than one college and provide opportunities for students to take advantage of the academic strengths of two academic units. Upon graduation, students are awarded one degree and one diploma conferred by two colleges.

What constitutes a new program?
ASU adds new programs to Degree Search frequently. Come back often and look for the “New Programs” option.
What are online programs?
ASU Online offers programs in an entirely online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. See https://asuonline.asu.edu/ for more information.
What is the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE)?
The Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) is a program in which residents of western states (other than Arizona) may be eligible for reduced nonresident tuition. See more information and eligibility requirements on the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) program.

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