What are some of the specializations within this degree program?

• Political theory is defined as a method that illustrates the thoughts set forth by a nation or a group.
• Political philosophy examines a variety of concepts, such as justice, liberty, law, rights, property and legal code enforcement.
• Political ideology examines a belief system that is designed to justify and explain a society's governmental and economic order. It also offers tactics for attaining and/or maintaining this order, as well as signifying policies events, and personalities.
• Political economy studies the relationship between economic and political processes.
• Comparative politics is characterized by using a comparative method rather than a pragmatic approach. It focuses on how something works, rather than what makes it works.
• International relations examines global issues and foreign affairs amid the states in the intercontinental system. In short, the relationship between various countries is studied.

(The American Political Science Association)

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What degree levels are available?

• Associate Degree: 2 years to complete
• Bachelor's Degree: 4 years to complete
• Master's Degree: 1 to 2 years to complete
• Doctorate Degree: 3 to 5 years to complete

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What are the educational and certification requirements?

Regardless of the career path you choose, you can easily begin in an entry-level position if you hold a two- to four-year political science degree. A master's degree, which will require additional study after a bachelor's degree is earned, will qualify you to hold a research or administrative position. Should you decide you want to eventually teach at the college or university level, you will want to pursue a PhD, which is the highest political science degree you can earn. Other than the various degree levels that can be achieved, there are no particular certifications required for the political science field.

Political science majors will also need to take classes that help them learn excellent verbal and written skills. These classes will help gain the skills needed to communicate with others in the field, collaborate on various research projects, and/or even engage in debates. (BLS)

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What kinds of classes will I be expected to take?

• Political Theory: This is a fundamental offering for political science majors, and the knowledge therein will ground students' experience throughout their academic career. Plato, Socrates, the Enlightenment, and political order (and disorder) are just some of the topics explored in this class.  
• Public Policy: Although this is a fully blown major in its own right, poli sci students will undoubtedly encounter at least one class in the field. It focuses on such concepts as foreign policy, the regulation of economy, and the government's role in maintaining civil liberties in society.
• American Government and Politics: This is yet another flagship course in political science education, whose ramifications will be felt in virtually every other course a student takes in the discipline. You probably already know at least a few of the main topics in this course: the Constitution, the history of the party system, and the struggle for civil rights.  
• Comparative Politics: This class invites students to analyze the similarities and differences between governments throughout the world. The Soviet Union, Latin America, and western Europe all factor in here.
• Race, Ethnicity, and Identity: Students explore the roles that gender, age, race, ethnicity, disability, sexuality, and other distinguishing factors play in politics. This is also a class where current events frequently come to light.

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If I pursue this program online, will I be required to complete any on-site training?

The way to determine if on-site training will factor into your program is to specify the degree level that you would like to attain. If you will be earning your associate or bachelor's diploma, you likely won't have to complete in-person training. Master's and doctoral candidates, however, may need to be physically present at some point, in order to present their dissertations and theses, as well as to meet with their professors or advisers in person.  

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What are some other degrees that are related to this program?

• Criminal Justice: Students will be prepared to enter job fields within corrections, court systems, and law enforcement, upon degree completion.  Much of the focus within the program falls on law and justice systems.
• Conflict Resolution: Mediators, negotiators, and/or resolution educators are possible careers upon degree completion.  
• Counseling: Students will be prepared to work in the mental health services profession.  A general background of psychology and technique may be taught in lower degree programs.  
• Law & Paralegal: A law or paralegal degree will prepare students for positions in the criminal justice field such as attorneys and paralegals.

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