View a complete list of courses, program-specific requirements, and more.
This program requires a total of 120 credits.
Not ready to get started on a degree program in this field? You can pair a 15-credit minor in political science with another major at UMGC.
As the world grows more connected, many major companies are expected to continue conducting their business on a global scale. That’s why employers are looking for working professionals who can think globally, analyze critically, and write convincingly. An understanding of both domestic and global political issues can help you increase your marketability Graduates of our political science program may be able to develop universal and career-relevant skills in communication, data analysis, policy development, risk management, and strategic planning. Our program directors refresh and update the curriculum regularly, with a focus on helping students achieve the following:
This online political science program may help prepare you for a variety of careers in the public, private, and non-profit sectors. Potential job titles in these areas include political scientist, information analyst, intelligence analyst, research scientist, lobbyist, or community outreach specialist.
Please note: Higher advancement in political science careers may require further education, such as a master's degree.
Throughout your curriculum, your instructors will assign coursework that may help you prioritize real-world skills and experience. In past courses, students have been able to complete the following course projects:
Gain insight from our faculty and staff and delve deeper into a range of topics, including a complete overview of UMGC’s political science program.
Get answers to questions that current and prospective students are asking about program admission, credibility, cost, student organizations, and more.
In this 120-credit degree program, you'll cover topics like American politics and its related systems; U.S. and world governments; political trends; and current world events and politics. You'll take courses in comparative politics and international relations en route to your political science degree, which may help equip you with in-depth foreign policy knowledge, hands-on experience, and problem-solving techniques and strategies. The program can help students prepare to work in a wide range of government and private campaign positions on the local, state, or federal level.
This 120-credit program offers courses year-round. The time it will take you to complete your degree will depend on several factors, including your goals, how many transfer credits you have, your course load each semester, and whether you are able to benefit from one or more of our fast paths to credit, including credit for prior learning and credit for military education and training.
Tuition rates for UMGC political science majors are very competitive and appear at the top of this page. We offer a low in-state rate for Maryland residents and a reduced tuition rate for military servicemembers and their spouses and dependent children. We also offer scholarships for those who qualify, an interest-free monthly payment plan, and no-cost digital materials in place of most textbooks to help make your degree program even more affordable.
You do not need any background or experience in political systems; public administration; or federal, state, or local government to enroll in this degree program. As long as you meet our undergraduate admission requirements, you can enroll in this program.
You do not need any certifications to enroll in or complete this program.
Pi Gamma Mu recognizes outstanding scholarship in the social sciences. UMGC's Maryland Theta chapter was recently added to the society’s Roll of Distinction and was also the winner of the 2020 UMGC Student Organization Awards Best in Show Activities and Events Award. It is available to undergraduate students. Membership is by invitation only. You must have completed at least 45 credits toward your degree to be eligible. If you have earned at least 20 credits in social science coursework (including at least 9 credits at UMGC) and have a GPA in the top 35 percent, you may be invited to join. For more information, please email marylandtheta@umgc.edu.
