BA Political Science

The BA program in political science offers a variety of courses and opportunities to study politics and policies at the local, national and global levels. The program aims to provide students with the tools and skills they need to link theory with real-world problems and issues.

Attendance type

Full-time

Credit hours

120

Study method

Online or campus immersion

STEM-OPT option

Not available

Campus

ASU Tempe campus

The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences

The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences at ASU offers over 90 undergraduate majors and 140 graduate degrees across 23 interdisciplinary schools and departments. We educate future leaders in language, culture, society, critical thinking and scientific exploration. Through pioneering degree programs, cutting-edge research and innovative learning experiences, the College enhances communities locally, nationally and globally.

With the largest and highly diverse student population at ASU, we foster an inclusive environment that empowers students to make meaningful impacts in society.

ASU degree pathways

Students enrolled at an ASU Cintana Alliance Network institution have the chance to start their courses at their home institution and transfer those credits* to finish their remaining years at ASU.

Model available: Undergraduate dual degree and pathway to ASU degree only.

Courses at home university

Up to 90 credit hrs. can be transferred

from ACI to ASU

Students must earn a “C-” or

higher for courses to transfer to ASU

Graduation requirements at partner institution

Courses at ASU

Minimum of 30 credits must be completed at ASU

English Composition I & II

General Education and Graduation requirements must be

met through the combination of transfer courses from partner institution and the coursework completed at ASU

*Transfer eligibility is subject to student performance in transfer courses and Arizona State University transfer requirements.
*A specific plan of study will be agreed upon between institutions, but here are general requirements to be completed at each institution.

Featured courses

POS 210: Political Ideologies

Leading political ideas and belief systems, e.g., Marxism, liberalism, conservatism, theories of democracy and alternative futures.

POS 150: Comparative Government

Political institutions and processes in selected foreign countries, including origins, strengths and weaknesses of contemporary political systems and political development.

POS 160: Global Politics

Nature of contemporary world politics through the study of both general theoretical topics and specific geographical areas.

Career opportunities and applicable roles

By earning this degree, you’ll have valuable skills for roles throughout a variety of related industries such as government, business analytics or journalism. You’ll also be prepared for a career within each sector including public, private and nonprofit organizations.

Business Analyst

Data Analyst

Field Researcher

Human Behavior Researcher

Intelligence Officer

Marketing Manager

Politician

2025-26 Important dates and deadlines

Program Start	Application Deadline	Classes Begin	Tuition Payment Deadline
Spring start (January)	November 1, 2024	January 13, 2025	January 20, 2025
Fall start (August)	May 1, 2025	August 21, 2025	August 25, 2025
Spring start (January)	November 1, 2025	January 12, 2026	January 19, 2026