Residential classes

Aug
28

next start date

16

week semester

5

year locked-in tuition

Online & night classes

Jun
26

next start date

8

week sessions

$375

undergraduate tuition

Available program formats: Online: BA In class: BA

Columbia College Bachelor of Arts in Political Science

Learn about government in theory and in practice with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science degree from Columbia College.

Explore political science at Columbia College

With a degree in political science from Columbia College, you’ll gain new perspectives on the legislation, policies, trends and political ideas that impact our daily lives. Some of the knowledge is theoretical—for example, issues of democracy, justice and equality. Some focuses on practical issues like the constitutional structure and levels of the U.S. government. Students also learn about other governmental systems around the world and how they interact with each other.

You’ll graduate with a valuable understanding of political philosophy, American national government, public administration and international relations. Your knowledge will open doors in fields like advocacy, public relations, government service, national intelligence, history, journalism, law or education.

Opportunities to study:

  • Courts and the Law
  • International Relations
  • The Presidency
  • Comparative Politics
  • Public Policy
  • Campaigns and Elections
  • State and Local Government
  • Political Philosophy
  • Foreign Policy

Prepare for a career that shapes our democracy

Political science is the study of who gets what, where, when and how. These decisions are impacted by laws, elections, lobbies, foreign policy, the Constitution and other factors—a fascinating mix of powerful forces. You’ll explore these influences through coursework as well as hands-on learning experiences like internships, academic teams and research opportunities.

Your career path may take you directly into the world of politics through seeking public office or working on a legislative staff. Or you may enter via advocacy, election systems, consulting, public policy, advertising or foreign service. Your degree also prepares you for graduate or law school.

Some possible paths include:

  • Public official
  • Teacher/professor
  • Lawyer
  • Journalist
  • Foreign service officer
  • Business executive
  • Social services

Columbia College Global offers traditional classroom instruction for many courses at nationwide locations. Students at nationwide locations are expected to engage with multiple learning methods, including online and virtual while completing their degree. Columbia College offers on-campus programs with traditional classroom instruction at the Residential Campus in Columbia, Missouri.

Portrait of Scooter Cougar.

Dr. Terry Smith

"Political science is such a great preparation for so many careers. And it’s terrific fun to teach – easy to make relevant to student lives and interests."

Read about Terry
View more faculty profiles

Find your path

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Questions about admissions? Call the main line.

Main line: (573) 875-8700


Want to know more about our programs? Contact the department.

Department phone: 573-875-7484
Office: STC 207
Email: HASS@CCIS.edu

Your degree starts here Take these courses

Available program formats

  • Core requirements 48 credit hours
  • Total degree requirements 120 credit hours

Some courses you may take