The Bachelor of Political Science (BS) program provides students with valuable, comprehensive knowledge of government and global politics, preparing them to analyze complex political problems and recognize potential solutions in both the public and private sector. The Bachelor of Political Science (BS) program is offered online via distance learning. After evaluating both academic record and life experience, AIU staff working in conjunction with Faculty and Academic Advisors will assist students in setting up a custom-made program, designed on an individual basis. This flexibility to meet student needs is seldom found in other distance learning programs. Our online program does not require all students to take the same subjects/courses, use the same books, or learning materials. Instead, the online Bachelor of Political Science (BS) curriculum is designed individually by the student and academic advisor. It specifically addresses strengths and weaknesses with respect to market opportunities in the student’s major and intended field of work. Understanding that industry and geographic factors should influence the content of the curriculum instead of a standardized one-fits-all design is the hallmark of AIU’s unique approach to adult education. This philosophy addresses the dynamic and constantly changing environment of working professionals by helping adult students in reaching their professional and personal goals within the scope of the degree program.
Important: Below is an example of the topics or areas you may develop and work on during your studies. By no means is it a complete or required list as AIU programs do not follow a standardized curriculum. It is meant solely as a reference point and example. Want to learn more about the curriculum design at AIU? (Course and Curriculum)
Public Administration
Organizational Behavior
Presidency
Legislation
Government
Foundations
Research Methods
Political Theory
Quantitative Methods
20th Century Political Thought
West European Politics
East European Politics
Middle Eastern Politics
Asian Politics
Political Protest & Revolutions
International Relations
International Law
Foreign Policy
World Politics
Judicial Systems
Orientation Courses:
Communication & Investigation (Comprehensive Resume)
Organization Theory (Portfolio)
Experiential Learning (Autobiography)
Seminar Administrative Development (Book Summary)
Seminar Cultural Development (Practical Experience)
Seminar International Development (Publications)
Research Project in Political Science:
Bachelor Thesis Project
MBM300 Thesis Proposal
MBM302 Bachelor Thesis (5,000 words)
Publication: Each Bachelor of Political Science graduate is encouraged to publish their research papers either online in the public domain or through professional journals and periodicals worldwide.
Career Center Bachelor of Political Science
Job Description
Political scientists are social scientists who study government and politics. They analyze many areas of political behavior, including voting, public opinion, taxation, and public administration. Knowledgeable in different forms of government that have existed throughout history, such as democracies, republics, and monarchies, political scientists also examine the ideas and theories behind these political systems. They analyze the structure and operation of governments at all levels, and the effects that these governments have on the people who live under them. Political scientists also study the patterns, sources, and psychology of political power. They collect large amounts of information and then try to organize it into a theory or system that will explain some area of politics or government. Political scientists often make use of computerized data in the course of their work.
Skills Obtained
Political scientists often read books, look up facts in libraries, study voting records, survey public opinion, analyze proposed legislation or laws already passed, interview public officials, and observe political meetings. They usually write reports, articles, or books on their findings. They may also give lectures and oral reports to legislative staffs or committees.
Employment Opportunities
The majority of all political scientists are employed by colleges and universities. They do research and teach political science. Sometimes they also teach related subjects, such as economics or history, especially in smaller colleges. Other political scientists work for government agencies. Some work in state capitals or overseas. The remainder of political scientists work either as consultants or full-time staff members for political or research organizations, civic associations, labor unions, large private companies, management consulting firms, radio and television stations, newspapers, or magazines.
People with a bachelor's degree in political science can get jobs as management trainees or research assistants.
Professional Associations
The American Political Science Association (APSA)
Public Choice Society (PCS)
American Association for Public Opinion Research (AAPOR)
Resources and Tools
Political Science Resources
