Top 5 Online Master's Programs in Political Science

A ranking of the best master's in political science online. Programs ranked by affordability, flexibility, and academic quality.

Updated October 12, 2022 · 2 Min Read

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In this turbulent political climate, there is increased interest in earning higher degrees in the political arena. Many schools are tailoring their degree programs to suit the growing, current interests of its applicants. Many students select distance learning as a means to earn a higher degree in political science; an online political science master's can have a wide range of specialty focus areas. For more general information regarding online learning, visit our ranking of the top online colleges.

In determining the order of this ranking, we awarded points based on:

  • Strong political science online master's academics that reflect current topics in the field (1-5 points)
  • Quality of online classroom portal and resources (1-5 points)
  • Career-building features in the poli sci online master's; these features may include fieldwork opportunities or direct network connections  (1-5 points)
  • Flexibility of the online political science master's degree track (1-3)
  • An additional point was awarded for significant features that made it a top political science masters online.

In the event of a tie in points, the school with the lower net price appears higher in the ranking.

Tuition data was sourced from the official website of each respective college.

Featured Online Schools

The following list of ranked colleges represents the top 5 master's in political science degree online.

#1 – Virginia Tech

Master’s in Political Science Online

Program Website

Points: 18

Program Tuition: $1,595.00 per-credit-hour

One of the most respected schools in the country, Virginia Tech receives accolades for its faculty and academic excellence. This college has a 17:1 student-to-faculty ratio, ensuring students receive a personalized education experience. Virginia Tech’s online degrees are increasingly popular, among them, a top master’s in poli sci online; VT established this political science degree in 1969 and has since evolved its curriculum to reflect current theories and career prospects. Graduates of VT’s political science master’s online find careers in government agencies, research institutes, political organizations, non-profits, among other relevant settings.

#2 – Northeastern University

Online Political Science Masters: Global Studies and International Relations

Program Website

Points: 17

Program Tuition: $22,061.00

Among the nations most respected institutions, Northeastern University ranks with the best in academics. For students pursuing an internationally focused degree, Northeastern has a 100% online MS in global studies and international relations; this degree is an excellent option for online political science master’s students, particularly those who want to further specialize their career. Northeastern has an expansive global network, providing promising connections in field study, post-graduation job placement, advisement, and much more.

#3 – University of Nebraska at Omaha

Political Science Master’s Program Online

Program Website

Points: 17

Program Tuition: $400.00 per credit-hour

Affordable and military-friendly, the University of Nebraska at Omaha has high-achieving faculty and students. The political science masters online is an interdisciplinary degree, and students can choose a thesis or non-thesis degree track. Political science students have the option of concentrating in international affairs or adding graduate certificates in intelligence and national security or global information options. Typically, students complete the top political science masters within two years, and Omaha will accept of to 12 approved transfer credits.

#4 – Central Michigan University

Online Master of Political Science

Program Website

Points: 16

Program Tuition: $575.00 per-credit-hour

A nationally respected institution, Central Michigan University is an expansive academic opportunity. This popular college offers over 300 academic programs, many of which can be attained via distance-learning. CMU has an online masters of public administration, a degree suited for those who want an affordable political science degree online; this top political science master’s covers coursework in public policy, organization theory, program analysis, public service, among others. As an added advantage, online public administration students complete a hands-on internship in government and politics.

#5 – Norwich University

Online Master’s in Political Science: MA in Diplomacy

Program Website

Points: 16

Program Tuition: $750.00 per-credit-hour

The nation’s oldest private military college, Norwich University values rigorous academics, loyalty, and confidence. For students seeking an online master’s in political science, Norwich offers an eighteen-month MA in diplomacy; this challenging degree program offers courses in the history of diplomacy, law and the international system, cross-cultural management, economics, and more. Norwich’s diplomacy master’s concludes with a required campus residency; this residency serves as an opportunity to connect with peers, network, and attend concluding ceremonies. Norwich has a diverse faculty of instructors, all of whom have expertise in the field.

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