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Program at a Glance

Program
Bachelor
College(s)
College of Sciences
Department(s)
Pol, Scty & Intl Afrs, Schl of
4
Years
U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges - Most Innovative 2024

Examine Government in Theory and Practice

Political science is a crucial field for all citizens to understand the processes and institutions that shape the lives of people in the United States and globally. A successful democracy and economy rely upon informed and engaged citizens.

The BA in Political Science degree program provides you with a wide background in political knowledge in both American and international politics from an empirical and normative perspective. In addition to preparing you for an exciting career, you’ll explore ways that you can contribute to society and your community as a democratic citizen.

Throughout your coursework, you’ll get hands-on experience in enhancing your critical thinking and writing skills to set you on the path to success. Choose from four tracks and follow your passions and diverse interests. There are also a wide variety of electives which give you the flexibility and ability to specialize in an area that best fits your professional and personal aspirations. Plus, you can earn your political science degree online or on campus. This offers both the flexibility and convenience that you need to earn a degree in a format that works best for you.

A political science degree can lead to careers in private business, public service and law. Many of our graduates have gone on to have successful careers in local, state and national government; domestically and internationally appointed officials; private sector; legal field; and nonprofit organizations. The degree can also be a stepping stone to further education such as master’s, J.D., and Ph.D.

Program Tracks:

Man and woman walking out of courtroom

Highlights

Ranked the Best Online Bachelor’s Program in Political Science by both Affordable Colleges Online and BestColleges.com in 2021.
Choose from 4 available tracks to meet your diverse interests and future opportunities.
Salaries for political science grads start at $40,000 for legal clerks. Press secretaries have an average salary of $67,500 and intelligence analysts earn an average $86,900.

Undergraduate Application Deadlines

Fall
May 1
Spring
November 1
Summer
March 1
Fall
July 1
Spring
November 1
Summer
March 1
Fall
March 1
Spring
September 1
Summer
January 1

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Course Overview

American National Government

A study of the dynamics of American national government, including its structure, organization, powers and procedures.

The scope and methodology of political analysis. Extensive examination of the discipline, research design and methodology.

This course is designed to introduce the student to the theories and major developments in world politics, with special reference to the place of the United States in the world community.

The intelligence community structure in its relationship to foreign policy decision making, consideration of control and reliability questions, and issues of cooperation and coordination.

Political Science Skills You'll Learn

  • Gain an understanding of theoretical, empirical and methodological aspects of understanding and analyzing local and national politics, international relations and global studies.
  • Emphasize critical thinking and analysis that ensures lifelong learning.
  • Explore a variety of political knowledge, applied data analysis and writing skills.

Career Opportunities

  • Local, State, National Government
  • International Business
  • Legal Field
  • Educator
  • Lobbyist
  • Governmental Affairs

College of Sciences News

Colleges & Campus
UCF Named Top Producer for Fulbright Students for Second Year
Here are the Knights making an impact worldwide through the U.S. government’s most prestigious academic exchange program.
Colleges & Campus
¹û¶³´«Ã½ Recognizes Nine Top Faculty at 2024 Luminary Awards
The honor is designed to recognize some of UCF’s brightest stars who shine a positive light on UCF and in their respective fields.
Science & Technology
UCF Fuels America’s Space Program with Innovative Education, Medicine and Tech
¹û¶³´«Ã½ is advancing cutting-edge space research while offering unique opportunities for students to launch their careers in the space industry.
Research
Universities, Defense Agencies Collaborate on Research at Inaugural Florida Symposium Hosted by UCF
UCF and the University of South Florida facilitated a two-day symposium where faculty from Florida universities and U.S. Department of Defense research and development officers…

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