Political Ideologies
Leading political ideas and belief systems, e.g., Marxism, liberalism, conservatism, theories of democracy, and alternative futures.
Degree pathways
Earn an ASU degree
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Start at your local university
Transfer aproximately 30 courses (an estimated 90 credits)
OR
Same degree from ASU
OPT eligibility
1 year of OPT (On Campus option)
Tuition cost and Credit Transfer
Tuition estimates are based on ASU's published 2026–2027 tuition and fee rates and are subject to change. The number of credits that transfer and the length of the one-year timeline may vary by student and by home institution.
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Program description
Political Science, BA
The Bachelor of Arts in Political Science examines politics and policy at the local, national, and global levels, equipping students with the tools to connect theoretical frameworks to real-world problems while building strong research and writing abilities.
Students in the program explore how citizens engage with their governments and how governments at every level craft policies that serve, or fail to serve, their constituents. The curriculum also addresses emerging political challenges such as elections and lobbying, along with international issues including terrorism, diplomacy, and empowerment.
Curriculum
Featured courses
Comparative Government
Political institutions and processes in selected foreign countries, including origins, strengths, and weaknesses of contemporary political systems and political development.
International Political Economy
Contending approaches to historical and contemporary issues of international political economy, including global welfare, equality, ecology, and peace.
Admissions
Admission requirements
Program requirements
For admission requirements, refer to the academic unit program page. Some programs have additional requirements — check with your local Enrollment Advisor for details.
Political Science, BA, MS →Transfer applicants
International graduate and undergraduate transfer applicants should review ASU's international transfer guidance before applying.
https://admission.asu.edu/apply/international/transfer →Key admission dates & deadlines
| Program start | Spring 2027 | Fall 2027 | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Campus Immersion | Online | Campus Immersion | Online | |
| Application deadline | October 1st, 2026 | October 1st, 2026 | January 15th, 2027 | January 15th, 2027 |
| Classes start | January 11th, 2027 | January 11th, 2027 | August 19th, 2027 | August 19th, 2027 |
Outcomes
Career opportunities & applicable roles
Graduates have the skills to analyze and interpret the significance and dynamics of political events and governmental processes. This knowledge, combined with related skills, equips them for success in political or governmental careers, law school, graduate study, business and the nonprofit sector. Graduates pursue roles in the courts and judicial administration, foreign service organizations, international organizations, legislative staff organizations, lobbying and advocacy groups, and various government and media positions, as well as additional opportunities in communication, education, foreign service, journalism, law and public service through graduate study.
Career examples include
Business Analyst
Intelligence Officer
Law Clerk
Lawyer
Marketing Manager
Paralegal
Political Analyst
Politician
Public Relations Manager
Regulatory Affairs Manager
The school
The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences educates the largest student population at ASU, with more than 31,000 students, and over 90% of all ASU undergraduates take at least one of its courses.
The College hosts 21 academic units across the humanities, natural sciences and social sciences, along with more than 50 research centers and institutes that drive nationally and internationally recognized faculty- and student-led research.
Multiple schools within The College earned top spots in the 2026 U.S. News & World Report graduate rankings, and its programs prepare students for a wide range of careers.
Ready to take the next step in your career?
Complete the Request Information form and connect with an International Enrollment Advisor to explore your options.