Overview

Questions like: How does a federal republic differ from a democracy? How does a party system affect governance? These are the types of questions that political scientists explore, but they also represent issues that require ordinary citizens to make informed judgments. 

At American Public University System we offer a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science. Knowledge gained in this online program can be applied to the gaining and holding of elected positions, or to careers in government and military service or other professions where strong interpersonal and communication skills are required.

Program Objectives

In addition to the institutional and degree level learning objectives, graduates of this program are expected to achieve these learning outcomes:

• Analyze the fundamental theories and philosophies of government, governance, economy, and civil society.

• Compare and contrast the political elements of representative democracy and with other political systems.

• Assess the three institutions of government that create and implement federal policy.

• Analyze the historical evolution and contemporary manifestations of the federal system.

• Analyze the various roles of interest groups in the United States in both historical and modern democratic processes.

• Assess the impact of political parties on federal, state, and local government.

• Analyze the concept of diversity in American politics, to include gender, ethnicity, and age.