Political Science (Comparative Politics)

The Bachelor's degree in Political Science with a specialization in Comparative Politics at American Public University provides students with a comprehensive understanding of political systems, governments, and political behavior across different countries and regions. This program is designed to equip students with critical analytical skills, research capabilities, and a deep knowledge of political processes that shape our world. Through a carefully curated curriculum, students explore themes such as democracy and authoritarianism, political institutions, public policy, international relations, and the impact of political culture on societal development. The program emphasizes comparative analysis, allowing students to assess similarities and differences among political systems and to understand how historical, economic, social, and cultural factors influence political outcomes.

Students will benefit from flexible online learning formats, enabling them to study at their own pace and balance their education with personal and professional commitments. The coursework incorporates theoretical foundations, empirical research methods, and practical applications, preparing graduates for careers in government, public policy, international organizations, non-governmental organizations, academia, and private sector consultancy. Throughout the program, students develop critical thinking, effective communication, and quantitative and qualitative research skills, which are essential for analyzing complex political issues and formulating viable solutions.

Faculty members are experienced professionals and scholars in the field of Political Science, offering mentorship and guidance throughout the academic journey. The program also encourages active engagement with contemporary political debates and global challenges, fostering an understanding of the interconnectedness of regional and international political developments. Upon completion of the program, graduates will possess a nuanced perspective on comparative politics and be prepared to contribute thoughtfully and effectively to the analysis of political phenomena in a rapidly changing world. This degree aims to produce informed, responsible citizens and future leaders capable of making meaningful contributions within diverse political and social contexts.

The Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with a specialization in Comparative Politics at American Public University is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of political systems, institutions, and behaviors across different countries and regions. The program offers an in-depth exploration of political development, governmental structures, policy processes, and the socio-economic factors influencing political change worldwide. Students will examine foundational political theories, contemporary issues, and global challenges, fostering critical thinking and analytical skills essential for careers in diplomacy, international organizations, policy analysis, and research. The curriculum includes courses on comparative government, international relations, political theory, policy analysis, and research methods, allowing students to develop a well-rounded perspective on the political landscape. Emphasis is placed on understanding cultural, historical, and institutional differences that shape political systems, as well as assessing the impact of globalization on domestic and international politics. Through various assignments, discussions, and research projects, students will gain the ability to evaluate political phenomena, formulate well-supported arguments, and apply theoretical knowledge to real-world situations. The flexible online format enables students to study at their own pace while balancing professional and personal commitments. This program prepares graduates for advanced studies or entry into careers in government agencies, non-governmental organizations, international bodies, journalism, and political consultancy. With a focus on comparative analysis, students will acquire the skills necessary to analyze political developments across different contexts, enhancing their capacity to contribute meaningfully to the understanding and solving of complex political issues on a global scale. The program also encourages the development of ethical awareness and responsible citizenship, essential qualities for effective participation in democratic processes and global governance.

Program Requirements for Bachelor of Arts in Political Science (Comparative Politics) at American Public University:

To enroll in the Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with a concentration in Comparative Politics, students must meet the university’s general admission criteria, including submission of official transcripts, proof of high school graduation or equivalent, and any required standardized test scores, depending on the applicant's background. Once admitted, students are expected to complete foundational coursework that introduces core concepts of political science, research methods, and American government before specializing further.

The program requires completion of a minimum of 120 credit hours, which typically includes general education courses, core political science courses, and program-specific electives. Students should enroll in introductory courses such as POLI 114: Introduction to Political Science, which covers basic principles of political analysis. For specialization in Comparative Politics, students must take advanced courses like POLI 305: Comparative Politics, POLI 310: Government and Politics of Developing Countries, and POLI 315: Political Ideologies. These courses aim to develop students’ understanding of political systems, public policies, and governmental structures across different nations.

In addition to coursework, students are encouraged to participate in research projects, internships, or virtual simulations to enhance practical understanding and application of comparative political analysis. The program includes a capstone project where students conduct independent research on a selected comparative politics topic, demonstrating their analytical and research skills. To fulfill graduation requirements, students must earn at least a 2.0 cumulative GPA and complete all required courses with a grade of C or higher.

Elective courses allow students to expand their knowledge into related areas such as international relations, public policy, or regional studies, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of global political dynamics. Students are also required to engage with academic resources such as online library databases and participate in discussion forums to develop critical thinking skills. The program emphasizes analytical reasoning, research methodology, and an understanding of political theory from a comparative perspective, preparing graduates for careers in government, policy analysis, international organizations, or further academic study.

Throughout the program, students are supported by academic advisors who help map out their course trajectory to meet graduation deadlines. The flexible online format allows students to balance their studies with professional or personal commitments. Regular assessments, including essays, exams, and research papers, are used to evaluate progress. Overall, the program aims to cultivate informed, analytical, and globally-minded professionals capable of understanding complex political systems through comparative analysis and research.

The financing of the Political Science (Comparative Politics) program at American Public University is designed to be accessible and flexible for a diverse student body. Tuition fees are structured to provide affordable, flat-rate pricing for undergraduate and graduate courses, allowing students to plan financially over the entire duration of their studies. Specifically, the university offers a per-credit-hour tuition model, with current rates accessible on their official website, which enables students to calculate total costs based on their expected course load. Additionally, the university often provides financial aid options, including federal student aid for eligible students, scholarships, and military funding for service members and veterans. There are also institutional scholarships based on merit or need, which students can apply for through the university’s financial aid office.

American Public University works to ensure transparency in billing and provides detailed information about additional costs such as textbooks, which are typically available in electronic format for purchase or rental at reduced prices, contributing to overall affordability. The university also offers payment plans to distribute tuition payments across multiple installments, reducing the financial burden and providing greater flexibility. International students, when applicable, should consider additional international fees or exchange rate considerations, although the university strives to keep costs consistent regardless of location.

Financial support resources include access to advising services that assist students with financial planning and understanding their options. The university’s online accessibility makes it easier for students to manage their finances remotely, with 24/7 support for billing and financial aid questions. Overall, the financing model of the Political Science (Comparative Politics) program emphasizes affordability, transparency, and student support to facilitate successful completion of their degrees without excessive financial stress.

The Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with a concentration in Comparative Politics at American Public University offers students an in-depth understanding of political systems, government institutions, and political behavior across different countries. The program is designed to equip students with critical thinking, analytical skills, and comprehensive knowledge about political processes in a global context. The curriculum covers core topics such as political theory, international relations, comparative government, and public policy, providing a broad foundation for understanding how political systems operate in various cultural and societal environments. Students will explore themes like democracy and authoritarianism, political institutions, political ideologies, and policy analysis through a comparative lens. The program prepares graduates for careers in government, international organizations, diplomatic service, public policy, and political analysis, as well as for further academic study in political science or related fields. Coursework typically involves a mixture of lectures, research projects, exams, and writing assignments, encouraging active engagement and critical discussion. American Public University utilizes an online learning platform, allowing students flexibility to complete their coursework remotely while interacting with faculty and peers via forums, webinars, and virtual office hours. The program emphasizes research methodology, enabling students to design and conduct political research and analyze data relevant to comparative politics. Graduates will be able to evaluate political systems critically and contribute to policy development, analysis, and advocacy efforts effectively. Overall, the program aims to develop well-informed, globally minded individuals capable of understanding and influencing political processes across different nations and cultures.