2025 Most Affordable Online Master's Degrees in Political Science
To find an affordable online master's in political science, you must first look at the tuition rates. Choosing an affordable program can help you stay out of debt while you learn about political systems and theories, preparing for careers in academia, government, nonprofit organizations, or private sector roles that require expertise in political analysis and strategic planning.
Key Takeaways:
- Out top 10 political science master's degrees online are all below $30,220 in annual tuition, with the top 5 below $10,180.
- Sam Houston State University ranks #1 for the lowest tuition on our list — $4,804. (It also has the highest recommendation rate at 97%.)
- The University of Illinois at Springfield is ranked #2 overall for affordability. Additionally, it offers an average financial aid package of $14,175.
Eligible schools for our list must have fully online programs and institutional accreditation. We manually collect and verify tuition rates, with citations included below. For more details, review our methodology.
2025 Most Affordable Online Master's Degrees in Political Science
| Rank | School | Locations | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sam Houston State University | Huntsville (TX) | $4,804 | |
| University of Illinois at Springfield | Springfield (IL) | $7,315 | |
| American Public University System | Charles Town (WV) | $8,190 | |
| Arizona State University, Online | Tempe (AZ) (and 4 others) | $8,640 | |
| Liberty University | Lynchburg (VA) | $10,170 | |
| Sul Ross State University | Alpine (TX) | $10,293 | |
| Eastern Illinois University | Charleston (IL) | $11,016 | |
| Regent University Online | Virginia Beach (VA) | $11,468 | |
| University of Nebraska at Omaha | Omaha (NE) | $12,300 | |
| Georgia State University | Atlanta (GA) | $30,216 |
Student Reviews of Online Political Science Programs
I am in the online M.S. Political Science program. The courses so far are not very challenging but some of that could be due to my undergrad degree also being in political science. Much of the material is stuff I have covered in undergrad at another school, just with more depth and critical thinking. You are a bit 'on your own' as far as figuring stuff out. Administration and instructors are not the most responsive. I have been seeking questions about beginning my master's thesis work and haven't... Read More
Review Date: 12/19/2020
Would Recommend: Yes
I'm very satisfied with my program at Liberty University. The students and teachers are truly engaging, even in an online environment. The teachers are very positive, and they will analyze your work fairly and thoroughly. Be prepared for open and honest feedback, as this will help you grow and succeed. Don't be afraid to reach out with questions or clarification on anything, as everyone is willing to help. The courses teach the subject area which you've chosen, and occasionally will merge scripture... Read More
Review Date: 11/10/2020
Would Recommend: Yes
I'm currently enrolled in the Master's of Arts in Global Affairs program through the College of International Studies at OU. It is a perfect program for someone looking to further their education online in a field that is usually only available to study in person. With this program, you get all the convenience of getting a degree online while also getting all the credibility of a real university on your resume. The quality of education is superb while the classes are flexible and can easily fit into... Read More
Review Date: 3/16/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
I'm taking this program online and it is great! The admissions team were helpful during this process. The course curriculum is designed to fully prepare you for Government, and the Instructors take time with you. I truly enjoy this degree program.
Review Date: 3/28/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Overall, the instructors and the delivery of each individual course was both challenging and extremely rewarding. Everyone was exceedingly helpful and I never felt as though communication was an issue. The University of Arizona got distance graduate education right.
Review Date: 12/27/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
I am really enjoying my current program of study- Government with a concentration in Security Studies! I have fantastic professors who are always available for help/questions and provide excellent feedback! Overall, I'm learning tons and highly recommend it.
Review Date: 7/12/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
I am honored to be studying International Security at the American University. I am receiving practical knowledge on how to aid and serve people, without the discrimination of who they are, where they come from, or where they are located in the world. I cannot wait to pursue a successful career in International Security which will have a positive impact on the lives of people around the world.
Review Date: 2/27/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
I love the program that I am currently in. The professors are amazing and are always willing to help you out. I picked this program because I wanted to be able to have the flexibility to work and pursue my education. Since I didn't have the luxury of only attending school. I have learned a lot, and I believe that I will be prepared to pursue my career with the knowledge I have gained at this institution. Plus they're so encouraging!
Review Date: 3/21/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
I was one of the students within the first wave of students accepted into the rigorous and selective newly established Global Security MA program at Arizona State University. This program, which is comprosmised of mostly career established men, challenges the governmental and militarial division and national security threats that face America. I hope to use this degree to bridge the gap between the military and government sector, as well as influence more women of all backgrounds to explore career... Read More
Review Date: 10/3/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
I am enrolled in the National Security and Intelligence Studies graduate program at Notre Dame College in Ohio. I think that this program is very interesting and teaches you everything that can effect our national security infrastructures from a terrorist point of view.
Review Date: 11/6/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
I earned my Master of Liberal Studies in Global Affairs through the University of Denver online program. Each of the courses offered my valuable information that was applicable to not only my professional career, but also my daily life. The flexibility of the online setting meant that I could work around my schedule and still engage in the rigorous assignments. The increased autonomy of online classes mean that the student must take care to set their own routine and stick to it. Overall, I would... Read More
Review Date: 3/31/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
I'll speak for this program. The professors are great, except for the guy who taught Research Methods in 2017. I reached out to all my colleagues, and they didn't get the professor's direction either. He should have provided examples of what he was looking for. Otherwise, all the other professors are great. Dr. T. is most helpful in guiding you through to the end. Dr. B. is tough, but he will prep you well for good research and preparing your bibliography. These guys were my favorite. I highly recommend... Read More
Review Date: 4/7/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
There are not many schools that offer a Master's degree in Fire and Emergency Management like mine. It is a unique and high quality program that will provide me with many opportunities in the field of fire and emergency management. The courses can be taken online or on campus, so it is very flexible.
Review Date: 12/20/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Northeastern University CPS offers a challenging Masters in Global Studies and International Relations that fit into my busy military schedule. I have been able to work through the online coursework to finish a degree without having it negatively impact my work. I am excited to see how my new Masters will impact my job prospects moving forward.
Review Date: 2/22/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Online courses are very flexible and teachers are extremely knowledgeable. However, one major downside I experienced was with financial aid and the bookstore. I applied for a scholarship after I started my first term. I did this because I was directed by my advisor and student coach. However, after I applied I was told I was ineligible because it was after I started my first term. I put in a complaint and they apologized for the error but informed me there was nothing they could be done. I put in... Read More
Review Date: 2/28/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
The University of Arizona is a great institution to enroll in either in-person or online courses. My program in International Security was conducted exclusively online and charged a flat tuition rate for students regardless of residency. This gives students a high degree of flexibility regarding their living/working situations while taking classes. Also, the university continues to invest heavily in growing its online degree programs, therefore improving the overall experience for UA Online students.... Read More
Review Date: 12/11/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
The JHU graduate program is extremely competitive.
Review Date: 3/19/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
I loved going here. It was very straight forward. The bureaucracy of the school is made up of individuals who are not self starters. You have to stay on them (calling/emailing over and over). Outside of that aspect, it was a really great school. Cheap classes ($1000 a class for masters whereas my undergraduate was $2000 a class). The grading was fair, etc. I learned a lot. The classes are very cookie cuter. You have to understand that the rules of the assignment dictate at least 30% of your grade.... Read More
Review Date: 6/29/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
My overall experience in the MDY program was rewarding. The program itself is not easy, you will definitely need to be able to adequately manage your time. However, I found the program to be completely doable. For the most part the courses were relevant and the members of the cohort were able to change dynamics in the course given their unique experiences. I wish there were more focus on career and professional development. In fields like International Relations it is hard to make a career jump and... Read More
Review Date: 11/18/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Great school. Very difficult program. It is not for those seeking an easy degree. I am very happy about the quality of education. I have used the course work regularly in my career. It was very relevant. Highly recommend Norwich's Master of Arts in Diplomacy international terrorism concentration.
Review Date: 3/22/2016
Would Recommend: Yes