Free Online Political Science Courses

6 Political Science Courses

African American Studies

African American Studies explores political thought, ideologies, and movements shaping African American history and culture through critical analysis and discussions.

Capitalism: Success, Crisis and Reform

Yale University

Explore capitalism through the lens of biological evolution, focusing on its successes, crises, and potential reforms for societal improvement.

Geography of United States Elections

Stanford University

Explore the complex geography of U.S. elections, examining historical trends and challenging the simplistic Red vs. Blue narrative in this engaging, map-intensive course.

Politics, Strategy, and Game Theory

University of California, Los Angeles

This course explores game theory and strategic interactions within political contexts, providing insights into the complexities of decision-making in politics.

Presidential Politics: Race, Class, Faith & Gender in the 2008 Election

Stanford University

The course examines how race, class, faith, and gender influenced the 2008 U.S. Presidential Election, highlighting their impact on candidates and the electorate.

The Nelson A. Rockefeller Center for the Social Sciences

Dartmouth College

The Nelson A. Rockefeller Center for Social Sciences offers diverse modules exploring public policy, economics, governance, and social change through expert-led discussions and...

Political Science is a dynamic and multifaceted discipline that explores the theory and practice of politics, governance, and policy-making. It delves into the structures of power, the behavior of political actors, and the impact of political decisions on society. This subject not only equips students with a deep understanding of governmental systems but also cultivates critical thinking skills essential for analyzing current events and social issues.

At the heart of Political Science are several core areas of study, including:

Political Theory: Examining the philosophical foundations of politics, including the ideas of justice, liberty, and democracy.
Comparative Politics: Analyzing different political systems and their outcomes across countries to understand how political structures affect governance.
International Relations: Investigating the relationships between countries, including conflict, diplomacy, and international organizations.
Public Policy: Studying the processes by which policies are made and implemented, focusing on issues such as healthcare, education, and the environment.

The relevance of Political Science extends beyond the classroom. It empowers students to engage with pressing global issues such as climate change, human rights, and economic inequality. By developing strong analytical and communication skills, graduates are well-prepared for careers in various fields, including:

Government and Public Administration
Nonprofit Organizations
International Organizations
Law and Advocacy
Political Consulting and Campaign Management

Furthermore, the study of Political Science encourages civic engagement and active participation in democracy. Students learn to articulate their views, debate policies, and understand the importance of informed voting. As the political landscape continues to evolve, the insights gained from Political Science will be invaluable in shaping future leaders.