Free Online Political Science Courses

6 Political Science Courses

African American Studies

University of California, Los Angeles

An intensive introduction to African American political thought that focuses on major ideological trends and political philosophies as they have been applied and interpreted by...

Capitalism: Success, Crisis and Reform

Yale University

In this course, we will seek to interpret capitalism using ideas from biological evolution: firms pursuing varied strategies and facing extinction when those strategies fail are...

Geography of United States Elections

Stanford University

Led by Martin Lewis, this map-intensive course will explore the geography of US elections (both past and present), and challenge the suggestion that we are simply divided into...

Politics, Strategy, and Game Theory

University of California, Los Angeles

This course is an introduction to study of strategic interaction in political applications. Use of game theory and other formal modeling strategies to understand politics are also...

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

Stanford University

The 2008 U.S. Presidential Election is unprecedented. The nomination process and ongoing campaigns have revealed the complexities of identity and its role in uniting and dividing...

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:

  1. Government and Public Administration
  2. Nonprofit Organizations
  3. International Organizations
  4. Law and Advocacy
  5. 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.