Unravel the dynamic world of politics

Explore political theories, dissect diverse government systems, and delve into international relations. You’ll gain robust research and analytical skills, probe into the nuances of political behavior, and unlock the secrets of effective public administration. Dig into political history and ethical dilemmas while honing your communication and persuasion prowess.

Whether you’re interested in working in public service, law, academia, or other sectors, an online minor in political science can help prepare you for meaningful and impactful careers by providing a strong foundation in political studies.

Learn from award-winning instructors

This program is housed in the Oregon State School of Public Policy, home to faculty who are leaders in Oregon, the nation, and the world. Research and teaching topics include collaborative governance, education policy and inequality, labor economics, constitutional law, energy policy, crime and justice, social services, rural policy, and marine and environmental studies among many other areas. 

These perspectives inform well-rounded, interdisciplinary coursework that is sure to challenge and excite.

Coursework

This 28-credit online minor includes coursework that will teach you practical skills like research and data analysis, negotiation, ethical decision making, public policy evaluation and more. You’ll learn from instructors in a department with a history of over 150 years of teaching at Oregon State University.

Curriculum details and minor requirements are available on Oregon State’s academic catalog.

Sample course topics

• Comparative politics
• Gender and the law
• Contemporary political theory
• Criminology and penology
• Public administration

Benefits of learning online with Oregon State

• All classes are developed by Oregon State's world-class faculty, who are renowned for their research, expertise and innovation.
• Oregon State is institutionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
• Oregon State Ecampus consistently ranks among the nation’s 10 best providers of online education according to U.S. News & World Report.