Political Science courses can help you learn about government structures, political theories, international relations, and public policy analysis. You can build skills in critical thinking, data interpretation, and effective communication, that support analyzing political systems and crafting informed arguments. Many courses introduce tools like statistical software for analyzing political data, simulation models for understanding electoral processes, and case study methods to evaluate policy impacts.

Yale University
Skills you'll gain: Political Sciences, Policy Analysis, Social Justice, Economics, Policy, and Social Studies, Social Sciences, European History, Law, Regulation, and Compliance, Governance, Ethical Standards And Conduct, Socioeconomics, Economics
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months

Università di Napoli Federico II
Skills you'll gain: Political Sciences, Policy Analysis, Critical Thinking, Research, Social Sciences, Systems Thinking, Governance, Sociology, Interactive Learning, Research Methodologies
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

University of London
Skills you'll gain: Diplomacy, International Relations, Crisis Intervention, Sustainable Development, Political Sciences, Public Policies, Social Justice, Governance, Advocacy, Policy Analysis, Human Development, World History, Case Studies
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

Università di Napoli Federico II
Skills you'll gain: International Relations, Political Sciences, Social Studies, Social Sciences, Diplomacy, World History, Research, Governance, Environmental Issue, Cultural Diversity, Intercultural Competence, Economics, Climate Change Adaptation
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

Johns Hopkins University
Skills you'll gain: Political Sciences, Policy Analysis, Social Justice, Social Sciences, Public Policies, Game Theory, Demography, Logical Reasoning, Applied Mathematics
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months

University of Amsterdam
Skills you'll gain: Sociology, Social Studies, Social Sciences, Socioeconomics, Culture, Political Sciences, Economics, Qualitative Research, Research Methodologies, Science and Research
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months

The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
Skills you'll gain: Political Sciences, Public Policies, Policy Analysis, Social Sciences, International Relations, Socioeconomics, Economics, Economic Development, Governance, Culture
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

Sciences Po
Skills you'll gain: Oil and Gas, Energy and Utilities, Climate Change Mitigation, International Relations, Environmental Issue, Electric Power Systems, Natural Resource Management, Environmental Policy, Economics, Political Sciences, Market Dynamics, Sustainable Development
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

Università di Napoli Federico II
Skills you'll gain: Political Sciences, Policy Analysis, Social Sciences, Systems Thinking, Governance, World History, Research Methodologies, Case Studies
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

The University of Edinburgh
Skills you'll gain: Liberal Arts, Political Sciences, Research, Psychology, Social Studies, Scientific Methods, Research Methodologies, Ethical Standards And Conduct
Mixed · Course · 3 - 6 Months
Utrecht University
Skills you'll gain: Lobbying, Political Sciences, Socioeconomics, Tax Laws, Social Sciences, Economics, Commercial Laws, Policy Analysis, Governance
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

O.P. Jindal Global University
Skills you'll gain: Policy Development, Political Sciences, Governance, Policy Analysis, International Relations, Public Policies, Social Justice, Economic Development, Public Administration, Law, Regulation, and Compliance, Case Studies
Build toward a degree
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Political science is the study of politics, government systems, and political behavior. It is important because it helps us understand how power and resources are distributed in society, how policies are formed, and how they affect our daily lives. By exploring political ideologies, institutions, and processes, political science equips individuals with the analytical skills needed to engage in civic life and contribute to democratic governance.
A degree in political science can open doors to various career paths. Common job roles include political analyst, public policy consultant, campaign manager, and legislative assistant. Additionally, many graduates find opportunities in international relations, non-profit organizations, and government agencies. The skills gained in political science also lend themselves well to roles in law, education, and journalism.
To succeed in political science, you should develop strong analytical and critical thinking skills. Effective communication, both written and verbal, is essential for articulating complex ideas. Research skills are also crucial, as political science often involves analyzing data and interpreting various sources. Familiarity with statistical methods and data analysis can enhance your understanding of political trends and behaviors.
Some of the best online political science courses cover a range of topics, from international relations to public policy. For instance, Chinese Politics Part 1 – China and Political Science offers insights into the political landscape of China. Other courses may focus on comparative politics, political theory, or the impact of technology on governance, providing a comprehensive understanding of the field.
Yes. You can start learning political science on Coursera for free in two ways:
If you want to keep learning, earn a certificate in political science, or unlock full course access after the preview or trial, you can upgrade or apply for financial aid.
To learn political science, start by exploring introductory courses that cover fundamental concepts. Engage with current events and political discussions to apply what you learn. Joining study groups or online forums can enhance your understanding through collaboration. Additionally, reading books and articles by political scientists can provide deeper insights into various theories and practices.
Political science courses typically cover a variety of topics, including political theory, comparative politics, international relations, public administration, and policy analysis. You may also study the role of political institutions, the impact of political behavior on society, and the influence of global issues on national politics.
For training and upskilling employees in political science, courses that focus on public policy analysis, governance, and international relations are particularly beneficial. These courses can help professionals understand the political landscape and improve their decision-making skills. Engaging in specialized programs, such as those in computational social science, can also enhance analytical capabilities relevant to the workforce.