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Political Science Courses

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.


Popular Political Science Courses and Certifications


  • Status: Preview
    Preview
    Y

    Yale University

    Moral Foundations of Politics

    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

    4.9
    Rating, 4.9 out of 5 stars
    ·
    6.1K reviews

    Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: Preview
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    U

    Università di Napoli Federico II

    Understanding Political Concepts

    Skills you'll gain: Political Sciences, Policy Analysis, Critical Thinking, Research, Social Sciences, Systems Thinking, Governance, Sociology, Interactive Learning, Research Methodologies

    4.9
    Rating, 4.9 out of 5 stars
    ·
    30 reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

  • Status: Preview
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    U

    University of London

    Global Diplomacy: the United Nations in the World

    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

    4.7
    Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
    ·
    1.9K reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: Preview
    Preview
    U

    Università di Napoli Federico II

    Global Politics

    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

    4.4
    Rating, 4.4 out of 5 stars
    ·
    56 reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

  • J

    Johns Hopkins University

    The Mathematics of Democracy, Politics and Manipulation

    Skills you'll gain: Political Sciences, Policy Analysis, Social Justice, Social Sciences, Public Policies, Game Theory, Demography, Logical Reasoning, Applied Mathematics

    5
    Rating, 5 out of 5 stars
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    23 reviews

    Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months

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    U

    University of Amsterdam

    Classical Sociological Theory

    Skills you'll gain: Sociology, Social Studies, Social Sciences, Socioeconomics, Culture, Political Sciences, Economics, Qualitative Research, Research Methodologies, Science and Research

    4.9
    Rating, 4.9 out of 5 stars
    ·
    3K reviews

    Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months

What brings you to Coursera today?

  • Status: Preview
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    T

    The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology

    Chinese Politics Part 1 – China and Political Science

    Skills you'll gain: Political Sciences, Public Policies, Policy Analysis, Social Sciences, International Relations, Socioeconomics, Economics, Economic Development, Governance, Culture

    4.8
    Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
    ·
    354 reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

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    S

    Sciences Po

    Politics and Economics of International Energy

    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

    4.7
    Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
    ·
    1.9K reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: Preview
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    U

    Università di Napoli Federico II

    Comparative Political Systems

    Skills you'll gain: Political Sciences, Policy Analysis, Social Sciences, Systems Thinking, Governance, World History, Research Methodologies, Case Studies

    4.4
    Rating, 4.4 out of 5 stars
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    38 reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

  • Status: Preview
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    T

    The University of Edinburgh

    Introduction to Philosophy

    Skills you'll gain: Liberal Arts, Political Sciences, Research, Psychology, Social Studies, Scientific Methods, Research Methodologies, Ethical Standards And Conduct

    4.7
    Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
    ·
    9.7K reviews

    Mixed · Course · 3 - 6 Months

  • Status: Free
    Free
    U

    Utrecht University

    Inequality and Democracy

    Skills you'll gain: Lobbying, Political Sciences, Socioeconomics, Tax Laws, Social Sciences, Economics, Commercial Laws, Policy Analysis, Governance

    4.8
    Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
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    54 reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: New
    New
    Status: Preview
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    O

    O.P. Jindal Global University

    Law, Governance, and Public Policy

    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

    4.9
    Rating, 4.9 out of 5 stars
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    10 reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

Searches related to political science

political science and international relations
chinese politics part 1 – china and political science
1234…784

In summary, here are 10 of our most popular political science courses

  • Moral Foundations of Politics : Yale University
  • Understanding Political Concepts: Università di Napoli Federico II
  • Global Diplomacy: the United Nations in the World: University of London
  • Global Politics: Università di Napoli Federico II
  • The Mathematics of Democracy, Politics and Manipulation: Johns Hopkins University
  • Classical Sociological Theory : University of Amsterdam
  • Chinese Politics Part 1 – China and Political Science: The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
  • Politics and Economics of International Energy: Sciences Po
  • Comparative Political Systems: Università di Napoli Federico II
  • Introduction to Philosophy: The University of Edinburgh

Frequently Asked Questions about Political Science

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 ‚Äì 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:

  1. Preview the first module of many political science courses at no cost. This includes video lessons, readings, graded assignments, and Coursera Coach (where available).
  2. Start a 7-day free trial for Specializations or Coursera Plus. This gives you full access to all course content across eligible programs within the timeframe of your trial.

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.‎

This FAQ content has been made available for informational purposes only. Learners are advised to conduct additional research to ensure that courses and other credentials pursued meet their personal, professional, and financial goals.

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