• For Individuals
  • For Businesses
  • For Universities
  • For Governments
Coursera
  • Online Degrees
  • Careers
  • Log In
  • Join for Free
    Coursera
    • Browse
    • Political Science

    Political Science Courses

    Political science courses can help you learn how governments function, how policies are made, and how political systems shape societies around the world.

    Skip to search results

    Filter by

    Subject
    Required
     *

    Language
    Required
     *

    The language used throughout the course, in both instruction and assessments.

    Learning Product
    Required
     *

    Build job-relevant skills in under 2 hours with hands-on tutorials.
    Learn from top instructors with graded assignments, videos, and discussion forums.
    Learn a new tool or skill in an interactive, hands-on environment.
    Get in-depth knowledge of a subject by completing a series of courses and projects.
    Earn career credentials from industry leaders that demonstrate your expertise.
    Earn career credentials while taking courses that count towards your Master’s degree.
    Earn your Bachelor’s or Master’s degree online for a fraction of the cost of in-person learning.
    Complete graduate-level learning without committing to a full degree program.
    Earn a university-issued career credential in a flexible, interactive format.

    Level
    Required
     *

    Duration
    Required
     *

    Skills
    Required
     *

    Subtitles
    Required
     *

    Educator
    Required
     *

    Find the Best Political Science Course for Your Goals

    • Status: Free Trial
      Free Trial
      D

      Duke University

      Introduction to Probability and Data with R

      Skills you'll gain: Sampling (Statistics), Exploratory Data Analysis, Statistical Inference, Probability Distribution, Bayesian Statistics, R Programming, Data Analysis, Probability, Statistics, Statistical Software, Descriptive Statistics

      4.7
      Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
      ·
      5.8K reviews

      Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

    • Status: Free Trial
      Free Trial
      Status: AI skills
      AI skills
      M

      Meta

      Meta Data Analyst

      Skills you'll gain: Data Storytelling, Business Metrics, Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), Data Management, Data Collection, Data Governance, Bayesian Statistics, Data Analysis, Descriptive Statistics, Statistical Hypothesis Testing, Information Privacy, Data Cleansing, Pandas (Python Package), Statistical Inference, Data Visualization Software, Spreadsheet Software, Correlation Analysis, Google Sheets, Exploratory Data Analysis, Data Modeling

      4.7
      Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
      ·
      1.4K reviews

      Beginner · Professional Certificate · 3 - 6 Months

    • S

      Stanford University

      Understanding Einstein: The Special Theory of Relativity

      Skills you'll gain: Physics, Timelines, Verification And Validation, Scientific Methods, Research, Mechanics, Mathematical Modeling, Systems Of Measurement

      4.9
      Rating, 4.9 out of 5 stars
      ·
      3.1K reviews

      Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

    • O

      O.P. Jindal Global University

      Power and Foreign Policy in International Relations

      Skills you'll gain: International Relations, Diplomacy, Political Sciences, World History, Policy Analysis, Economics, Governance, Security Strategy

      4.7
      Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
      ·
      281 reviews

      Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

    • C

      Clemson University

      Master of Science in Computer Science

      Skills you'll gain:

      Earn a degree

      Degree · 1 - 4 Years

    • U

      University of Colorado Boulder

      Master of Science in Data Science

      Skills you'll gain: Object Oriented Design, User Story, Real-Time Operating Systems, Model Based Systems Engineering, Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA), New Product Development, Delegation Skills, Failure Analysis, Sampling (Statistics), Supplier Management, Sustainability Reporting, Accountability, Data Ethics, Data Mining, Statistical Modeling, Unsupervised Learning, Supervised Learning, Goal Setting, Generative AI, Process Capability

      Earn a degree

      Degree · 1 - 4 Years

    • Status: Free Trial
      Free Trial
      U

      University of California San Diego

      Data Structures

      Skills you'll gain: Data Structures, Algorithms, Data Storage, Programming Principles, Computer Programming, C++ (Programming Language), Theoretical Computer Science, File Management

      4.6
      Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
      ·
      5.5K reviews

      Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months

    • Status: New
      New
      U

      University of Colorado Boulder

      Introduction to Bayesian Statistics for Data Science

      Skills you'll gain: Bayesian Statistics, Statistical Inference, Statistical Modeling, Predictive Analytics, Statistical Methods, Data Ethics, Data Science, Probability, Regression Analysis, Analytical Skills, Probability Distribution

      Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months

    • U

      University of Colorado Boulder

      Master of Science in Computer Science

      Skills you'll gain: Object Oriented Design, User Story, Real-Time Operating Systems, Model Based Systems Engineering, Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA), New Product Development, Delegation Skills, Failure Analysis, Sampling (Statistics), Supplier Management, Sustainability Reporting, Accountability, Data Ethics, Data Mining, Statistical Modeling, Unsupervised Learning, Supervised Learning, Goal Setting, Generative AI, Process Capability

      Earn a degree

      Degree · 1 - 4 Years

    • D

      Duke University

      Introduction to Genetics and Evolution

      Skills you'll gain: Life Sciences, Molecular Biology, Biology, Biostatistics, Bioinformatics, Environment, Laboratory Research, Taxonomy, Scientific Methods, Experimentation, Mathematical Modeling

      4.8
      Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
      ·
      1.8K reviews

      Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months

    • Status: New
      New
      C

      Clemson University

      Applied Data Science

      Skills you'll gain: Dimensionality Reduction, Data Cleansing, Matplotlib, Regression Analysis, Unsupervised Learning, Data Science, Statistical Analysis, Statistical Methods, Descriptive Statistics, Data Analysis, Data Visualization Software, Applied Machine Learning, Pandas (Python Package), Big Data, Data-Driven Decision-Making, Exploratory Data Analysis, Predictive Modeling, Machine Learning Algorithms, Machine Learning, Supervised Learning

      Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months

    • Status: New
      New
      T

      The University of Edinburgh

      Observing Earth From Space

      Skills you'll gain: Environmental Monitoring, Spatial Data Analysis, Geospatial Information and Technology, Geospatial Mapping, Environment, Geographic Information Systems, Environment and Resource Management, Data Ethics, Environmental Science, Image Analysis, Continuous Monitoring, Data Collection, Forecasting

      Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

    Searches related to political science

    chinese politics part 1 – china and political science
    1…313233…640

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

    • Introduction to Probability and Data with R: Duke University
    • Meta Data Analyst: Meta
    • Understanding Einstein: The Special Theory of Relativity: Stanford University
    • Power and Foreign Policy in International Relations: O.P. Jindal Global University
    • Master of Science in Computer Science: Clemson University
    • Master of Science in Data Science: University of Colorado Boulder
    • Data Structures: University of California San Diego
    • Introduction to Bayesian Statistics for Data Science: University of Colorado Boulder
    • Master of Science in Computer Science: University of Colorado Boulder
    • Introduction to Genetics and Evolution: Duke University

    Why Learn Political Science?

    Political science explores power, governance, public policy, and global affairs—examining how decisions are made and how they affect people’s lives. It combines critical thinking, research, and communication to understand political systems and social change. Learning political science can help you engage more deeply in civic life, pursue careers in law or policy, and analyze issues shaping the world today.

    Frequently Asked Questions about Political Science

    Top options include Political Economy of Institutions and Development from Universiteit Leiden, Moral Foundations of Politics from Yale University, and Understanding Political Concepts from the Università di Napoli Federico II. These courses explore political theory, governance, global politics, and public institutions.‎

    Yes. Many political science courses offer a free audit option, which allows you to access video lectures and readings at no cost. To complete assignments or earn a certificate, you’ll need to upgrade or apply for financial aid.‎

    You’ll learn how governments function, how political systems are structured, and how public policy is created and implemented. Topics may also include political ideologies, international relations, comparative politics, and the role of institutions and citizens in shaping political outcomes.‎

    No prior background is required for most introductory courses. Many are designed for general learners and start with foundational concepts. More advanced or specialized courses may build on prior knowledge in law, economics, or history.‎

    Yes. These courses are valuable for learners preparing for university study, professionals in public service, educators, or anyone interested in policy, governance, or international affairs. Earning a certificate can support applications for academic programs or enhance your understanding of current global issues.‎

    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.

    Other topics to explore

    Arts and Humanities
    338 courses
    Business
    1095 courses
    Computer Science
    668 courses
    Data Science
    425 courses
    Information Technology
    145 courses
    Health
    471 courses
    Math and Logic
    70 courses
    Personal Development
    137 courses
    Physical Science and Engineering
    413 courses
    Social Sciences
    401 courses
    Language Learning
    150 courses

    Coursera Footer

    Technical Skills

    • ChatGPT
    • Coding
    • Computer Science
    • Cybersecurity
    • DevOps
    • Ethical Hacking
    • Generative AI
    • Java Programming
    • Python
    • Web Development

    Analytical Skills

    • Artificial Intelligence
    • Big Data
    • Business Analysis
    • Data Analytics
    • Data Science
    • Financial Modeling
    • Machine Learning
    • Microsoft Excel
    • Microsoft Power BI
    • SQL

    Business Skills

    • Accounting
    • Digital Marketing
    • E-commerce
    • Finance
    • Google
    • Graphic Design
    • IBM
    • Marketing
    • Project Management
    • Social Media Marketing

    Career Resources

    • Essential IT Certifications
    • High-Income Skills to Learn
    • How to Get a PMP Certification
    • How to Learn Artificial Intelligence
    • Popular Cybersecurity Certifications
    • Popular Data Analytics Certifications
    • What Does a Data Analyst Do?
    • Career Development Resources
    • Career Aptitude Test
    • Share your Coursera Learning Story

    Coursera

    • About
    • What We Offer
    • Leadership
    • Careers
    • Catalog
    • Coursera Plus
    • Professional Certificates
    • MasterTrack® Certificates
    • Degrees
    • For Enterprise
    • For Government
    • For Campus
    • Become a Partner
    • Social Impact
    • Free Courses
    • ECTS Credit Recommendations

    Community

    • Learners
    • Partners
    • Beta Testers
    • Blog
    • The Coursera Podcast
    • Tech Blog
    • Teaching Center

    More

    • Press
    • Investors
    • Terms
    • Privacy
    • Help
    • Accessibility
    • Contact
    • Articles
    • Directory
    • Affiliates
    • Modern Slavery Statement
    • Manage Cookie Preferences
    Learn Anywhere
    Download on the App Store
    Get it on Google Play
    Logo of Certified B Corporation
    © 2025 Coursera Inc. All rights reserved.
    • Coursera Facebook
    • Coursera Linkedin
    • Coursera Twitter
    • Coursera YouTube
    • Coursera Instagram
    • Coursera TikTok