Politics, Policy, and Public Administration FAQs

The B.A. degree requires foreign language credits, while the B.S. degree requires additional science credits instead of the foreign language requirement. Both degrees provide the same comprehensive foundation in public service and prepare you for the same career opportunities.

EOU operates on rolling admissions, meaning applications are accepted and reviewed throughout the year. This provides flexibility for students to start when it’s convenient for them.  

SAT or ACT scores are not required for admission to the online Bachelor’s in Politics, Policy and Public Administration program.

The program requires 180 total quarter credit hours to graduate. You may be able to transfer up to 135 credit hours from a previous college or university.

The in-depth coursework covers political issues, policy processes and administrative aspects of public service. Core courses include Democracy & Public Service, American National Government, Rural Governance, and Budgetary Politics & Process. View all course requirements and elective choices on the curriculum details page.

Through the program, you will be able to lead and manage in public governance, participate and contribute to the policy process, analyze and solve problems critically, articulate a public service perspective, and communicate productively with diverse workforces and citizenry. This breadth of public service knowledge is essential for individuals seeking to serve in public administration roles.

While the program emphasizes hands-on learning and real-world application, specific internship requirements vary. The program includes opportunities for practical experience that connect you with community organizations and professional opportunities in public service. Learn more about required coursework and practicum on the course details page.

Yes, the Bachelor’s in Politics, Policy and Public Administration is offered entirely online with no on-campus requirements. This allows you to study in the times and locations that are best for you throughout your entire program without ever coming to campus, providing maximum flexibility for working professionals, parents, and students with other commitments.

Yes, you’ll have access to the same professors, content and opportunities as on-campus students while learning online in a creative digital format. Our professors work on campus and are experts trained to deliver innovative, engaging online education. You’ll also have access to academic advising, tutoring services, library resources, and other student support services.

Yes, online students receive the same high-quality education, access to faculty, and learning opportunities as on-campus students. The curriculum and degree requirements are identical, and online courses are specifically designed for the digital learning environment. Online students receive the same diploma and transcript as on-campus students.

Graduates of this public administration degree have the opportunity to make a difference in a variety of growing careers. You’ll be prepared for roles such as urban and regional planners, policy analysts, administrative services managers, community development managers, city managers, government relations managers, and public affairs specialists. The bachelor’s degree in politics, policy and public administration will prepare you for roles in local, state and federal government.

Yes, the program provides excellent preparation for graduate studies in public administration (MPA), public policy (MPP), law, and related fields. EOU also offers a direct pathway through the 3+2 accelerated program to earn your Master of Public Administration in just five years total.

The 3+2 pathway is an accelerated combined degree program designed for ambitious students ready to advance their careers in public administration and nonprofit management. This pathway allows you to earn both your Bachelor’s and Master of Public Administration degrees through a single learning pathway, finishing in as few as five years and saving both time and tuition costs.

Yes, the bachelor’s degree in politics, policy and public administration will prepare you for roles in local, state and federal government. This program is specifically designed to provide you with the knowledge and skills needed for public service careers across all levels of government and nonprofit organizations.

Approximately 92% of online students receive financial aid and scholarships. Options include federal grants and loans, state grants, scholarships, employer tuition benefits, military benefits, and payment plans. View more information about options available on the tuition and financial aid page.

Yes, EOU offers various scholarships for online students including Transfer Student Scholarship, Active Duty Scholarship, and Veterans United Foundation Scholarship. Contact the financial aid office to learn about current scholarship opportunities and application requirements. EOU also offers a PTK Scholarship to eligible members of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society.

Online students have access to a number of support services including academic advising, career counseling, financial aid counseling, disability services, testing services, library resources, research assistance, tutoring services, technical support, and mental health and counseling services. View more on the online student experience page.

Academic advisors are available via phone, email, and video conferencing. You’ll be assigned an advisor who will help you plan your academic path and ensure you’re meeting degree requirements.

Online students have full access to EOU’s library resources including digital databases, e-books, research assistance, and interlibrary loan services.

Yes, Eastern Oregon University is regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU). Regional accreditation is the gold standard ensuring your degree is recognized by employers and graduate schools nationwide.

Yes, EOU’s regional accreditation ensures your degree will be recognized and respected by employers, graduate schools, and other institutions. The online degree is the same as the on-campus degree.

Yes, you can transfer up to 15 quarter credits from previous graduate coursework into the MPA program. EOU offers a free transfer credit review to evaluate your prior graduate work and determine how many credits can be applied to your degree. Learn more on the admissions page.

Eastern Oregon University online degree programs admission requirements include a 2.5 GPA requirement for high school and a 2.25 GPA for college, if transferring college credits. Students with AAOT/ASOT have a 2.0 GPA requirement. Additionally, all transcripts from previously attended institutions, completed application, and the application fee are required. Additional admissions requirements may vary depending upon the degree specifics.

The cost per credit hour is $329 with a total program cost of $59,148 if no course credits are transferred. This calculation is based on the required 180 quarter credit hours for graduation. Fully online students are subject to a one-time matriculation fee of $250. You can learn more on the program tuition page.