Political Science

The method of political science is the interpretation of life.

A major in political science can lead to a transfer to a university where one can continue work leading to a baccalaureate degree in political science, public administration or public policy. In addition, there are selected entry level positions in business and government open to the graduate with an Associate in Arts degree in Political Science. Some individuals follow the steps necessary to go beyond an undergraduate degree and enter graduate schools leading to careers in law, government service, or industry.

Duration
We offer a local Associate of Arts (AA) degree, and an Associate of Arts for Transfer Degree in Political Science. These degrees can be earned in 4 semesters if you are a full-time student and prepare you for transfer to a four-year institution.

For more information, please visit our department webpage: Political Science

Each academic plan below represents one possible pathway for the program and is for reference only. We highly encourage you to meet with a counselor to create an education plan specific to your goals! 

Sample Academic Plan

Choose your Major:

Course

Class Title

Requirement

Units

Semester 1 (semester units: 16)

English 120

College Composition & Reading

3.0

GE selection*

Select general education course

3.0

Math 160*

Elementary Statistics

B4 (List A major)

4.0

Political Science 121

Intro to U.S. Government & Politics

D (Core Major)

3.0

GE selection*

Select general education course

Semester 2 (semester units: 15)

English 124*

Adv. Composition: Critical Reason/Write

3.0

Political Science

Select from List A in the major

List A major

3.0

GE selection*

Select general education course

3.0

GE selection*

Select general education course

3.0

GE selection*

Select general education course

3.0

Semester 3 (semester units: 16)

Communications 120 or 122

Interpersonal Communication or Public Speaking

3.0

GE selection*

Select general education course

B2/ B3

4.0

Political Science

Select from List A in the major

List A major

3.0

GE selection*

Select general education course

C1 or C2

3.0

Elective*

Select any CSU or UC transferable course

3.0

Semester 4 (semester units: 15)

List B major

Select from List B in the major

List B Major

3.0

List B major

Select from List B in the major

List B major

3.0

GE selection*

Select general education course

3.0

GE selection*

Select general education course

3.0

Elective*

Select any CSU or UC transferable course

3.0

Total units: 62

*An asterisk indicates that there might be some flexibility around this course selection. Please see a counselor for more information.

Note: This is not an educational plan. Pathways for transfer to CSUs (California State Universities) can vary by institution. Students should meet with a Counselor to develop an individualized plan for your academic goal.

Explore Careers

Want to learn more about the kinds of job opportunities you'd have after completing this program? Click through the profiles below to see the different careers this major leads to, the specific skills employers are looking for, and your potential salary in that career. You can even browse current, local job openings in that field! If you're not sure what career might be for you, click here to take a survey that can help you connect your interests with specific career opportunities.

Not Sure?

Take our general academic pathway to give you time to find your passion while still meeting requirements for an associate degree. Learn More
You may also speak with a counselor, make an appointment today! Make an Appointment

Political Science

Related Information