Political Science

The political science department is committed to the highest possible standards in teaching and facilitating learning in a student-centered environment. Political science focuses on the theory and practice of government, law, and politics at the local, state, national, and international levels. In addition to developing understanding of the principles and functions of government, political scientists explore a wide variety of forces that shape public relations. The political science program aims to increase students’ knowledge of political processes across a broad array of political systems and to cultivate valuable skills in critical analysis, qualitative and quantitative reasoning and oral and written communication. We are also dedicated to generating modes of inquiry that promote civic engagement and political participation. Political science degrees are available at the bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral levels. The specific subfields of the discipline of political science include American government and politics, comparative government and politics, international relations, political theory, public law and public administration. Graduates are poised for career opportunities across a wide array of sectors, including government, business and non-profit organizations. Students majoring in political science have traditionally pursued careers in local, state and federal positions in government, law, public policy, business, teaching, journalism, and community advocacy. Other careers the political science major prepares students for include political consultant, policy analyst, public relations specialist, international relations specialist, paralegal, legislative aide, legislative advocate, elected or appointed public official, urban planner, college professor, college student leadership officer, high school teacher, social media manager, political campaign staffer, security analyst, intelligence analyst, and diplomat. The Associate in Arts in Political Science for Transfer (AA-T) degree may be earned by completing a minimum of 60 semester units of degree credit coursework, including the major requirements and Cal-GETC requirements, with a minimum overall grade point average (GPA) of 2.0. Students must complete all courses required for the major with a minimum grade of “C” or better. The AA-T in Political Science provides students with a broad program of study designed to promote student understanding of government, public administration, law, public policy, and public relations. It is designed to help students who plan to complete a bachelor’s degree in political science at a University of California (UC) or California State University (CSU) institution and/or accredited four-year private university. Upon successful completion of the AA-T in Political Science, students are guaranteed admission to the CSU system, but not to a particular campus or major. Students transferring to a CSU campus that accepts this degree will be required to complete no more than 60 units after transfer to earn a bachelor's degree. The AA-T may not be the best option for students intending to transfer to a particular CSU campus or to a university or college that is not part of the CSU system. This degree may be used as a transfer pathway to the University of California. Students planning to transfer should contact a counselor to identify major coursework that can be used to fulfill GE requirements and for more information on college-specific transfer program requirements. Pursuant to SB1440, section 66746, a student must complete the following requirements in order to earn an AA-T in Political Science: -Complete 60 semester units that are eligible for transfer to the University of California and California State University, including the following: -The Cal-GETC requirements -A minimum of 18 semester units in the major -Obtainment of a minimum grade point average of 2.0 -Earn a grade of “C” (or “P”) or better in all courses required for the major