Degree and Certificate Options
Political Science, A.A.
Transfer to pursue a degree at a 4-year college.
Purpose
2 Years
Estimated Program Length
100%
Online
What Will I Learn?
Studying political science gives students the skills to think critically about government, public policy, politics, and civic engagement. Students learn to analyze complex issues, evaluate evidence, communicate effectively, and understand how political institutions shape society.
The KCKCC Political Science program's mission is to introduce students to the study of political systems, public institutions, political behavior, and the ideas that have shaped governments throughout history. Students develop an understanding of local, national, and global political issues while gaining the analytical and research skills necessary to become informed and engaged citizens.
A variety of courses are offered that explore American government, comparative politics, international relations, political theory, and public policy. Students do not simply learn facts about government; they examine current issues, debate competing viewpoints, analyze political institutions, and investigate how public decisions affect individuals and communities. Political science faculty encourage students to ask questions, evaluate evidence, and consider multiple perspectives on important political and social issues.
Through classroom discussions, research projects, and civic learning opportunities, students gain practical experience in analyzing political questions and understanding the complexities of democratic participation. These experiences help students develop the communication, research, and leadership skills valued by universities, employers, and community organizations.
Career Path
Political science provides excellent preparation for a wide variety of careers. Students who continue their education at a four-year institution may pursue bachelor's and graduate degrees in political science, public administration, international relations, public policy, law, or related fields.
Graduates with a background in political science often pursue careers in government, public service, law, public policy, political campaigns, nonprofit organizations, international affairs, public relations, journalism, education, and business. The analytical, research, and communication skills developed through political science coursework are highly transferable and valued across many professions.
The community college provides the academic foundation for students who intend to transfer to a four-year institution and complete advanced degrees. Students interested in careers in law, public administration, public service, education, or public policy will find political science to be an excellent starting point.
Points of Pride
KCKCC's Political Science program offers small class sizes, personalized attention, and engaging discussions of contemporary and historical political issues. Students learn from faculty committed to helping them become informed citizens and successful transfer students.
Additional strengths of the program include:
- Transfer-focused coursework designed to align with bachelor's degree programs.
- Opportunities to develop research, writing, and critical thinking skills.
- Interactive classroom discussions that connect political concepts to real-world events.
- Exploration of local, national, and global political issues.
- A strong foundation for careers and further study in law, government, public policy, public service, and related fields.
*Potential salaries use third-party national and regional aggregated data, some of which may be estimates. Results may not reflect local or timely trends. Some careers listed may require additional education or degrees beyond those offered at KCKCC. Completing a program, degree, or certificate does not guarantee employment or a specific salary.