Political Science
Political scientists study political systems and public policy in the United States and other countries. They conduct research on everything from U.S. foreign relations to the politics of small towns, major cities, and at the state level. As a political scientist, you could work in various industries, conducting public opinion surveys, analyzing election results, and working directly with public officials.
If you choose to emphasize your associate degree in political science, you’re most likely planning to pursue a bachelor’s or master’s degree. The credits you earn toward your A.A. will transfer to any four-year public college or university in Colorado. This program will prepare you for continued academic study or a career in the non-profit or public sector. In addition, political science is one of the most popular majors for students wishing to continue on to law school in the future.
In this program, you will learn about how political systems work and why they look like they do. You will build your reading, writing, research, and analytic skills while studying the political world in various contexts. Classes available include an introductory course, American politics, international relations, comparative politics, state and local politics, and internship experience.
Academic support is provided through CCD's Excel Zone, which helps students succeed by offering a variety of learning opportunities. We are located on campus on the 4th floor of the Confluence building.
CCD Online offers fully online certificates and degrees, and individual online courses to help match your busy schedule. This program offers 95 percent of its degree either online or through a hybrid program.
Your first step is to see if online learning is right for you. Online and hybrid environments offer much more flexibility but require more self-direction and self-discipline. Certain work habits, learning styles and skills contribute to a successful online or hybrid learning experience.
Online Experience Questions?
303.352.6785 | TLC@ccd.edu
This program is eligible for federal financial aid.
Your first step is to connect with the Financial Aid office to discover how you can afford college. Our dedicated staff and support services help you wade through all the legal language and get you past the first hurdle to completing your educational goals.
In addition, CCD has $1,000,000 available in scholarships. Learn More!
This program is a guaranteed transfer (gT) program.
GT programs enable all college students to complete their first two years of college here at CCD and then transfer to any public college in Colorado as a junior. It is called the DWD program (Degrees with Designation). This program saves you money and time.
A Two-Year Degree from CCD Can Lead to a Four-Year Degree from:
- Adams State University
- Colorado Mesa University
- Colorado State University – Ft. Collins
- Colorado State University - Pueblo
- Fort Lewis College
- Metropolitan State University of Denver
- University of Colorado Boulder
- University of Colorado Colorado Springs
- University of Colorado Denver
- University of Northern Colorado
- Western State Colorado University
Get Involved! Campaigns are currently contacting CCD looking for summer and fall interns just like you. Contact Tammi Spicer-Dormuth to find out more!
Top 5 Reasons to Intern for a Campaign
- Introduction to the operations of local and federal politics.
- Opportunity to "test drive" a career in politics.
- Resume enhancement.
- Leadership development.
- Networking, establishing mentors and cultivating references.
Interns are often the first resource for campaigns and newly elected officials when positions become available.
Connect with employers through Handshake. Applying is easy!
- Connect with over 750,000 employers both national and local
- Access current job postings
- See all upcoming hiring events
- Streamline the application process
- Conduct outreach with employers you are interested in
What Can I Do with My Major?
Employment of political scientists is projected to grow 3 percent from 2016 to 2026, slower than the average for all occupations. Political scientists should face strong competition for jobs as the number of candidates is expected to exceed the number of available positions.
The are numerous areas you can work in with a degree in political science.
- Teaching
- Non-Profit Research
- Administration
- Public Sector Jobs
- Campaign Staff Member
- Writing
- Research
How Much Can I Expect to Earn?
The median annual wage for political scientists with a master's degree was $132,350 in May 2023.
The information provided here is by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook.