Political Science

Political science

Enter the political science field by earning a cost-effective degree that will help you successfully continue to a four-year institution – and beyond.

Through Stark State’s associate degree program, you will:

  • Gain a keen understanding of government structure, the intricacies of politics, basic political theory and practical application in public administration.
  • Develop a working knowledge of the international political scene.
  • Get engaged in current issues.
  • Become equipped with academic and reasoning skills.
  • Choose elective courses – like an internship – that give you a hands-on knowledge of political systems.

This degree prepares you to transfer to a university bachelor’s degree program in political science, public administration or pre-law. Along with transfer options, you could gain employment in different areas of state or local government, including the board of elections, county and municipal courts, the local health department, the county housing department, auditor’s office or the zoning department.

Work in many areas, including
(may include, but not limited to):

  • civil service
  • court systems
  • public services
  • social science research

Prepare for a career as a
(may include, but not limited to):

  • state or local government employee

Median income statistics*
Nationally, the median annual salary for state and local government employees with an associate degree is $54,000 (local) to $58,000 (state).

*US BLS, 2020

Prepare for transfer/further education for a
career as a

(may include, but not limited to):

  • politician
  • political analyst
  • issue advocate
  • political researcher
  • lawyer
  • economist

 

Your pathway to a degree

Associate degree

  • Associate of arts in political science

Program learning outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student should be able to:

  • Demonstrate knowledge of federal, state, and foreign governments and politics.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of public administration.
  • Analyze and assess policy making.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of political theories through critical inquiry.
  • Effectively communicate information and knowledge, both orally and in writing.

Join student organizations

  • Student government association
  • Student ambassadors program
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