Political Science

Political Science AA-T

The Associate in Arts in Political Science for Transfer degree is designed to provide the opportunity to achieve an associate degree in the student’s area of specialization. The Associate in Arts in Political Science for Transfer degree is designed to prepare students for a seamless transfer into the CSU system to complete a baccalaureate degree in Political Science or similar major. While a baccalaureate degree is recommended preparation for those considering professional careers in this field, the completion of this program will demonstrate commitment to the field, and provide comprehensive preparation for upper division work. Upon completion of the Associate in Arts in Political Science for Transfer degree requirements, students will begin preparation for careers such as teaching, law, local, state, and federal government, and group advocacy.

Program Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the program, students will be able to:

  • demonstrate the ability to research and write papers or essays without bias
  • demonstrate an understanding of what is the purpose of government.
  • demonstrate an understanding of how governments interact with each other.
  • identify between the different ideologies within the united states and around the world.
  • identify the different types of governments around the world.

Associate Degree for Transfer requirements (pursuant to SB 1440):

  • Complete a minimum of 18 semester units in a major or area of emphasis
  • Complete IGETC or CSU General Education – Breadth requirements
  • Complete total of 60 CSU transferable semester units
  • Complete all required courses for the major or area of emphasis with a “C” or better
  • Obtain an overall minimum grade point average of 2.0
Course # Title Units
Required Core Courses
POLSCI-001 Introduction to American Government
POLSCI-002 Comparative Government
POLSCI-004 Introduction to International Relations
MATH-025 Elementary Statistics
Choose two courses below, 6 units
AOJ-001 Introduction to Criminal Justice
GEOG-003 Cultural Geography
HIST-004A Western Civilization to 1700
HIST-004B Western Civilization from 1700
HIST-017A History of the U.S. 1492-1877
HIST-017B History of the U.S. 1865-Present
PSYCH-002 Abnormal Psychology
SOC-001 Introduction to Sociology
SOC-002 Critical Thinking Social Problems
SOC-003 Marriage and Family
Total 19
CSU-GE-B or IGETC requirements (allowing double counting) 37-39
CSU Transferable Electives 14-19
Total 60

This is a recommended sequence of courses for timely completion of this program. Entry in to transfer level English and math is required to follow this recommended sequence. Please see your counselor to formalize your personalized educational plan or for alternative planning.

  • SEMESTER 1
  • ENG-001A
  • MATH-025
  • COM-001/0043
  • POLSCI-001
  • IS-001
  • 16
  • SEMESTER 2
  • POLSCI-004
  • Area A33
  • Area B14
  • Area C13
  • ELECTIVE-001-0493
  • 16
  • SEMESTER 3
  • POLSCI-0023
  • HIST-017A/B3
  • BIO-010/0153
  • POLSCI MAJOR3
  • Area C23
  • 15
  • SEMESTER 4
  • Area C1/23
  • ELECTIVE-001-04910
  • 13