Political Science
Associate in Arts (Transfer)
The Political Science Associate in Arts degree will prepare students to transfer to a four-year college or university to advance their studies and gain employment in the public or private sector. The program lays a good foundation for law school, public administration, campaigns and elections, and journalism.
24/7
support in the Academic Support Center
Political Science is a program designed to familiarize students with how government is structured, as well as the ways in which public policies are made. Students who complete the program will have a better understanding of how their government operates, as well as their own particular role as a citizen in a democracy.
Admissions Office
Faculty in the program have hands-on, extensive experience working in political campaigns, campaign finance, and public administration at the state and local level.
Network with other students and develop leadership skills through the ICC Student Government Association, College Democrats, Young Republicans and other college organizations.
Educator, Attorney, Public Administrator, Politician, Journalist, Lobbyist, Social Worker
COMPLETION TIME
24 Months
if Full Time
4 Semesters60 Total Credit Hours
What if I attend part-time?
Our Student Success Advisors help with an academic plan that works for you.
ESTIMATED COST
$9,600
+ supplies & fees
Based on 2024-25
What financial assistance can I receive?
Find the plan right for you by connecting with our Financial Aid office.
AVERAGE CLASS SIZE
25 Students
average per class
Small class sizes mean more individual attention and a higher rate of success.
View the College Catalog to see a complete list of classes for this program.
Meet Our Students and Alumni
We need to learn to engage in civil discourse both in and outside of the classroom. We can agree to disagree with one another, but it will be done respectfully and with evidence.
Dr. Lonetta Oliver, Professor, Dean of Humanities
How Do I Get Into the Political Science Program?
You want to learn how government works so you can be an active participant in making your community better for its citizens. Talk to an Admissions representative to learn how to get started.
- Complete our quick admissions application. It’s free and easy!
- Apply for financial aid (FAFSA).
- Apply for ICC Scholarships. Just one easy application for over hundreds of scholarships.
- High school coursework in English, history, and social studies are beneficial for this program.
- Extra curricular activities such as speech or debate club can be helpful.
What Can I Expect As a Political Science Student?
- Students will develop skills in critical thinking, analytical writing, enhanced research skills, and the ability to evaluate sources for bias.
- At the end of the course, students should have a fundamental knowledge of the U.S. Constitution.
- The program also includes a Model Illinois Government (MIG) practicum.
- Internship opportunities are available with state and local elected leaders, local government, and community agencies.
How Am I Going to Manage This?
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What if I am working while going to school?
We have you covered. Many of our students are working adults who balance life and school. We have great resources on campus to help keep you going!
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What are my options for funding my education?
Do this first: fill out and file your FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). Even if you don’t want federal aid, this document is used by many scholarship and grant programs to evaluate aid packages.
Look for scholarships and grants first because usually they don’t have to be paid back. The ICC Foundation sponsors some scholarships, and grants may be available from Illinois or federal programs. Other organizations also offer scholarships, and we can help you research those opportunities.
Federally guaranteed student loans can be a smart way to fund college. Think about your transfer plans and what your career looks like. Some sources recommend that you cap your borrowing at the level of what you (realistically!) can expect to earn at your first job after college. So, research careers and pay, too.
Of course, savings, jobs, and work-study are key parts of your budget. Your employer may offer tuition reimbursement. Find the tools to make a complete plan for paying for school.