The Political Science program examines the power and process involved with politics and government. Classes focus on a variety of political ideas and theories both within the United States government and abroad.
Whether you plan to be a political science major or have an interest in taking a political science course to fulfill an elective, you'll learn to assess arguments, think independently and communicate clearly.
Determine Your Path
Political science courses prepare you for a variety of political science careers in non-profit, for-profit or private organizations.
You want to attend a college that stands out from the rest. At COD, you'll discover:
- Dedicated instructors with years of professional, research and publication experience.
- Instruction utilizing top-notch facilities, equipment and resources.
- Affordable programs to help students achieve success without creating overwhelming debt or draining a savings account.
- Small class sizes that ensure students receive personalized attention.
Political Science Intended Major
The Political Science, Associate in Arts degree combines courses in communication, social and behavioral sciences, humanities and other areas with political science courses. This provides students pursuing a bachelor's degree in Political Science with a two-year foundation of coursework.
COD Stories
"I came to College of DuPage because I couldn’t afford anything else. But I stayed at College of DuPage because I wanted to be the voice for those kids who think that they have lost all hope in the world.” - Allison Schraub
Allison's COD StoryCOD Stories
“I am forever grateful to the Political Science program and professors such as Maureen Heffern-Ponicki. They teach the subject with passion and connect lessons to events that are happening in real time.” - Devin Oommen
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"In the long run, I hope I can work for the betterment of local communities and urban areas to help them achieve their fullest potential. I want people to know that there are individuals out there working toward making their lives secure economically and socially." - Tiffany Cuevas
Tiffany's COD StoryCOD Stories
"If I hadn’t gone to COD, I would not have received the encouragement from my professors to apply to more competitive and prestigious schools, and I would be on a very different path from the one I’m on now." - Olyvia Lennox
Olyvia's COD StoryCOD Stories
"College of DuPage was the new beginning I needed after high school to reboot myself and embark on my academic journey. I have been able to accomplish so much because of the resources I was given at COD." - Amira Abuarqoub
Amira's COD StoryGet Started Today
The first step to getting started in Political Science is to apply for admission.
Academic and Career Pathways give you a roadmap to achieving your career goals. Follow a pathway based on your degree that outlines which classes you need to take and when so you graduate on time or move on to the next phase in your career.
Students who complete courses in political science will:
- Develop six discipline-specific knowledge, skills, and abilities with substantive knowledge of the five subfields of political science.
- Develop professional communication abilities in writing and oral expression.
- Develop critical thinking and research skills leading to the ability to understand, design and carry out research.
- Prepare for fulfilling the obligations of citizenship, including means of political participation and the development of informed policy opinions.
College of DuPage has several political science transfer agreements in place with four-year colleges and universities to save you time, money and make the transfer process easier.
Many of these agreements with other colleges and universities have specific course requirements and a pre-determined course plan that needs to be followed to be eligible to transfer. Contact a program faculty member or academic advisor to learn more as course requirements vary by institution.
Career Information
Explore careers based on your interest, location and salary range or view top occupations by income.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to your frequently asked questions regarding the Political Science program.
You will learn how to identify problems and policy solutions, develop political thinking skills, data analysis and written and verbal communication skills. Watch a video to learn more about political science.
You can take any path with a political science degree. You can work for state and local government, international organizations, work in the private sector, teach or continue on to law school.
