Associate of Arts - Political Science

The College of Alameda offers an Associate of Arts in Political Science.

Upon completion of this program a student will be able to: • Demonstrate a degree of knowledge mastery representing the state of the discipline of political science {theoretical and practical knowledge of the historical background and the foundational principles of government and governance (utilizing: description, definition, summarization & explanation )}; and a working knowledge of these in use; with respect to inter-relatedness of humans in the environment, engaging with people from diverse backgrounds, and in understanding and acknowledging the significance of daily individual and social actions relative to global issues and the emergence of shared future.

• Demonstrate a degree of critical political thinking proficiency; as a set of at the life skills applied knowledge of the political grounded in futures consciousness; thus enabling one to better access, evaluate, and interpret ideas found in political philosophy and theory and information enabling people so disciplined to communicate effectively, reach conclusions, and solve problems as citizens – part of the governance structure of a political world – such that they may apply these in their professional pursuits should they choose a path of public service or community leadership, of simply community participants. • Demonstrate a degree of capacity to assume personal & political efficacy and responsibility consistent with democratic republican values – in the application of socio-political concepts explored in this learning experience (class, classes, program) in a meaningful manner to a person’s own self defined reality in the public, private and social sectors; as part of their everyday life as engaged citizens in the modern world system; and in the context of global environmental (and other) challenges.

Careers in Political Science: Careers often pursued by persons with training and degrees in political science include (but are not limited to): multiple levels of public service and leadership, attorney, diplomat, FBI/ CIA Agent, foreign-service officer, labor organizer/ union representative, legislative aide, politician, public intellectual, research specialist, and teacher.