Political Science
What is political science?
Political Science is an essential component of a community college education. You'll gain the tools to understand the complex world of politics. And, in the process, become a better citizen.
Political Science combines two disciplines. It's both a classical discipline and a more recently developed social science. When we say classical, we mean the study of Greek and Roman philosophy. As a developed social science, the study of politics includes many perspectives. It utilizes philosophy, history, and comparative analysis. Then, you'll use those perspectives to examine governments, political movements, policies, and politics. Your knowledge will enable you to know your values. With your values, you can take part in the political process in an informed way. You'll also learn to scrutinize both your own and other value systems.
A sound foundation in Political Science paves the way for many opportunities. This includes studies at a four-year institution. Or, graduate and professional schools (including law school). You can also go into other professional fields. Some fields include public service, nongovernmental employment, civic engagement, and political activism. These fields can be at the local, state, national, and international levels -- so many options!
Faculty
what are my career choices?
- Government and Public Service
- Law
- Lobbying
- Policy Analysis
- Public Relations
- Teacher
WHAT ARE MY DEGREE, DIPLOMA, OR CERTIFICATE OPTIONS?
Course Descriptions
Examines national government and the political process in the United States, with emphasis on the Constitution, the President, Congress, and the judicial system. Focuses on the nature of American democracy, political challenges, and opportunities.
Lecture: 3 credit hours (45 contact hours)
General Education: Social and Behavioral Sciences
Examines and compares the politics of selected states in Africa, Asia, and Latin America analyzing such issues as culture, ethnicity, language, social class, and ideology.
Lecture: 3 credit hours (45 contact hours)
General Education: Social and Behavioral Sciences/Cultural Studies
Examines the most significant problems of world politics, including the fundamental factors governing international relations, the techniques and instruments of power politics, and the conflicting interest in organizing world peace.
Lecture: 3 credit hours (45 contact hours).
General Education: Social and Behavioral Sciences/Cultural Studies
Examines the institutions, political processes, and policies of state governments, and the relationships of state governments with other levels of government in the United States.
Lecture: 3 credits (45 contact hours).
General Education: Social and Behavioral Sciences
Examines public policy and the decision-making process. Incorporates discussion of relevant contemporary policy issues, which may include poverty, ethics, health care, energy, education, race and ethnic relations, science and technology, and the environment.
Lecture: 3 credits (45 contact hours)
General Education: Social and Behavioral Sciences
Examines public policy and the decision-making process. Incorporates discussion of relevant contemporary policy issues, which may include poverty, ethics, health care, energy, education, race and ethnic relations, science and technology, and the environment.
Lecture: 3 credits (45 contact hours)
General Education: Social and Behavioral Sciences
LENGTH OF PROGRAM
You can earn an associate in arts degree in two years if you maintain full-time status.
This information should not be considered a substitute for the KCTCS Catalog. You should always choose classes in cooperation with your faculty advisor to ensure that you meet all degree requirements.
Contact
Robert R. Hinkle
Professor, History
Coordinator for History/Political Science
(859) 246-6333
robert.hinkle@kctcs.edu
