Political Science button
Career & Academic Pathways >> Social Science
Contact Information
Lauren Blanchard (Department Chair)
(831) 646-4163
lblanchard@mpc.edu
For Additional Info
• Download our Info Sheet
• Visit MPC Political Science
• Connect with a Counselor 

Program Overview

Political science is the study of government, public policy, and political behavior. The Political Science program gives students the tools to analyze practices of power by evaluating the policy-making functions of government, social movements, war, and revolution, among other topics. Political science majors receive training in a broad range of quantitative and qualitative methods and learn to conduct research on topics of interest to contemporary political scientists.

Job Outlook

Because politics intersect with a wide range of policies and issues, Political Science graduates have a strong foundation for pursuing careers in public life, non-profits, and the legal profession. Graduates’ critical thinking, communication, and research skills are valuable in the private sector as well. In addition to working in government as administrators and legislators, Political Science graduates also pursue careers in teaching and research for both private and public institutions.

Potential Careers

Community Organizers 

$29,828 - $53,973

*Legislators
(may require additional training)

$31,400 - $125,020

*Political Scientists
(may require additional training)

$37,770 - $124,340

*Public Policy Analysts
(may require additional training)

$67,499 - $127,257

*PR Managers & Fundraisers
(may require additional training)

$74,060 - $208,000+

MPC Degrees and Certificates

  • Political Science - Associate in Arts for Transfer (AA-T)
  • Political Science - Associate in Arts (AA)

Suggested Course Sequence (AA-T)

Year 1

FALL
 UNITS
 SPRING UNITS
ENGL 1A
 3

ENGL 2

 3

MATH 16

 4

POLS 2

 3

POLS 1

 3

Area 3A

4

Area 5 & 5C

 4

Area 3B

 3

PERS 10

 1

   US-1 Course rec.

 2
    Area 5B 3 
       
Total Fall Units
 15
 Total Spring Units
 15

Year 2

FALL
 UNITS
 SPRING UNITS

SPCH 1 or 2

 3

POLS 3

 3

POLS 4

 3

Area 4

 3

POLS 5, 10, 16, or 18

 3

   ECON 2 or 4 rec.

Area 3A or 3B

 3

Area 6 or UC Electives

 5

UC Elective

 3

UC Elective

 3
    UC Elective 1 
       
Total Fall Units
 15 Total Spring Units 15

This is a suggested sequence of coursework and is one pathway for students to earn their degree/certificate. This is not an official educational plan. A counselor is able to assist you with creating a personalized education plan based on your academic, career, and personal goals. For more information about counseling and up-to-date program requirements, please visit www.mpc.edu/counseling. 

Testimonials 

Sofia Paci

The first political science class I took ultimately helped me decide my major. I loved it and realized I wanted to go into government and law. Now that I figured out what I want to do for the rest of my life, I cannot wait to start my journey at a four year college!