Political Science

Why Political Science?

The Political Science program offers thought-provoking and interactive classes to promote critical thinking. This program challenges you to examine values conflicts that face citizens at the local, state, national and international levels. 
 
Students who concentrate in political science may find fulfilling careers in law, politics, government service, campaign management, news analysis, non-profit work, political consultation, special-interest groups, and more. 

Program Details

Associate in Arts

Format
On Campus, Online, Hybrid
In-District Tuition
$169/credit hour
Out-of-District Tuition
$337/credit hour
Degree
View Degree
Average Time to Complete
2 years
Financial Options
Financial Aid is available.

Program Highlights

Local, state and national governments provide services that touch nearly every area of our lives. That is why understanding political institutions and their processes here and around the world is so important. Through courses in political science at HCC you'll develop independent thought, tolerance and an informed interest in current affairs. You'll also enhance your ability to define a problem and contribute to its solution through research, evaluation, discussion and writing. 
 
By taking an activism course you will engage in, lead or support a local grassroots movement. If you choose to participate in the Political Engagement Project, you'll help organize and carry out campus events relating to building political and civic involvement. Courses range from International Relations and Comparative Governments and Activism, to American Government and Middle Eastern Politics. 
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Courses

  • POS 101: American Government and Politics

IAI Course Code: S5 900

  • POS 124: State and Local Politics

IAI Course Code: S5 902

  • POS 151: International Relations

IAI Course Code: S5 904

  • POS 215: Campaigns and Elections
  • POS 220: Comparative Governments

IAI Course Code: S5 905

  • POS 296: Special Topics in Political Science

IAI courses have been approved for transfer to an Illinois public university.

Degree - Associate in Arts

Within our Associate in Arts degree, there may be specific courses that are recommended for your major at your chosen transfer school. It’s important to meet with an academic advisor each semester to ensure that the correct coursework is taken, while earning your degree.

Even if your specific concentration or major is not listed on our application or program pages, academic advisors can help ensure you are taking the right coursework for your chosen major.

Learn more about the general education requirements for an Associate in Arts. 

Transfer Guide

Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI) 

Heartland Community College is a participant in the Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI), a statewide transfer agreement among more than 100 colleges and universities in Illinois. IAI courses have been approved for transfer to an Illinois public university. For more information about the Illinois Articulation Initiative, please visit the IAI website. 

General Education Core Curriculum Requirement

For completion of the Associate in Arts degree, you will need to complete a minimum of 37 general education core curriculum (GECC) hours, within 7 categories, as part of the 60-credit hour degree. Please click on the category to view what courses Heartland has to offer within each of the required categories.

View what courses Heartland has to offer within each of the required categories:
Communications 
Fine Arts 
Humanities 
Life Sciences 
Mathematics 
Physical Sciences 
Social & Behavioral Sciences

Careers

Political science helps you think critically and work collaboratively to produce beneficial results on the job and in the broader community. Continuing your studies at a four-year institution will help you qualify for a wide variety of opportunities in policy or research. There, you can use your knowledge of political institutions to further the interests of non-profit organizations, businesses, or social agencies in roles including:

  • Archivist
  • Campaign Manager
  • Community Activist
  • Lobbyist
  • News Analyst
  • Not-for-Profit Manager
  • Political Pollster

The U.S. Department of Education's gainful employment regulations require disclosure of certain program information to students and prospective students.

Please review the employment information pertaining to your degree or certificate by selecting your intended program at the Heartland Community College Career Coach.

For more information about graduation rates, loan repayment rates, and post-enrollment earnings about this institution and other postsecondary institutions visit the U.S Department of Education College Scorecard site.

Contact Information

Liberal Arts & Social Sciences Division Office

ICB 2000 & 2100
1500 W Raab Road
Normal, IL 61761

Phone: 309-268-8620

Email: LASS Office