Political science is the study of how societies govern, how policies are created and how people influence change. It’s a field for curious, civic-minded individuals who want to understand the systems behind government, law and public advocacy.
If you’re interested in a political science career, starting with an associate degree in political science is an affordable, flexible way to build foundational skills and explore options. It can lead to entry-level political science jobs that launch your career or prepare you for bachelor’s programs in fields such as political science, history or social sciences.
At Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA), the Associate of Science in Social Sciences: Political Science major equips you with the knowledge and skills to advance your future. With NOVA’s close proximity to Washington, D.C., you’ll have access to real-world experiences — internships, networking and hands-on learning — that bring your education to life and help you achieve your goals.
Reduce Costs With an AS in Political Science
One of the most compelling reasons to pursue an associate degree is its affordability. Earning your associate degree at a community college gives you the knowledge and skills to move forward on a variety of academic and career paths — without the higher cost of a four-year institution. Choosing to save on tuition, room and board doesn’t mean sacrificing quality. You deserve a high standard from the institution you trust with the first two years of your college education.
At NOVA, you’ll learn in the nation’s capital, gaining opportunities to grow and connect in the heart of American politics. As a NOVA student, you’ll tap into partnerships with think tanks, professional sports teams and more, leveraging the exceptional resources and connections available to you.
If you plan to continue your education beyond an associate degree, NOVA helps you complete essential prerequisites and develop the skills needed to excel in upper-level courses, all while saving on the cost of your first two years. And with NOVA’s transfer programs, continuing to a four-year school is even easier.
Seamlessly Transfer to a Four-Year Program
With structured transfer pathways, NOVA helps you stay on track and save money as you work toward your bachelor’s degree. NOVA offers two key transfer programs to ensure your credits transfer smoothly:
- Articulation agreements with a wide range of partner colleges and universities help you transfer eligible credits toward a bachelor’s degree.
- ADVANCE, NOVA’s partnership with George Mason University, is a nationally recognized program that offers guaranteed admission to Mason for eligible students. You’ll have access to campus events, student services, recreational facilities and other resources at both schools while completing your associate degree.
Through programs like ADVANCE, you could save an estimated $20,000 to $30,000 on your bachelor’s degree.
Start Your Career Quickly With an Associate in Political Science
Since associate degree programs typically take two years to complete, they allow you to enter the job market faster than a traditional four-year degree program. This can be ideal if you are eager to start earning, want hands-on experience early in your career or are still exploring your long-term goals.
At NOVA, you’ll accelerate that process even further with connections to national partners, proximity to Washington, D.C., and real-world learning experiences that help you build your professional network while you study. You’ll graduate from NOVA prepared with the knowledge — and the connections — you need to succeed.
What You’ll Learn in an Associate in Political Science Program
Another compelling reason to choose an associate of science degree in political science is the practicality and versatility of what you’ll learn. Courses are often designed to give you a broad yet useful understanding of political systems, governance, public policy and civic engagement.
At NOVA, courses explore how laws are created, how leaders are elected, and how citizens can influence policy — while developing your ability to critically analyze power relationships in American politics, international relations and state and local government. NOVA’s curriculum also emphasizes real-world experience through case studies, research projects and internship opportunities in the nation’s capital.
In NOVA’s program, you’ll study topics like:
- U.S. and international government systems
- Political ideologies and movements
- The legislative process and public policy
- Global diplomacy and international conflict
- Ethics and civic responsibility
Whether you plan to transfer to a four-year school or start working right away, an associate degree in political science helps you build the skills to succeed in your next step.
What Jobs Can I Get With an Associate Degree in Political Science?
While you will need a bachelor’s degree or other advanced degrees to pursue some positions, an associate degree in political science can prepare you for entry-level roles in public service, nonprofit work, legal support, community engagement and much more. These roles can be a springboard for your career by helping you build skills, make connections and contribute to work that makes a difference.
With NOVA’s political science major, you’ll be equipped with versatile skills that prepare you for careers across a range of fields, including: