Chaffey College
School of
Social & Behavioral Sciences
5885 Haven Avenue
Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91737
909/652-6253
Political Science The Major
Political Science, the study of politics and government, examines ways and means by which societies identify and solve problems. The exercise of power in decision-making processes and its effect on societal resources is explored and weighed. Political values and beliefs are determined and evaluated for further depth of understanding. Political Science courses enrich the general education program and fundamentally support preparation for careers in teaching, the law, government service, city management, journalism, business, and international affairs.
AA Degree
MAJOR REQUIREMENTS FOR THE ASSOCIATE IN ARTS DEGREE:
Advanced Composition and Critical Thinking
(or PHIL 76, Critical Thinking)
3
What Can Someone Do With A Political Science Degree?
Political Science as described by the American Political Science Association (APSA):
Political science majors acquire skills in writing, communications, and analysis that are critical to a liberal arts education. A liberal arts education prepares students to think independently, with tolerance for others and concern for current affairs. Today, students can reasonably expect to change jobs and even to have more than one career. An undergraduate education in the liberal arts and sciences is excellent preparation for flexibility in employment.
Political Science is a very versatile discipline. In broad terms, a political science major can pursue careers in:
Federal Government and Politics, State and Local Government and Politics, International Organizations, Interest Groups and Community Organizations, Law, Journalism and Communications, Business and Finance, Research, and Teaching.
Examples of more specific careers include:
Consumer Advocate, Policy Analyst, Journalist, City Manager, Campaign Worker, Foreign Service Worker, Diplomat, Financial Planner, Political Consultant, Public Relations Director, Lawyer, Urban Policy Planner, Human Rights Advocate, Business Administrator, and Politician.
Student Testimonials
"Political science has given me the 'Overstanding' to have a comprehensive view toward the system, and the choices I can make to change the system for all people universally. Thank you Professor Carter, Professor Noble, Professor Dinelli, Professor Fitzpatrick, Professor Falciano and Marie Boyd for the brain food."
—Lenny Richards
(Free Dominica 4 Jah)
Fall 2006
"I've always had a great interest in political science, so I've chosen political science as my major. The professors know what they are teaching and make the lectures interesting and enjoyable. I like the variety of political science courses offered at Chaffey. I am very satisfied with the program."
—Stacy Mikel
Fall 2006
"In my experience with the Political Science Department at Chaffey, I feel it provides the students with new insight into the way our society works. The professors educate on all levels, giving many opinions from different sides of arguments, and including the class in their lectures. Support has been offered throughout the entire semester, from study groups to office hours to in-class discussions."
—Kimberley Rexwinkel
Fall 2006
"The Political Science Program at Chaffey is not only intellectually stimulating, but fun as well. The professors are very accommodating and are always willing to discuss issues with you. The subject itself is very enjoyable; studying something that affects every person everyday gives one a sense of belonging to a world wide community. When studying politics, you not only become more socially aware, but you are filled with a desire to cause change in the world around you."
— Ian Scott
Fall 2006
"I became a political science major to understand the systems we live in, and what can be changed for the better. The best thing I like about my political science professors is their honesty. Professor Carter and Professor Tzintzarova let me express my views uncensored, helping me shape my revolutionary mentality. I would encourage any student regardless of ideology or views about our political environment to take a political science class, since it has helped me understand so much more about myself."
—German Solorzano
Fall 2006
"I decided to major in political science because I was amazed how people's lives can be different depending on their cultural and political background. In my first semester at Chaffey, I took an International Relations class. It was not familiar to me but it drew my interest. I was thinking about majoring in Communications but as I was taking different classes, I changed my mind. I like classes that make me think about more than just myself. I get the feeling I am actually learning something and will be able to use this knowledge to help others. Political science classes are not easy, but I am having fun with it."
"The reason why I picked political science was to get a better understanding of how all communities work. Political science can be very challenging but at the same time very fun."
"The political science program at Chaffey has given me more than just the education I need to earn a degree, but also the knowledge that can be taken beyond any career and any institution."