Decision Point
Understand power, policy and the forces that drive change.
Develop the analytical skills and political knowledge needed to navigate careers in government, law, journalism, advocacy and public service. Political science provides the foundation for understanding how power operates, how policies are crafted and how citizens can influence the systems that govern their lives at every level.
With Owens’ Political Science Transfer Pathway, AA, you’ll study governmental function, international relationships and the political theories that drive policy. Learn to analyze current events and global issues and shape the future.
Standout skills for political science careers:
- Analytical Thinking: Ability to interpret complex policies, data and political systems to make informed decisions.
- Effective Communication: Strong writing and speaking skills to clearly convey ideas and influence others.
- Critical Reasoning: Capacity to evaluate arguments, challenge assumptions and approach problems from multiple perspectives.
Small Classes. Expert Guidance.
Our instructors are experts who take pride in your success. Combined with our small class sizes, you’ll get one-on-one mentorship and precise technical feedback tailored to your goals.
Award Type
Associate of Arts (AA)
Department
Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences
Required Credit Hours
62-65
By the Numbers
2
Years of full-time study
22.4%
Students enrolled full-time
Your Path to Political Impact
In your first semester, you’ll sharpen your ability to analyze, write and think critically with courses in American government, composition, introductory statistics and a humanities elective.
By the second semester, you’ll expand your perspective with comparative politics, additional writing and humanities coursework, a science elective and a social and behavioral science course.
As you move into the third semester, you’ll dive deeper into state and local government while exploring science and social studies electives. You’ll also prepare for the global context of political science through foreign language study.
The fourth semester rounds out your program with contemporary global issues, a second-level foreign language course, and additional electives designed for transfer. This carefully structured sequence ensures you’re ready to transition seamlessly into a four-year program, equipped with the knowledge and skills to make an impact in government, policy or international affairs.
Career Outcomes
Earn your associate degree and save money in your first two years at Owens, then transfer seamlessly to pursue political science, pre-law or public administration at a four-year Ohio institution. This pathway opens doors to bachelor’s specializations in international relations, American government, comparative politics, public law and public administration.
Political science graduates pursue careers as analysts, legal assistants, government advisors, foreign service officers, journalists, and non-profit leaders. Your Owens foundation positions you for impactful roles across public service, corporate leadership and international organizations—turning your passion for politics into meaningful career success.
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In Their Words
“I’ve always been able to get my questions answered and the professors are nice. Being a single mom, they’ve always helped me out. They’ve made it easy for me to graduate.”
Brittany Persinger, Social Work, ’25
Getting Started at Owens
Begin your high-quality education at an affordable price today!
Enrollment is easy—just fill out an online admissions application to get started. We’ll ask you to submit your transcripts for course placement and college credit.
Upon acceptance, schedule a meeting with your admissions advisor to register for classes. Next, attend an on-campus orientation and meet with your student financial services advisor to discuss ways to pay for college.