Field of Interest
Take your passion for politics to a new level. Our program can prepare you for a career in law, journalism, government, and research—occupational fields that require effective communication skills and the ability to define, defend, and critique political concepts, systems, and theories.
University Transfer Degree
Want to pursue a bachelor’s degree at a university? Save money by starting at MCC in manageable, small classes taught by renowned faculty. Our transfer pathways with Arizona universities help you achieve two goals: completing an associate’s degree while also staying on track to earn a bachelor’s degree at your transfer destination. MCC’s university partnerships throughout the nation assure your seamless transition toward a four-year degree.
A list of available transfer degrees offered in the Political Science program
Name |
Type |
Title |
Courses |
Associate in Arts |
AA |
Associate in Arts, Emphasis in Political Science |
Pathway Map |
Career Opportunities
Successful completion of a degree or certificate within the Political Science program may lead to employment in a variety of different occupations and industries. Below are examples of related occupations with associated Maricopa County-based annual median wages*. Some occupations may require additional education or training. You can click on any occupation to view more detail regarding education level, wages, and employment information.
Plan, direct, or coordinate activities to solicit and maintain funds for special projects or nonprofit organizations.
Typical Education Level
a Bachelor's degree
Hourly Median Wage
$56.88
Annual Median Wage
$118,329
Number of People Employed
245
4-Year Employment Growth
Increase by 23.7%
Represent clients in criminal and civil litigation and other legal proceedings, draw up legal documents, or manage or advise clients on legal transactions. May specialize in a single area or may practice broadly in many areas of law.
Typical Education Level
a Master's or Professional degree
Hourly Median Wage
$62.93
Annual Median Wage
$130,899
Number of People Employed
9,004
4-Year Employment Growth
Increase by 12.5%
Study the origin, development, and operation of political systems. May study topics, such as public opinion, political decisionmaking, and ideology. May analyze the structure and operation of governments, as well as various political entities. May conduct public opinion surveys, analyze election results, or analyze public documents.
Typical Education Level
a Doctoral degree or more
Hourly Median Wage
$47.37
Annual Median Wage
$98,544
Number of People Employed
52
4-Year Employment Growth
Increase by 7.7%
Teach courses in political science, international affairs, and international relations. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
Typical Education Level
a Doctoral degree or more
Hourly Median Wage
$35.06
Annual Median Wage
$72,944
Annual Job Openings
2,879
Number of People Employed
26,552
4-Year Employment Growth
Increase by 13.3%
Plan, direct, or coordinate activities designed to create or maintain a favorable public image or raise issue awareness for their organization or client.
Typical Education Level
a Bachelor's degree
Hourly Median Wage
$50.33
Annual Median Wage
$104,694
Number of People Employed
805
4-Year Employment Growth
Increase by 14.7%
Promote or create an intended public image for individuals, groups, or organizations. May write or select material for release to various communications media. May specialize in using social media.
Typical Education Level
a Bachelor's degree
Hourly Median Wage
$30.91
Annual Median Wage
$64,304
Number of People Employed
4,128
4-Year Employment Growth
Increase by 11.1%
Narrate or write news stories, reviews, or commentary for print, broadcast, or other communications media such as newspapers, magazines, radio, or television. May collect and analyze information through interview, investigation, or observation.
Typical Education Level
a Bachelor's degree
Hourly Median Wage
$22.13
Annual Median Wage
$46,037
Number of People Employed
662
4-Year Employment Growth
Decrease by -14.5%
Plan, direct, or coordinate the activities of a social service program or community outreach organization. Oversee the program or organization's budget and policies regarding participant involvement, program requirements, and benefits. Work may involve directing social workers, counselors, or probation officers.
Typical Education Level
a Bachelor's degree
Hourly Median Wage
$34.04
Annual Median Wage
$70,822
Number of People Employed
2,170
4-Year Employment Growth
Increase by 19.7%
Assist social scientists in laboratory, survey, and other social science research. May help prepare findings for publication and assist in laboratory analysis, quality control, or data management.
Typical Education Level
a Bachelor's degree
Hourly Median Wage
$24.45
Annual Median Wage
$50,874
Number of People Employed
381
4-Year Employment Growth
Increase by 14.7%
Develop comprehensive plans and programs for use of land and physical facilities of jurisdictions, such as towns, cities, counties, and metropolitan areas.
Typical Education Level
a Master's or Professional degree
Hourly Median Wage
$40.91
Annual Median Wage
$85,097
Number of People Employed
656
4-Year Employment Growth
Increase by 8.7%
* Career and wage information provided by Lightcast using data, reports, and forecasts which are generated using government data sources and Lightcast’s proprietary analytical processes. Lightcast’s data covers multiple classes of workers including QCEW, non-QCEW, and those who are self-employed. Disclaimer
Financial Aid
You can get a high-quality, affordable education. MCC’s low tuition rates and various financial aid opportunities make it possible. Explore federal and state grants, Federal Work-Study, scholarships, student loans, and other options today.
Connect with an Advisor
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