About our Liberal Studies Associate
Degree: Political Science Focus
When the presidential debates are on TV, you’re there, watching every expression, parsing each and every phrase. Your Twitter feed includes NY Times, NBC News, Washington Post and more – you want to stay on top of every twist and turn in the splendid game of politics. But you also understand that “all politics is local,” and chances are you know who said that, too. If you don’t, you can learn it by getting an Associate in Arts degree in Liberal Studies with a focus in Political Science.
The program is designed to provide a foundation of study that prepares students to transfer to four-year colleges and universities. The curriculum is built on general education classes, supplemented with history and political science courses, other social sciences and introductory foreign language study. Our program also offers internships with U.S. senators, U.S. House representatives, political parties and political nonprofits. This concentration is excellent preparation for a major in political science at the baccalaureate level, which could lead to a career in law, teaching, government, public relations, nonprofits and many other areas.
Please note: You are only eligible to receive one Associate in Arts in Liberal Studies degree. You may not receive a second or subsequent degree in Liberal Studies with a different focus.
Graduation Outcomes
- Demonstrate skills as critical thinkers, readers and writers.
- Describe the interaction of history, culture, literature, economics and science as studied within a broad liberal arts curriculum.
- Analyze and solve quantitative problems.
What opportunities does this program provide?
Launch Your Career
SMCC graduates in this program have gone on to work as:
- Campaign Manager
- College Professor
- Communications Director
- Consultant
- District Attorney
- High School Teacher
- Judge
- Legislative Aide
- Legislative Attorney
- Political Organizer
- Press Secretary
- State Legislator
Continue Your Education
SMCC graduates have used our transfer agreements to continue their education at:
- Johnson & Wales University
- Maine College of Art
- Mount Holyoke College
- Saint Joseph’s College
- Southern New Hampshire University
- Thomas College
- University of Maine
- University of New England
- University of Southern Maine
- Wellesley College
To view our seamless transfer agreements, visit our Transfer webpage.
How do I complete this program?
Browse the information below to view our program requirements and how you might complete this program.
Estimated Full-Time Degree Completion Time
Please note, these estimates are based on a student taking an average of 15 credits per semester and do not include college preparatory or developmental courses.
Interested in viewing full program and course details?
- View full program details in our academic catalog.
- View a list of current major-specific courses for this program.
- View all current courses.
Are you a current student?
Be sure to view the degree program requirements for your specific program. Log into MySMCC and click My Maine Guide, MyDegree to learn more.
Related Programs
Not ready to commit to a degree program? We may have other options that work for you.
Did you know that we offer a broad array of short-term workforce training programs that allow you to enter the workforce and start earning quickly? These programs are a great way to enter a career in your area of interest and to become accustomed to college classes. They are also often grant-funded (free of charge to trainees). And, if you find you want to keep going, we can help you find a related academic degree or certificate program of interest with which you can continue your education.
Costs & Financial Aid
This degree program may have specific associated costs which are important to know before attending. We encourage you to apply for financial aid which provides funds in the form of grants and scholarship (free), loans (need to repay) and student employment (earned money.)
Want to learn more?
Fill out a quick form and we’ll reach out to provide more info.
Ready to apply?
Learn how to apply and fill out our online application when you’re ready.
Contact Us:
Admissions: 207-741-5800 or admissions@smccME.edu
Department Chair: Eben Miller, 207-741-5683 or emiller@smccME.edu