Best Associates's In American Government and Politics (United States) Programs (2024)

In an American Government and Politics Associate Degree program, you will encounter a range of courses designed to provide a foundational understanding of the political landscape in the United States. Here are the typical courses you can expect:

• Introduction to American Government

  • Explore the structure and functions of the U.S. government and the principles of democracy.

• Political Theory

  • Study major political ideologies and theories that have shaped American political thought.

• U.S. Constitution

  • Examine the Constitution’s development, its amendments, and its significance in American law and governance.

• State and Local Government

  • Investigate the roles and responsibilities of state and local governments, including their relationships with federal authority.

• Comparative Politics

  • Analyze various political systems around the world and how they compare to the American political system.

• Public Policy

  • Learn about the policy-making process, including how public policies are developed, implemented, and evaluated.

• Political Parties and Elections

  • Study the role of political parties in the U.S. electoral system, including campaign strategies and election laws.

• International Relations

  • Gain insight into the United States' role in global politics and its relationships with other countries.

• Research Methods in Political Science

  • Explore methodologies used in political science research, including data analysis and qualitative research techniques.

• American Public Administration

  • Understand the principles of public administration, including the management of public agencies and policy implementation.

• Civil Rights and Liberties

  • Investigate the role of civil rights and civil liberties in American society, including landmark Supreme Court cases.

Each of these courses will contribute to a comprehensive understanding of American government and its political dynamics, preparing you for further education or entry-level positions in related fields.

Selecting a school for your American Government and Politics Associates Degree program involves several key considerations. Assessing these factors will help ensure that you choose an institution that aligns with your goals, preferences, and values.

Accreditation

• Verify the accreditation status of the institution. Attending an accredited school ensures that the program meets specific educational standards and that your degree will be recognized by employers and other institutions.
• Look for programs accredited by recognized bodies, such as the Higher Learning Commission or specialized accreditors relevant to political science.

Curriculum and Specializations

• Review the curriculum structure of the program. Ensure that it covers essential topics such as political theory, U.S. government structure, public policy, and international relations.
• Check for specializations or electives that align with your interests, such as public administration, international politics, or political ethics.

Faculty Qualifications

• Investigate the qualifications and expertise of the faculty members. Faculty with experience in government, policy-making, or academia can provide valuable insights and mentorship opportunities.
• Look for faculty members who have published research or have practical experience in the field, as this can enhance your learning experience.

Location and Campus Environment

• Consider the location of the school. Proximity to government institutions, non-profits, or political organizations can provide internship opportunities and valuable connections.
• Evaluate the campus environment. Do you prefer a large university or a smaller college setting? Visit campuses if possible to get a feel for the atmosphere and facilities.

Internship and Job Placement Opportunities

• Research the availability of internship programs within the curriculum. Hands-on experience is crucial in the field of government and politics.
• Inquire about the school's job placement rates and partnerships with local governments, NGOs, or political organizations. A strong network can significantly affect your job prospects after graduation.

Financial Considerations

• Analyze tuition rates and fees, and compare them across different institutions. Be mindful of your budget and potential return on investment.
• Explore available financial aid options, scholarships, or work-study programs that can lessen your financial burden.

Student Support Services

• Look into the availability of academic advising, tutoring, and career services. Strong support services can enhance your educational experience and help you navigate your career path after graduation.
• Evaluate whether the school offers extracurricular activities, clubs, or organizations related to government and politics, which can enrich your learning and networking opportunities.

Alumni Network

• Investigate the strength of the school’s alumni network. A well-connected alumni base can provide mentorship opportunities, job leads, and valuable resources as you enter the workforce.

By taking the time to thoroughly research and consider these factors, you can select a school and program that will provide a solid foundation for your career in American government and politics.

Academic Resources

• Course Catalogs: Review the course catalog of colleges offering an Associate Degree in American Government and Politics. This will give you details on required courses, electives, and program structure. Visit College Navigator for a list of institutions and their programs.

• Program Websites: Each college typically has a dedicated program webpage that includes information about faculty, course descriptions, and graduation requirements. Use your chosen school's website to learn more.

Financial Aid Resources

• FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid): Complete your FAFSA application to determine your eligibility for federal financial aid. You can find more information and apply at fafsa.ed.gov.

• Scholarships: Look for scholarships specifically aimed at political science students. Websites like Fastweb and Scholarships.com can provide personalized scholarship matches based on your background and academic interests.

Networking and Professional Development

• Internship Opportunities: Many community colleges have partnerships with local government agencies, NGOs, or political organizations that offer internships. Check with your college's career services office or the American Political Science Association at apsanet.org for potential leads.

• Professional Organizations: Join organizations such as the American Political Science Association or local political clubs to network with professionals in the field. Membership often comes with access to resources, events, and job boards.

Online Learning Resources

• MOOCs and Online Courses: Platforms like Coursera (coursera.org) and edX (edx.org) offer free and low-cost online courses in government and political science. These can provide supplementary knowledge and skills that may enhance your studies.

• Podcasts and Webinars: Follow podcasts related to political science, such as "Political Gabfest" or "Pod Save America." Additionally, seek out webinars hosted by political organizations or universities for current discussions in the field.

Academic Support Services

• Tutoring Services: Most community colleges provide free tutoring services, including writing centers and subject-specific help. Utilize these resources to strengthen your academic skills.

• Library Access: Your college library will have a variety of resources, including books, journals, and databases related to government and political science. Don’t hesitate to take full advantage.

Career Services

• Job Placement Assistance: Many community colleges have dedicated career services that provide job placement assistance, resume writing workshops, and interview preparation. Check your institution's offerings through their career services office.

• Alumni Networks: Connecting with alumni from your program can provide insights into career paths and job openings. Engage with the college's alumni association or events to build these connections.

Research Resources

• Government Websites: Familiarize yourself with authoritative government websites such as USA.gov and Congress.gov to access a wealth of information on government functions and policy.

• Academic Journals: Access journals such as the "American Political Science Review" or "Journal of Politics" for high-quality research articles. These journals are often available through your library's database subscriptions.

By leveraging these resources effectively, you will be better prepared for your studies and future career in American Government and Politics.