Program Overview

Are you fascinated by how political decisions shape our world? Ä¢¹½ÊÓÆµÍø (CWI) invites you to explore this realm in our Political Science program. This journey is not just about understanding politics; it is about equipping you to engage with and influence the political landscape. As you dive into areas like American government, international relations, and political philosophy, you will gain a comprehensive foundation perfect for transferring to a four-year university.

This program is ideal if you see yourself making a difference in law, government, diplomacy, or education. You will learn to think critically about global challenges, analyze political behavior, and understand the intricacies of governance. Whether you aim to be a change-maker in the public sector or apply your political knowledge in the business world, the Political Science program is your launchpad as you prepare to transfer to a four-year institution to obtain a bachelor's degree.

Degree or Certificate Type

Associate of Arts

Available Fully Online

Cost

$9,580

Additional cost may apply.

Time to Complete

2 years

Primary Locations

Nampa Campus

Ada County Center

Student standing by state flag in the capital building

Learning Opportunities

  • Direct Experience Through Internships: Step into the real world of politics with internships, building your network and practical skills.
  • Interdisciplinary Insights: Embrace a holistic view of political science, drawing on knowledge from economics, history, philosophy, and sociology.
  • In-Depth Understanding of Political Systems: Learn how American institutions operate and how they can be influenced, an invaluable skill for future entrepreneurs or policymakers.
  • Global Perspective: Develop a nuanced understanding of global politics, preparing you for international careers or further studies.
  • Tailored for Aspiring Law and Government Professionals: If you are considering a career in law or public service, this program offers the foundational knowledge you need.

Areas of Study

Degrees & Certificates

Political Science – Associate of Arts Degree
2 Years

AA

Available Fully Online

Cost:
$9,580

Let's Get Started

Politician smiling at crowd

Career Opportunities

1063

Annual Openings*

$
35.10

Hourly Median Wage*

$
73,008

Annual Median Salary

18.28
%

Growth (2025 – 2035)*

Teach one or more subjects to students at the secondary school level.

427

Annual Openings*

$
29.52

Hourly Median Wage*

$
61,401

Annual Median Salary

5.34
%

Growth (2025 – 2035)*

All managers not listed separately.

346

Annual Openings*

$
30.48

Hourly Median Wage*

$
63,398

Annual Median Salary

18.26
%

Growth (2025 – 2035)*

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.

27

Annual Openings*

$
24.67

Hourly Median Wage*

$
51,313

Annual Median Salary

11.53
%

Growth (2025 – 2035)*

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.

2

Annual Openings*

$
55.65

Hourly Median Wage*

$
115,752

Annual Median Salary

11.79
%

Growth (2025 – 2035)*

*Data sourced from Lightcastâ„¢ (2023), a global leader in labor market analytics, and limited to the state of Idaho. Contact CWI Institutional Research for questions regarding this data. Career pathways may require further education beyond CWI.

Admissions

Step 1

Step 2

  • Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

New Student Checklist

Let's Get Started

Let's Get Started

News

A student stands smiling in front of a building.

Andy Del Toro Obeso, a Political Science student at Ä¢¹½ÊÓÆµÍø, is a 2025 Coca-Cola Academic Team Bronze Scholar, driven by his passion for creating meaningful societal...

Read more about Andy Del Toro Obeso’s Mission to Build a Better World
Robert Harbaugh, Ä¢¹½ÊÓÆµÍø Faculty of Distinction for May 2019

Congratulations to Robert Harbaugh, Ä¢¹½ÊÓÆµÍøâ€™s Faculty of Distinction for May 2019.

Read more about Faculty of Distinction—May 2019
Dr. Leif Hoffmann

The Political Science program is proud to welcome guest speaker, Dr. Leif Hoffmann, to campus April 8.

Read more about Guest Speaker—Dr. Leif Hoffmann
Rob Harbaugh

Associate Professor of Political Science, Robert Harbaugh, named President-Elect of the Pacific Northwest Political Science Association.

Read more about Harbaugh Named PNWPSA President-Elect
Political Science is proud to welcome guest speaker, Dr. James Hanley, to campus Nov. 7.

Political Science is proud to welcome guest speaker, Dr. James Hanley, to campus Nov. 7.

Read more about Guest Speaker—Dr. James Hanley
Attend CWI's Program and Career Expo (PACE), April 13, 2018.

Ä¢¹½ÊÓÆµÍø to host its annual Program and Career Expo (PACE) on April 13.

Read more about Program and Career Expo Returns April 13
Join CWI's Political Science Program March 19 as they welcome guest speaker, Dr. Ross Burkhart.

The Political Science Program is proud to welcome guest speaker, Dr. Ross Burkhart, to campus March 19, 2018.

Read more about Political Science Welcomes Dr. Ross Burkhart
Dr. Isaac Castellano, Political Science Guest Speaker

The CWI Political Science program welcomes guest lecturer, Dr. Isaac Castellano, Wednesday, April 26.

Read more about Political Science Guest Speaker Dr. Isaac Castellano

Request More Information

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One Stop Student Services

Locations

Program QR Code

URL: /academics/academic-transfer/political-science<br>