Add a 14-, 12-, or 8-week class with start dates in February and March to stay on track and finish faster. In-person, hybrid and online options available.

Spring Schedule

Political Science

Do you want to know how political power works? Are you interested in civil rights, international relations, and environmental politics?

DVC's political science program is a great start! The political science program offers students an in-depth understanding of government, politics, and international relations. Through the study of political theory, public policy, and comparative politics, students gain critical thinking and analytical skills useful for a broad range of careers. Graduates are guaranteed admission to the CSU system, but not to a specific campus or major.

Career Opportunities


The political science program will prepare you for work in a variety of occupations and career paths, including:

With additional education:

  • Educator
  • Lawyer
  • Diplomat
  • Political Consultant
  • Government Official
  • Public Opinion Researcher
  • Journalist

Degree


Change your life with a political science degree. Our program gives you options to explore.

I feel that the faculty here really care about you as a student, and they show it day in and day out with their commendable programs on campus from the Student Centers to the Academic Support Center. I believe DVC is a great fit for any hardworking individual, and it will forever change your life. There are bonds that I have created here that will never go away.

Jordan Davis, Student

About degrees and certificates


Certificates:
A certificate readily prepares you to enter a particular field or career. It can also give you new skills for advancement in the workplace.

Associate Degrees:
An associate degree requires a broader education for career options in a range of industries. It's a great step towards earning a bachelor degree at a four-year school or entering the workforce sooner.

Associate Degrees for Transfer:
A transfer degree is equivalent to the first two years of a bachelor’s degree program. Earning one can guarantee admission to California State Universities, some private and online universities, and Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). ADTs, along with a transfer agreement guarantee (TAG) with the University of California system can help you achieve your goals for less. Learn about transfer services.

Meet our Political Science Faculty

Albert Ponce

Albert Ponce Ph.D.

Program Lead, Political Science; Co-Lead, Social Justice
Placeholder graphic silhouette of a person

Scott MacDougall

Faculty - Political Science, Convener - Social Science Division Council

Political Science Events

DVC Career & Transfer

Feb 20

Stanford Campus Tour

February 20, 2026

8:15 am

Pleasant Hill

DVC Financial Aid department events logo

Feb 23

2026 Financial Aid Awareness Workshop Series

February 23, 2026

10:00 am

Pleasant Hill

DVC Financial Aid department events logo

Feb 24

2026 Financial Aid Awareness Workshop Series

February 24, 2026

2:00 pm

Pleasant Hill

Political Science News

Jordan Davis

For Jordan Davis DVC Felt Like Home The Moment He Stepped On Campus

August 8, 2023

Career Service

Ready to Start Your Job Search? DVC Career Services Has Your Back

June 28, 2023



News

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February 17, 2026

Lisa Walker

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January 27, 2026

Architectural design major and U.S. Army dependent Allyson Chombo working in the SVRC

“These Services Made It Possible” - How DVC’s Support Programs Change Lives

December 11, 2025