A: Feather River College is a small campus with a small student to instructor ratio. Whether in-person or online, students and instructors get to know each other which contributes to a nurturing learning environment and personalized education experience. There are numerous student support and learning services with staff who care about student success. You won't get this level of attention and support at any other community college campus. FRC has high rates of student transfers to four-year institutions, including to CSU, Chico. The Quincy community also hosts a vibrant arts culture and special events where students can get involved and become civically engaged. There are numerous volunteer opportunities off campus where students can gain experience and skills.

Political science looks at the institutions humans construct to organize governance and services. The study of political science includes history, politics, and scientific reasoning. In fact, politics refers to the activities, art, and science of governments and states, as well as the study of the debate between and conflict over power on the part of governments, organizations, or individuals.

In other words, political scientists seek to understand the ways that people, individually or as part of a group, negotiate leadership and power. This might be at the local, state, national and international levels.

This program introduces students to the study of political science and includes courses that are common to four-year institutions.

Skills you will acquire include:

• Confidence in communication: Learn how to convey your ideas confidently and effectively in writing and in presentations.
• Critical thinking: This is the skill to look beyond the surface of issues to discover the "why." Build your analytical skills. Understand various perspectives on problems and identify opportunities and solutions.
• Research and investigation: Learn both qualitative and quantitative research methods.
• Using diverse perspectives: Learn about theories and perspectives around organizing governments, the importance of civic participation, and perspectives on conflicts and resolutions.
• Expanded world view: Through the study of international relations and comparative politics, you will gain a global perspective through which to better understand and examine global issues and cooperative approaches in global solutions.

For more information, see the  American Political Science Association website: https://www.apsanet.org/ABOUT/About-APSA

A: Because of the skills you acquire while studying political science, employment opportunities are in a variety of areas. Political science majors are those people who enjoy speaking up for what they believe and understanding the laws that make our nation secure. They enjoy researching the thought process of how people think and make decisions. Yet most do not enter a field of law or politics. Political scinece majors can be found in a surprising array of fields and careers. Political science majors work in corporations, all levels of government, educational institutions and non-profit associations. The offten posses leadership, communication, and critical thinking skills that make them top candidates for many jobs and careers. Students in this major have insight into power relationships, and see the relevenace of race, class, gender, etc. in these relations, which is crucial in today's society. 

A: Political science includes a number of sub-disciplines including international relations, American politics, comparative politics, international political economy, law, and public policy. For most careers in these fields, a BA or graduate degree is needed.

A: The A.A.T. in Political Science is structured so students can transfer seamlessly to a CSU political science program. It’s always important to look at the program requirements at each institution to make sure you are on track with your education plan. The general education curriculum offered at FRC is designed to transfer to most schools. Please speak with your advisor regarding the courses you have taken and courses that will be required at your chosen four-year institution.

A: FRC offers a number of political science courses online during different semesters. All political science courses have a robust online presence and course support. Contact an academic advisor for more information. Also see the course schedule. 

A: Go to https://adegreewithaguarantee.com/Find-Your-Path to find out which CSU campuses offer a major or similar major related to the political science AA-T.

A: When you enroll in FRC, you will have an opportunity to declare your desired major. If you have already declared a major and would like to change your major to political science, please meet with an academic advisor.