The study of political science helps students develop knowledge, analytical skills, and critical insight into the nature of politics, political problems, and political systems. The goal is to prepare students for active engagement in political life as informed American citizens as well as members of the global community.   Although some people feel that political science is irrelevant and boring, nothing can be farther from the truth.   Once one understands certain concepts and key players, following national and international events becomes extremely interesting.   Most importantly, government decisions affect our quality of life in areas such as college tuition, minimum wage, health care benefits, jobs, and clean air and water.   One of the sub-fields of political science, international relations, concerns itself with many global issues such as war and peace, international trade, and world poverty which also affect our lives directly or indirectly.  

            NCC offers the following courses in political science:

                        POLS 101    Introduction to Political Science 

                        POLS 105    American Constitutional Law

                        POLS 110    American National Government

                        POLS 202    International Relations

                        POLS 251    State and Local Government

                        POLS 291 / 292    Special Studies in Political Science

            These courses can be part of a liberal arts program at NCC (Associate in Arts degree) and are transferable to four-year institutions for those interested in pursuing political science as a major or minor.  Our mission is to produce students who have the intellectual, critical, and analytical skills that are necessary to understand how political systems function, how to affect politics through participation, and how to make intelligent choices when choosing candidates and assessing public policies.  In addition, our courses emphasize the interconnectedness of today's global community and promote an understanding of diverse cultures, religions, and traditions.  

            Our dedicated political science faculty emphasizes the refinement of students' critical thinking and writing skills and offer many opportunities for students to present their work in class.   Often a service-learning option is offered in these courses, where students can become involved in a community organization, citizen group, or political campaign as part of their course requirements.  Students who choose the service learning option have the opportunity to apply what they learn in class to their field work and reflect upon their experience.