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IECC Transfer Pathway
Political Science and Pre-Law
Want to change the system, argue a case, or run for office someday? The Political Science and Pre-Law transfer pathway at IECC leads to the Associate in Science and Arts degree and gives you the reading, writing, reasoning, and speaking skills law schools and political science programs want — at a fraction of the cost of starting at a university. Study American government, political theory, history, and law, then transfer to a four-year university to complete your bachelor's degree and prepare for the LSAT or a career in public service. Future attorneys, judges, lawmakers, and policy leaders — your journey starts here.
Core coursesTap to collapse
The classes that define this pathway. General education requirements round out your degree and can be planned with your advisor.
| Requirement | Course(s) | Cr. |
|---|---|---|
| Core Course | PLS 1101 — Introduction to Political Science | 3 |
| Core Course | JUS 1200 — Introduction to Criminal Justice | 3 |
| Gen Ed - Social & Behav Sciences/Core Course (also a Core Course) | ECN 2102 — Principles of Microeconomics | 3 |
| Core Course | PLS 2101 — Government of the U.S. | 3 |
| Core Course | BUS 2101 — Business Law I | 3 |
| Core Course | JUS 1210 — Criminal Law I | 3 |
| Core Course | PLS 2103 — State and Local Government | 3 |
About this pathway
The Political Science and Pre-Law transfer pathway, leading to the Associate in Science and Arts degree, is designed for students who plan to complete foundational coursework at IECC before transferring to a four-year college or university to pursue a bachelor's degree in political science and, for many students, continue on to law school or a related graduate program. The program provides a strong foundation in American government, political theory, and the social sciences, along with the reading, writing, analytical, and oral communication skills essential for upper-division study and the legal profession. Coursework introduces students to American national government, state and local government, political theory, history, and English composition, while emphasizing logical reasoning and persuasive communication. Topics of study include American government, comparative and international politics, constitutional and business law, logic and critical thinking, and composition and rhetoric. Graduates who complete a bachelor's degree will have the potential for employment as policy analysts, legislative aides, paralegals, government and nonprofit administrators, campaign and advocacy professionals, or candidates for law school and graduate study in political science, public administration, and international affairs.
At a glance
Here's how the degree breaks down by credit hours. A typical full-time semester is about 12–15 credit hours, so a 64-credit-hour degree usually takes two years of full-time study.
Recommended electives
| Course | Title | Cr. |
|---|---|---|
| BUS 2102 | Business Law II | 3 |
| HIS 2102 | U.S. History Since 1877 | 3 |
| JUS 1211 | Criminal Law II | 3 |
| PLS 2105 | Political Assassinations | 3 |
| PLS 2106 | Intro to International Relations | 3 |
| SOC 2102 | Social Problems and Trends | 3 |
| SPE 1111 | Interpersonal Communications | 3 |
Program notes
- College Orientation (required): FYE 1198 College Success; FYE 1199 Professional Career Development.
- One Human Diversity HD course must be completed.
- One lab science course must be completed.
Course offerings, prerequisites, and transfer requirements may vary. Meet with an IECC advisor before registering each semester to ensure course selections align with academic goals. Students are responsible for consulting with their intended receiving institution to verify transfer requirements and course applicability.
Ready to take the next step?
Meet with an IECC advisor to map out your transfer plan, choose your courses, and stay on track for your bachelor's degree.
Schedule an Advising Meeting