Ivy Tech Community College – Political Science Transfer Pathway

Bachelor of Arts in Political Science

If you’re completing an Associate of Arts at Ivy Tech Community College, this pathway explains how your credits can apply toward Butler’s Bachelor of Arts in Political Science. Most students transfer credits and then complete the remaining credits at Butler.

What This Agreement Covers

This articulation pathway is ideal for Ivy Tech students studying Liberal Arts, Political Science, Sociology, Public Affairs, Economics, or related social sciences.

The BA in Political Science includes:

  • American politics
  • Comparative politics
  • International relations
  • Political theory
  • Research methods
  • Policy analysis

Many students pursue careers in government, law, public service, nonprofit leadership, campaigns, consulting, or international work. Most students complete the remaining degree requirements at Butler in two years.

What’s Fulfilled Through Your Ivy Tech Degree

Based on the articulation agreement, Ivy Tech coursework typically fulfills:

  • First-Year Seminar (FYS101 and FYS102)
  • Global & Historical Studies (GHS) (2 courses)
  • Analytical Reasoning (AR)
  • Natural World (NW) (lab science requirement)
  • Perspective in the Creative Arts (PCA)
  • Texts and Ideas (TI)
  • Foreign Language requirement (2 courses at the 200 level or above)
  • Political Science credit, including:
  • Ivy Tech POLS 101 → Butler PO131 Introduction to US Politics
  • Ivy Tech POLS 211 → Butler PO141 Introduction to International Politics
  • Elective credit that can be used toward an optional minor

What Courses Will I Take at Butler?

After transfer, students typically complete the Political Science major requirements at Butler, including research methods, upper-division coursework, and a capstone seminar. You can expect items such as:

  • A mix of lower-level and upper-level Political Science (PO) courses
  • Research and Analysis
  • Seminar in Political Science (capstone)
  • ICR/SJD coursework and PWB (Physical Well-Being)
  • Electives/minor coursework

Upper-division Political Science courses are typically spread across multiple areas of the discipline (so you build breadth, not just one concentration).

Licensure Requirements

This is a non-licensure degree. No state teaching tests, fieldwork, or certification requirements apply. Some internships or civic engagement placements may require background checks based on host organization policies.

Next Steps

  • Apply to Butler – Select “Political Science (BA).”
  • Send your Ivy Tech transcripts – Request official credit evaluation.
  • Meet with an academic advisor – Explore electives and optional pathways (law school prep, public policy focus, global affairs).
  • Review scholarships – Use Outside Scholarships and financial aid resources.

Estimated Program Cost

Your remaining 60 credits will be billed per credit hour, with the total depending on your course load and remaining requirements. For current tuition and fees, please see Butler’s Tuition & Fees information or contact Financial Aid.

Why Butler?

  • Strong faculty expertise across American, global, and theoretical politics
  • Hands-on learning through internships in government, campaigns, and nonprofits
  • Undergraduate research opportunities
  • Pathways for law school and public service
  • Small classes and discussion-driven learning

Questions?

Email GoButler@butler.edu for advising support.