Political Science M.A.

The Master of Arts in Political Science focuses instruction on four areas: American politics, political theory, comparative politics, and international relations. This course of study is designed to 1) prepare students for matriculation to doctoral programs in political science, 2) train degree recipients for teaching responsibilities at the junior college level, and/or 3) provide professional competencies for private and public sector employment.

Master of Arts in Political Science--Total Semester Hours=36

Admissions Requirements

In addition to the general requirements for admission to graduate study, the requirements for admission to the political science program are as follows:

1. A baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university.
2. A satisfactory score on the General Test (verbal, quantitative, and analytical) of the Graduate Record Examination (GRE).
3. A satisfactory grade-point average on all prior advanced-level (junior, senior, and graduate) work (Minimum GPA - 3.0).
4. Consideration is also given to one or more of the following: the applicant's demonstrated commitment to his or her chosen field of study, socioeconomic background, first generation college graduate, multilingual proficiency, geographic region of residence, and level of responsibility in other matters including extracurricular activities, employment, community service, and family responsibilities.

Graduation Requirements 

All candidates for the Master of Arts degree in political science must also meet the following requirements:

1. A cumulative grade-point average of 3.0 in all course work applied towards the degree.
2. Satisfactory performance on a final comprehensive written examination. The examination will consist of questions from three of the following sub-disciplines: American politics; comparative politics; international relations; political theory. The student must take at least 6 hours of coursework in a sub-discipline in order to take an exam in that sub-discipline.