In the Master of Arts in Political Science program, students develop a foundation of academic study in their field of interest. MA students take courses alongside doctoral students and are exposed to the same material, with courses as varied as Japanese Politics, Race and Crime, U.S. Space Policy, and Constitutional Law.
In addition to coursework, students participate in scholarly debates in their chosen field and hone statistical research techniques. Many go on to careers as political campaign strategists, professors, leaders in government and business and expert contributors at top media outlets.
Concentrations
All MA students must complete 15 of the total 33 required credits in one of three tracks:
American Politics
World Politics
Law and Politics
Comprehensive Exams
At the end of their studies, all MA students must pass a comprehensive examination in one of the departmental tracks: American politics, world politics or law, and politics.
Preparation
Soon after their arrival in the department, students should speak with the professors who are the conveners for their chosen exam track. Professors will advise students about coursework that is most appropriate, combining the parameters of the field with the student's interests.
Plan of Study
During the first semester, and no later than the second, students should fill out a plan of study in consultation with the director of graduate studies. This allows students and their advisors to plan for the entire program, and determine which classes are necessary to prepare for comprehensive exams.
Exam Dates and Grading
Opportunities to take the exams are offered once per year in May. An extra exam may be scheduled in April for MA students planning to graduate in May. Be sure to contact the graduate advisor in advance to arrange this if necessary.
Comprehensive exams are evaluated as fail, bare pass, satisfactory pass, or pass with distinction. Students must receive a grade of bare pass or better on the MA exam in order to fulfil this degree requirement. Students may retake an exam once, if necessary; under no circumstances may a student take a comprehensive examination a third time. Failure to demonstrate the required level of performance on comprehensive examinations after two efforts will result in termination from the program.