MA/MS in Political Science and Government

No standalone MA exists in the department, and it takes no applications for the degree. Most students interested in graduate political science enter the PhD program, and a PhD student who asks for the MA receives it after completing the required units and passing qualifying exams at the master's level. Coursework must show basic competence in five of six fields, which are American politics, policy, comparative politics, international relations, theory and methodology. They should also reach a moderate level in one field through a comprehensive exam or thesis. The requirement is at least eight four-unit courses, including graduate field seminars and four electives numbered 500 or above. Because applications are not accepted, anyone interested in graduate political science should consider the doctoral route, which is how the department admits nearly all of its graduate students.