The program provides students with the critical-thinking and writing skills required for civic engagement in a democratic society and enables them to pursue careers in the public, non-profit, and private sectors or to pursue further study in political science, law, public service and administration, criminal justice, non-profit administration, global politics, and international relations. The program includes opportunities for internships related to domestic and international politics.

Students may attain the MA by completing the requirements for a Specialization in 1) The American Political System or 2) International Relations. A Specialization in The American Political System focuses on American politics and public policy and U.S. urban politics and public administration. A Specialization in International Relations focuses on global and international politics, international political economy, and comparative politics. Courses are also regularly offered in political theory, constitutional law, comparative politics, and research methodology.  Students may complete the Concentration in Women and Gender Studies in conjunction with the Master’s degree.

Students in the School of Law-Newark may take a concurrent Juris Doctor/Master of Arts in political science that allows up to 12 credits in relevant law courses to be applied toward the 30 credits required for the master's degree.