Political Science

Graduate Program Description

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.

General Information

Degree Offered: M.A.
Part Time Study Available: Yes 

Degree Credit Requirements

M.A.: 30 credits

Career Opportunities 

Graduates of our M.A. program have followed diverse career paths. Some use the scholarly training and preparation prior to applying to law schools or Ph.D. programs. Others find employment in government service or jobs in national government. Our M.A. students have also pursued careers in state and local government, international organizations, and have become active in electoral politics. Still others find work as analysts or policy advocates in the private sector - in jobs where an advanced understanding of politics and policy-making is beneficial. And M.A. students have gone on to find employment in the business sector or in the media.

Application Requirements and Deadlines

All transcripts – GRE [optional] – TOEFL – 3 Letters of Recommendation – Sample of academic or professional writing - Personal Statement.

APPLICATION DEADLINES

Fall Semester Start

US Applicants: August 1

Non-US Applicants: March 1

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Spring Semester Start

US Applicants: December 1

Non-US Applicants: November 1