COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master of Arts in Political Science is a 30-credit graduate program designed to provide advanced training in political theory, research, and practice, with opportunities for specialization in American Politics, International Relations/Comparative Politics, or Criminal Justice. The program requires 6 credits of core courses, including Scope & Theories of Political Science (POLIT 600) and Seminar in International Politics (POLIT 610), which establish a foundational understanding of political systems, theoretical frameworks, and global political dynamics. The remaining 24 credits are elective graduate courses at the 500 or 600 level, allowing students to tailor their studies to their interests and career goals. Electives include topics such as Survey Research Methods (POLIT 540), Al Qaeda and ISIS (POLIT 545), Counterterrorism (POLIT 547), Intelligence Analysis (POLIT 548), Human Rights in World Politics (POLIT 563), Research Methods in Political Science (POLIT 601), seminars on War and Insurgency (POLIT 611), U.S. National Security Policy (POLIT 612), Comparative Politics (POLIT 620), and National Politics (POLIT 630). Additional options include the Supreme Court and Constitutional Law (POLIT 561), Civil Liberties (POLIT 562), and practical experience through internships in Government and Politics (POLIT 695, 3–6 credits). This curriculum combines rigorous theoretical study, research skills, and applied experience to prepare graduates for careers in public service, policy analysis, international organizations, or advanced doctoral study.