COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master’s in Political Science at the University of North Texas emphasizes early and active involvement in research, supported by close collaboration between students and faculty. From the beginning of their graduate studies, students have opportunities to participate in grant-funded research projects as paid research assistants or contribute directly to faculty publications, gaining valuable academic and professional experience. Many graduate students also produce scholarly work of their own, including sole-authored articles and co-authored publications with peers and faculty members, helping them build strong academic portfolios. The program strongly encourages professional engagement beyond the university, including attendance and presentation of research papers at regional and national political science conferences, with funding available to support these academic activities. UNT’s Department of Political Science is affiliated with major international research networks such as the Inter-University Consortium for Political and Social Research and the European Consortium for Political Research, providing access to extensive global data resources. The university library system further supports research with comprehensive collections of U.S. government documents, United Nations publications, and international agency materials. Financial support is available through teaching fellowships, research assistantships tied to faculty grants, and other forms of graduate funding, helping students focus on their academic development. In addition to research training, the program offers practical learning opportunities through internships, teaching roles, and conference presentations, ensuring that students gain real-world experience alongside theoretical knowledge. The curriculum includes advanced coursework such as Quantitative Political Research Methods, Seminar in American Government and Politics, and pro-seminars in American Political Behavior, Public Administration, International Relations, and Comparative Government. Overall, the program prepares graduates for careers in academia, public service, policy analysis, research institutions, and the private sector by combining rigorous methodological training, substantive political knowledge, and hands-on professional experience.