Masters Degree Programs in Political Science
Political science is the study of how humans govern and organize themselves within society. Earning a master's degree in political science can lead to careers in government, nonprofit organizations, private sector research and academia.
Master's Degrees in Political Science
In general, master's degree programs in political science focus their curricula around concepts like constitutional rights, foreign policies and regional politics. They may also cover critical thinking, reasoning, research, organization and writing. Some programs also offer students the option of pursuing a concentration or specialization within political science, such as comparative politics, public policy, international relations or political theory. Political science programs generally offer students the opportunity to participate in internships or study abroad experiences. Most programs also require students complete a thesis and a comprehensive examination.
Education Prerequisites
Applicants to a graduate program in political science should have previously completed a bachelor's degree with coursework in political science or a related field, such as the social sciences. Most programs require applicants to submit official transcripts and GRE scores, and many programs ask applicants to submit a resume or a writing sample.
Course Topics
Throughout a political science program, students study and research several aspects of the field, including areas of policy, management and law. Courses may address topics such as:
- Financial management
- International development
- Policy analysis
- Constitutional law
- World politics
- Public budgeting
- Human rights
- Historical theory
- Democratization
- Diplomacy
Popular Career Options
Graduates who wish to enter into the workforce immediately after obtaining their master's degrees in political science may find careers in government or nonprofit organizations, research departments or educational facilities. Individuals may find positions as:
- Legislative analysts
- Political commentators
- Corporate managers
- Immigration officers
- Foreign service officers
Continuing Education
After completing a master's degree program in political science, graduates have the groundwork to pursue a doctorate program. Ph.D. programs in political science are typically focused around methodologies and research and may lead to careers in higher education or research.
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Average Salary of a Political Science Major
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13 Popular Schools
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Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Must be a high school graduate or have completed GED
School locations:
- Online Learning
Online Programs
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Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Applicants must have completed 12 college credits
School locations:
- California (1 campus)
Classroom-Based Programs
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Master
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- MPA - Public Administration (Local Government Emphasis)
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Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Must be 21 years of age or older and have completed some college or 24 years of age or older and a high school graduate for a Bachelor's degree
- Masters degree applicants must have a Bachelors degree
- Doctorate degree applicants must have a Masters degree
School locations:
- Online Learning
Online Programs
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Master
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Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Must be a high school graduate or have completed GED
School locations:
- Online Learning
Online Programs
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School locations:
- Online Learning
- Arizona (3 campuses)
- California (14)
- Colorado (3)
- Florida (6)
- Georgia (4)
- Illinois (7)
- Indiana (2)
- Kentucky (1)
- Maryland (1)
- Michigan (1)
- Minnesota (1)
- Missouri (2)
- North Carolina (2)
- New Jersey (3)
- Nevada (1)
- New York (2)
- Ohio (4)
- Oklahoma (1)
- Oregon (1)
- Pennsylvania (5)
- Tennessee (2)
- Texas (7)
- Utah (1)
- Virginia (3)
- Washington (3)
- Wisconsin (2)
Online and Classroom-Based Programs
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Minimum eligibility requirements:
- All programs require applicants to have graduated high school in 2008 or earlier
- Must be 22 years of age or older
School locations:
- Online Learning
Online Programs
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Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Must be a high school graduate or have completed GED
School locations:
- Online Learning
- Arizona (2 campuses)
- California (12)
- Colorado (2)
- Florida (5)
- Georgia (3)
- Idaho (1)
- Michigan (2)
- Minnesota (1)
- New Mexico (1)
- Texas (4)
- Utah (3)
- Virginia (1)
Online and Classroom-Based Programs
- Master
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Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Must have either two or more years of college or active military status if you are under 24 years of age
School locations:
- Online Learning
Online Programs
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Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Must be a high school graduate or have completed GED
School locations:
- Online Learning
- Alabama (2 campuses)
- Arkansas (1)
- Columbia (D.C.) (1)
- Delaware (1)
- Florida (9)
- Georgia (8)
- Indiana (1)
- Kentucky (3)
- Louisiana (1)
- Maryland (5)
- Minnesota (2)
- Missouri (2)
- North Carolina (5)
- New Jersey (4)
- Ohio (6)
- Pennsylvania (7)
- South Carolina (3)
- Tennessee (3)
- Texas (8)
- Utah (1)
- Virginia (11)
- Wisconsin (1)
- West Virginia (1)
Online and Classroom-Based Programs
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Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Must be a high school graduate or have completed GED
- Currently not accepting applicants from Minnesota or Tennessee
School locations:
- Online Learning
Online Programs
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Master
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- Master of Public Administration in Public Policy
- MPA in Public Administration - Public Policy
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