Frequently Asked Questions
Questions about the Master of Arts Program
1. What are the career opportunities for graduates with the M.A. in Political Science degree?
Graduates of our M.A. program have gone on to work in management-level positions for government agencies at all levels; political science professors at post-secondary institutions throughout the U.S.; elected government officials; research positions; and public opinion survey and polling management.
2. What type of institutions do M.A. graduates go on to complete Ph.D. programs?
In the recent past, our graduates have entered or have completed Ph.D. programs at Brandeis, Boston University, Michigan State, and University of Arizona
3. How long will it take me to complete the degree requirements?
Full-time students generally take 18 months to complete their degree requirements. Part-time student completion times vary. Full and part-time students have 6 years to complete their graduate degree program.
4. How important is the G.R.E. for admission to the M.A. program?
Students are required to submit scores for the G.R.E. general test. These scores are considered in the context of the whole application.
5. Does the Department offer financial assistance for graduate students?
The Department's Graduate Program offers a limited number of graduate assistantships and tuition scholarship to full-time students each year. These opportunities are awarded on a competitive basis. For more information go to the Graduate School website.
For information on other financial assistance options, go to Financial Aid website
6. What opportunities exist to assist faculty research?
Opportunities exist for students to present papers and research findings at professional conferences with the assistance of faculty mentors.
Graduate assistants occasionally help faculty with research as part of their work duties. Faculty advise students on their own research which often dovetails with faculty research.
7. What is the deadline for admission?
The Graduate Program works on a rolling admission basis. Applications should be received by February 15 for financial assistance, July 1 for non-aid fall semester matriculation, and December 1 for spring semester matriculation. Applicants are strongly encouraged to send their completed applications as early as possible for timely response.
8. Can I transfer credits into the M.A. Program?
The M.A. program allows a limited transfer of credits pending the approval of the Department and the Graduate School. Students may, with the approvals, transfer up to 8 credits, or two courses of related graduate work completed at an accredited institution towards their degree. If you have specific questions about transfer credit into our M.A. program, please contact the Graduate Program Coordinator. For general information, go to the Graduate School website.
9. Are there special application procedures for international students?
Yes. Visit this link to the graduate school.