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2009-2010 University Catalog
Political Science, MA
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Banner Code: LA-MA-POS
This 36-credit degree program prepares students for advanced work in political science, teaching, and research about government; a career in government and politics; and work in domestic and international nongovernmental organizations. Students may specialize in American government and politics, international relations, or comparative politics. In addition, interdisciplinary opportunities allow students to take up to 9 credits in related fields such as history or public policy.
The program is made up of four core courses in political science, two required seminars in a field of specialization, advanced seminars in the Department of Public and International Affairs, and elective courses in other departments.
The master’s degree is the first step in an engaging and stimulating career. Students develop a deeper understanding of political ideas and institutions, more sophisticated research skills, a better grasp of the intricacies of governments abroad, and a deeper knowledge of the complexities of international politics. This degree can lead to a career teaching about government; working with legislative bodies, government agencies, and international organizations; or doing research and writing about politics and government.
This program of study is offered by the Department of Public and International Affairs .
For policies governing all graduate degrees, see the Academic Policies chapter of the catalog.
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Application Requirements
Admission is in the fall and spring. Late applications are considered on a space-available basis. In addition to university graduate application requirements, applicants to the master’s in political science should submit three letters of recommendation, preferably from recent professors; GRE scores; résumé listing employment and volunteer work; and a statement of interests and career goals. A writing sample is strongly recommended. Degree Requirements
Students pursuing the master’s degree in political science must complete 36 credits.
Course work from other departments maybe selected to complement the student’s chosen field of specialization and should reflect the ideas, institutions, or processes of contemporary governance. Courses should be approved in an education plan designed by students and their advisor. Students who wish to begin or alter their career in government and politics are encouraged to take a 3-credit internship in their area of interest. Internships can be arranged through the Department of Public and International Affairs. Four core courses (12 credits):
Three to five courses (9 to 15 credits) in one field of specialization:
American government and politics
Two required field seminars (6 credits) chosen from:
One to three elective courses (3 to 9 credits)
Two required field seminars (6 credits) chosen from:
One to three elective courses (3 to 9 credits)
Two required field seminars (6 credits) chosen from:
One to three elective courses (3 to 9 credits)
Two courses (6 credits) of methods:
Up to three elective courses (9 credits)
Remaining credits required for the degree, if any, are chosen from other courses in the department, including an internship or additional courses in the field of specialization, or from course work offered by other departments. 3 credits of project or 6 credits of thesis
3 credits of GOVT 798 may be linked to an advanced specialty course to produce a final research project. If the thesis option is chosen, a thesis director and a committee of two additional faculty members read and approve the thesis. Students should make arrangements for doing a project or thesis with their advisor. Master’s International
The Master’s International (MI), a joint program between Mason and the Peace Corps, enables participants to prepare for Peace Corps volunteer service while earning the MA. Students apply separately, but at the same time, to the Peace Corps and to Mason. Students must complete a minimum of 18 credits prior to their Peace Corps service; this will give the student a foundation to enhance their value as a Peace Corps volunteer. Six credits are earned as internship credits for the Peace Corps service. The internship requires a project, agreed upon by the student and his/her advisor, and includes a presentation delivered to faculty and students after the student returns to the US. Upon completion of the two years of service, the student will receive a tuition grant for the six internship credits. Students return to Mason after their two years of service to complete the remaining coursework required for the 36-credit MA. |
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