The option of writing a master's thesis is available to students who wish to pursue in-depth research on a topic of interest. The thesis is written under the direction of the graduate thesis committee, which consists of your advisor and two other faculty members. You may receive up to 10-quarter hours credit for work on your thesis by enrolling POLS 695. 

You and your committee will develop a reading list related to your thesis topic. An oral defense is required; it includes not only the thesis itself but also your reading list and coursework. 

Following a successful defense, you must file a completed and approved copy with both the department and the College of Arts and Sciences before being cleared for graduation. The thesis must conform to the style and format specified by the College of Arts and Sciences. 

Non-Thesis Option

If you choose to earn an MA in Political Science without writing a thesis, you must submit two research papers ("Significant Papers") that demonstrate superior quality and the ability to carry out master's-level research. You must also pass a comprehensive written examination. 

The two research papers must be written for and approved by two different instructors. These papers are normally based on papers completed in Political Science courses, although they often require rewriting or expansion to meet the standards of a Significant Paper. At least one is expected to be in your field of specialization. Before you can take the comprehensive written examination, the two instructors must each certify in writing to the graduate chair that you have submitted a qualifying paper. Copies of both papers must be made available to your examination committee two weeks before the written exam. 

Non-thesis students are expected to be familiar with a range of literature in their field of specialization as defined by the reading list for the field. The appropriate list will be available from your advisor, the graduate chair, or the departmental office 

Comprehensive examination dates for non-thesis students are announced early each quarter. Your exam questions are derived from the reading list for your field of specialization, your two Significant Papers, and your coursework. The exam is prepared and graded by the three members of your examination committee; possible grades are high pass, pass, oral exam required, and fail. The decision of the committee must be unanimous. Candidates who fail the written examination in whole or in part can schedule one reexamination in the following quarter. 

Admission Requirements

MA Program Requirements

Thesis/Non-Thesis Options 

Graduate Certificate Programs

MA Forms and Guidelines

Financial Aid 

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