Political Science (M.A.)

Basic Degree Information/Description

The Master of Arts degree in Political Science offers students the opportunity to develop and expand their understanding of political theories, methodologies, and substantive political affairs. The program prepares students for possible careers in city, state, federal, and even international governmental organizations, as well as, non-governmental organizations, public opinion polling, campaign management, community college teaching and other related occupations. The program also provides excellent preparation for law school or doctoral studies. Students may specialize in American Government, International Politics, or Political Theory and Public Law.

Requirements and Specific Deadlines

The minimum number of semester credit hours required for the degree is 36. Students without a basic foundation in statistics and/or social science research methods may be required to complete an undergraduate-level course in one of these areas before enrolling in POL 5013 Research Methods.

Admission requirements and pre-requisites:

Applicant must have completed 18 hour semester credit hours in upper-division undergraduate or graduate-level courses in Political Science or directly related fields in the social or behavioral sciences. It is strongly recommended that applicants have at least a 3.0 grade point average (on a 4.0 scale) in the last 60 hours of undergraduate and graduate work. An overall graduate point average of 3.0 in Political Science courses is also required. All applications are evaluated by an internal review committee to determine compliance with University and program requirements. Admission is competitive, satisfying the application requirement does not guarantee admission.

Graduate Studies Application: Yes

Department Application: No

Transcripts: Official transcripts from ALL colleges and universities attended

Test Scores: GRE or LSAT Score Required

Resume: Recommended

Letters of Recommendations: Three letters of recommendation from references who can speak to your qualifications for the graduate program. At least two of these must be from college or university professors who can discuss and evaluate specifically your academic qualifications and potential for graduate-level study.

Statement of Purpose: Yes - roughly 500 words or two typed pages indicating your interests and goals in studying political science

Minimum TOEFL Score (for International Applicants): 550 paper/79 internet

Minimum IELTS Score (for International Applicants): 6.5

Additional Requirements: International students and those with international degrees may be required to submit additional documents per our admissions policies and procedures. The Graduate School reserves the right to request any additional documents needed to fairly and consistently evaluate applicant credentials.

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Application Deadline Dates

Domestic Applicants (Citizens and Permanent Residents):
Spring- November 1
Summer- April 1
Fall- July 1

International Applicants:
Spring- September 1
Summer- March 1
Fall- April 1

Contact Information:

Graduate Advisor of Record: James Calder, Ph.D.
Email Address: James.Calder@utsa.edu
Telephone: (210) 458-7671

Degree Website: http://colfa.utsa.edu/Polisci/polisci/grad.html

Graduate Catalog Link: http://www.utsa.edu/gcat/chapter6/COLFA/poldept.html#mapols

Career Options

Many of our students go onto teaching at the community college level, civil service, military service and non-profit work. Below are some examples of success stories:

Sarah Stiver- National Security Agency
Jamal Rhadbane- JAG lawyer for the United States Navy
Lani Esparza- Political Campaign Manager
Isabel Long- Amnesty International - Latin American Division

Funding Opportunities

The Department offers the Ruben Mungia Scholarship awarded to one graduate student every academic year. Applications can be found on the department website http://colfa.utsa.edu/polisci/polisci/grad.html