The MA program is designed to provide students with a broad knowledge of political science and the policy-making process. Students choose from classes offered in the fields of American politics, comparative politics, international relations, and public policy in addition to taking three classes in political methodology designed to ensure students possess expertise in how to conduct systematic quantitative research. Most graduates will take jobs in government or with private firms needing specialists in policy analysis; however, this degree also leaves students well-placed for further study of these issues in PhD programs.

The PhD program is designed for people planning careers as researchers and teachers in institutions of higher education or as policy analysts in government or the private sector. All students complete coursework that leads to mastery of two of the four available areas of emphasis: American politics, comparative politics, international politics, and public policy. The program is designed to ensure that our graduates are trained in research methodology and statistical techniques.