M.A. in Political Science

Description

The M.A. degree provides students with an intensive study of the different fields, theories, and research methods in contemporary political science. The degree prepares students for doctoral study in political science, and for careers in education, government, or policy analysis. Two options are offered: One, which requires a written thesis, is for students primarily interested in political science research; the other, which replaces the thesis with a written comprehensive examination, is for students who are more concerned with the practical application of their political science expertise.

Minimum Total Credit Hours: 30

Course Requirements

The M.A. in political science can be completed as either a thesis or nonthesis program.

Thesis Option: Thirty graduate-level semester hours, including 6 hours of methods/tools courses (Pol 550, 551) and a thesis carrying 6 credit hours constitute the minimum requirement. Each candidate for the M.A. must pass an oral examination after the other requirements for the degree have been fulfilled. The examination may include the student’s course work as well as the thesis. All requirements for the M.A. degree normally must be completed within four years from the date of enrollment.

Nonthesis Option: Thirty graduate-level semester hours, including 6 hours of methods/tools courses (Pol 550, 551) and a written comprehensive examination in the student’s major subfield constitute the minimum requirement. Each candidate for the M.A. must pass an oral examination after the other requirements for the degree have been fulfilled. The examination may include the student’s course work as well as the written examination. All requirements for the M.A. degree normally must be completed within four years from the date of enrollment.

The policies and regulations contained in this online University of Mississippi Catalog are in effect for the current or selected semester. The catalog is not a contract, but rather a guide for the convenience of students. The University of Mississippi reserves the right to 1) change or withdraw courses; 2) change the fees, rules, and schedules for admission, registration, instruction, and graduation; and 3) change other regulations affecting the student body at any time. Implicit in each student’s enrollment with the university is an agreement to comply with university rules and regulations, which the university may modify to exercise properly its educational responsibility.