Mar 28, 2024  
2018-2019 Graduate Catalog 
    
2018-2019 Graduate Catalog [Archived Catalog]

Political Science (M.A.)


The program currently is not accepting applications.

Master of Arts, Political Science Plan A (thesis): Total 33 credit hours


  • 3 cr
  • POLS XXX Electives 6 cr hrs (no more than 6 cr hrs of Independent Study and no more than 3 cr hrs of Internship)
  • Electives 6 cr hrs (no more than 6 cr hrs of electives can be from outside POLS)
  • 2 to 6 cr (6 credit hours required)
  • Select one Specialization from below: American Political Institutions and Public Policy or International Relations for 12 cr hrs

Master of Arts, Political Science Plan B (non-thesis): Total 33 credit hours


  • 3 cr
  • POLS XXX Electives 6 cr hrs (no more than 6 cr hrs of Independent Study and no more than 3 cr hrs of Internship)
  • Electives 9 cr hrs (no more than 9 cr hrs of electives can be from outside POLS)
  • 3 cr
  • Select one Specialization from below: American Political Institutions and Public Policy or International Relations for 12 cr hrs

Concurrent M.A. Program with Juris Doctor


Students pursuing a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree through USD’s School of Law can simultaneously pursue the M.A. in Political Science through the joint J.D./M.A. program. Nine credit hours of approved law courses are accepted toward the master’s degree, and nine hours in approved MA courses are accepted toward the Juris Doctor requirements. Students must consult with the M.A. Program Coordinator in selecting coursework for their plan of study, based on the student’s professional and academic goals.