The Master of Arts in Politics at Catholic University offers a comprehensive exploration of political philosophy, institutions, and processes, with concentrations in American Government, World Politics, and Political Theory. The program provides students with a strong foundation in the theoretical and practical aspects of political science, preparing them for careers in public service, policy analysis, international affairs, and academia. With access to Washington, D.C.'s rich resources, students benefit from unique opportunities for internships, research, and networking.
Master's
Politics (MA)
Degrees
The Master of Arts in Politics program is a 30-credit-hour degree program.
The M.A. in Politics offers concentrations in Political Theory, World Politics, and American Government.
A 3.0 grade point average or better must be maintained. American Government and Political Theory students must take POL 651 and 652 (Political Theory I and Political Theory II). World Politics students may concentrate in either International Relations or Comparative Politics, and they must take POL 606 (Introduction to International Affairs) and 607 (Graduate Introduction to Comparative Politics). Students who concentrate in American Government are required to complete POL 625 (Graduate Introduction to American Government). Students who select Political Theory or World Politics as their fields of concentration must take at least six hours in the other fields offered by the department.
Thesis
Students may elect to write a master's thesis, for which they receive six hours of credit, on a topic approved by the department and the Dean of the School of Arts and Sciences. Students who do not choose to write a thesis must demonstrate research competence by means of the papers prepared for their research seminars.
Research
All M.A. students must demonstrate basic competence in a research skill, which can be either a foreign language or a methodology.
Comprehensive Examination
Students who have completed or are in the final semester of thirty (30) hours of course work must register for and take a written comprehensive examination in their field of concentration (American politics, world politics, or political theory). All appropriate research skill requirements and seminar paper requirements must be satisfied prior to this examination.
$1,250 / credit hour
More information about this degree is available on the School website or by request from our Admissions team.