Understand and engage your society in a meaningful way
The master’s degree in Political Science will help you to develop skills essential for success in public administration, government, campaigns, non-profits and the private sector. Working with our faculty you will expand your knowledge of politics, government, philosophy and international relations while also engaging in critical and analytical thinking which employers are looking for in a competitive job market. Whether you choose to continue into a doctoral program or begin your career upon receiving your master’s degree, you will have the tools necessary for success.
Political Science (MA/MS) :: 1.3 SEE YOURSELF SUCCEED WITH A DEGREE IN POLITICAL SCIENCE
SEE YOURSELF SUCCEED WITH A DEGREE IN political science
Dedicated Faculty
Our faculty offer a breadth of knowledge on political theory, international relations, public policy and political philosophy. We’ll walk beside you as you explore, interpret and understand government and law.
An Academic Journey
Explore your intellectual curiosity through our research-intensive programs. We’ll give you the resources to learn and grow along the way.
Become a Better Citizen
We empower our students to understand and debate issues of law, justice, order, politics and government. Through political knowledge, you’ll develop the skills towards becoming a responsible citizen and an educated member of society.
Career Readiness
Thinking critically and communicating effectively. That’s what employers are looking for. The College of Humanities, Social Sciences and Arts is dedicated to providing you the knowledge and resources for excelling in the workforce.
The Department of Political Science offers three different tracks to cater to your research interests and career goals. The Master of Arts in Political Science requires foreign language proficiency. Those seeking a Master of Science degree must demonstrate analytical, statistical and mathematical competencies through undergraduate or graduate coursework. Discover which program works best for you.
Thesis (MA/MS)
Interested in earning your Ph.D.? We recommend the thesis track. Work alongside our faculty as you conduct original research. Receive training in political methodology, data analysis and more. You’ll have the opportunity to present at conferences and publish your work in reputable journals.
Total Credit Hours: 30
Non-Thesis (MA/MS)
Our non-thesis option is recommended for current educators and those seeking to advance their knowledge. Choose from a wide variety of electives and take courses that interest you. Total Credit Hours: 36
History (MS)
Combine your love for history and political science with our 36-hour track. Develop a deeper understanding of political theory and government within its historical context. Total Credit Hours: 36
Become a lifelong advocate and civic leader by earning your master’s degree in Political Science from A&M-Commerce. Our program prepares you for further graduate work, jobs in government, education, business and more.
Career Possibilities and Current Median Salaries
Public Relations and Fundraising Managers
$116,180
Political Scientists
$122,220
Postsecondary Teachers
$76,990
US DOL Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2018
Political Science (MA/MS) :: INTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
Internship opportunities
Internship experience provides the foundation employers are often looking for. Although not required for your degree, internships are an important part of your education experience. These are just a few of the companies that offer opportunities to Political Science students.
This course provides students with a critical assessment of the major theories and concepts which define international relations as a field of study. It has two goals. The first is an in-depth analysis of explanatory theories such as realism, idealism, structuralism, neo-liberalism, interdependence, functionalism and of core concepts such as sovereignty, national interest, collective security, and balance of power. The second goal is an examination of the historical evolution of international systems, with focus on the modern state system and the Cold War period.
Comparative PoliticsPSCI 505
This course is a focused and thorough analysis of a number of topics on global issues with a particular emphasis on the problems and challenges facing the developing world. Topics can include such issues as trade and political development, emerging economies, democracy and democratic theory, political socialization, refugees and IDPs, women and development, human rights, environmental challenges, and political violence.
Seminar in American Political Behavior PSCI 510
This seminar focuses on current research on American political behavior. It examines topics such as public opinion, and political participation, and may give particular attention to electoral politics and voting behavior. The antecedents of opinions and participation are analyzed along with the consequences and implications of people’s opinions and behavioral patterns.
Political Science (MA/MS) :: Course Delivery and Resources
Course Delivery
Designed for current students and working professionals, our flexible program lets you earn your degree at your own pace. Choose from a wide variety of courses that meet your research interests and career goals. We’re here to walk with you along the way.
Select “Create a new graduate school admissions application.”
Select “Texas A&M University-Commerce (Commerce)” as your “Target University.”
Select “Political Science, MA” or “Political Science, MS” as your “Major.”
Pay the $50 application fee.
Wait to receive an application confirmation email before proceeding to the next step.
After you submit your application, the Graduate School will send a confirmation email within two business days to the personal email account you used for ApplyTexas.
Provisional Status
After you submit your application, you may be granted provisional status, which means you can enroll in one semester of courses. You will not be eligible for financial aid until you submit all of your documents and are accepted into the program.
Step 2. Submit Documents
Submit the following documents after you receive an application confirmation email.
Contact your previous institution(s) and request that they send your official transcripts to [email protected].
We recommend that you request transcripts for all of your academic work.
Postal Alternative
If your institution is unable to submit a digital copy, hard copies may be mailed to:
Texas A&M University-Commerce Attn: Graduate School PO Box 3011 Commerce, Texas 75429-3011
We will need official/original documents. If those documents are the only copies you have, the Graduate School can mail them back to you upon request. Contact [email protected] for more information.
Statement of Goals
Answer these prompts in no more than two pages:
Why do you want to study that particular area?
What do you hope this degree leads to? What are your short term education goals and long term career goals.
Why are you a good fit for our university?
Resume or CV
Submit a resume or curriculum vitae (CV) which includes your academic and professional history and achievements.
Test Scores (if required)
You do not need to submit GRE scores if you have:
a completed bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited university with a 3.00 GPA overall or higher
a completed master’s degree from a regionally accredited university with a 3.00 GPA overall or higher
If you do not meet the GPA exemption criteria, request that your GRE® scores be sent to Texas A&M University-Commerce (6188) when you register for the test. If you have already taken the GRE®, you can order additional score reports.
Look for application updates in myLeo > Apps > Check Application Status
Once an admission decision has been made, you will receive an email to your student email account at myLeo > Apps > Leomail.
Select “Create a new graduate school admissions application.”
Select “Texas A&M University-Commerce (Commerce)” as your “Target University.”
Select “Political Science, MA” or “Political Science, MS” as your “Major.”
Pay the $75 application fee.
Wait to receive an application confirmation email before proceeding to the next step.
After you submit your application, the Graduate School will send a confirmation email within two business days to the personal email account you used for ApplyTexas.
Step 2. Submit Documents
Submit the following documents after you receive an application confirmation email.
Contact your previous institution(s) and request that they send your official transcripts to [email protected].
We recommend that you request transcripts for all of your academic work.
Postal Alternative
If you are unable to submit a digital copy, hard copies may be mailed to:
Texas A&M University-Commerce Attn: Graduate School 2600 S. Neal St. Commerce Texas 75428
We will need official/original documents. If those documents are the only copies you have, the Graduate School can mail them back to you upon request. Contact [email protected] for more information.
Statement of Goals
Answer these prompts in no more than two pages:
Why do you want to study that particular area?
What do you hope this degree leads to? What are your short term education goals and long term career goals.
Why are you a good fit for our university?
Resume or CV
Submit a resume or curriculum vitae (CV) which includes your academic and professional history and achievements.
Test Scores (if required)
You do not need to submit GRE scores if you have:
a completed bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited university with a 3.00 GPA overall or higher
a completed master’s degree from a regionally accredited university with a 3.00 GPA overall or higher
If you do not meet the GPA exemption criteria, request that your GRE® scores be sent to Texas A&M University-Commerce (6188) when you register for the test. If you have already taken the GRE®, you can order additional score reports.
English Proficiency
You do not need to submit test scores if you have completed (all years) of a bachelor’s or higher degree from a regionally accredited university in the United States.
Request that your scores from one of the following be sent to Texas A&M University-Commerce:
TOEFL (Minimum Scores: IBT 79, or CBT 213, or PBT 550)
IELTS (Minimum Score: 6.00 band overall)
PTE (Minimum Score: 53 overall or higher)
Duo Lingo (Minimum Score: 105)
*Scores must be less than two years old.
Official Sponsor Documents
Submit these documents to the Office of International Programs once you have been admitted
Official sponsor statement
Bank statement from the sponsor with a balance of at least $26,025 USD which is less than 1 year old
Look for application updates in myLeo > Apps > Check Application Status
Once an admission decision has been made, you will receive an email to your student email account at myLeo > Apps > Leomail.
What are the different requirements for the MA and MS?
The Master of Arts in Political Science requires foreign language proficiency. Those seeking a Master of Science degree must demonstrate analytical, statistical and mathematical competencies through undergraduate or graduate coursework.
Master of Arts Requirements:
Successful completion of 12 undergraduate semester credit hours (approximately four courses) of a foreign language
Completion of six semester hours (above elementary courses) if two years of high school credit in the language have been submitted as part of the regular university admission requirements
Completion of 3 semester hours if the student presents 3 or 4 years of high school credit
American Sign Language (ASL) is considered an acceptable foreign language. Students should consult with departmental Director of Graduate School regarding this requirement.
Master of Science Requirements:
Any combination of nine hours undergraduate and/or graduate courses beyond those required for the degree with departmental advisor approval of courses.
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