Political Science, MA
Refine your expertise in theory and research while engaging with contemporary debates that impact communities worldwide through UT’s Political Science MA program. Our program is designed for those who want to interpret and influence public policy, international affairs, civil rights, global challenges, and other forces that shape our world. You will explore the mechanisms driving societal change, dissect power structures, and learn to craft innovative solutions that address pressing issues such as governance, environmental policy, and human rights.
Program Overview
The Political Science MA program offers flexible thesis/non-thesis pathways, preparing students for careers in academia, government, journalism, or the military.
The Master of Arts (MA) in Political Science serves a dual purpose. Its primary goal is to provide students with a strong foundation for advanced graduate study, particularly for those intending to pursue a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree. At the same time, the MA equips students with analytical, research, and communication skills that are valuable in a wide range of careers. Graduates have successfully applied these skills in fields such as public policy and think tanks, journalism, the military, government service, and education.
This program is a great fit for students interested in pursuing their doctorate degrees or for those interested in enhancing their undergraduate studies to better prepare for professional careers. Plus, our program also offers an accelerated combined BA/MA program for students interested in completing their degrees quicker.
Thesis and Non-Thesis Options
The MA in political science offers students a thesis and non-thesis track. Students interested in the thesis track will complete an original piece of research and an oral exam. They might benefit from some of the department’s more research-oriented courses, such as qualitative political analysis or research design, giving them the analytical and methodological skills necessary to excel in whatever their research interests are.
Students in the non-thesis track will complete courses only alongside a comprehensive exam. This pathway is a great fit for students who want to gain practical knowledge through courses such as environmental policy, public administration, or non-profit management.
Whatever your aspirations, the master’s in political science prepares you with advanced skills in research, analysis, and a solid understanding of political processes.
Accelerated Combined BA/MA Program
The Department of Political Science also offers an accelerated combined BA/MA program that allows students to earn a Bachelor of Arts in political science and a Master of Arts in political science in five years. Undergraduate students take up to 9 credit hours of graduate coursework that counts towards both their BA and MA degrees.
Why Study Political Science?
Getting a master’s degree in political science at UT guarantees you’ll be offered flexible pathways for whatever your academic goals are.
Whether you’re interested in pursuing research opportunities or want to pursue a career after graduation, students can choose between thesis and non-thesis tracks, and accelerated options, allowing them to tailor their coursework to their unique interests.
You’ll also have the opportunity to participate in the Political Science Graduate Student Organization (PSGSO), providing you with a space to meet like-minded individuals, engage in political discourse, and build your network.
What Can You Do with an MA in Political Science After Graduation?
Political science is a multifaceted program, preparing students for a career in politics across many different fields. In government, you could become a legislative assistant, policy analyst or advisor, or government relations coordinator.
You could become a public affairs specialist, intelligence analyst, campaign manager, or go international, as an international development specialist or global affairs analyst.
In business, you could even become a public policy consultant or corporate compliance officer. The skills and experience this program provides will qualify you to work in any of these career fields.
Featured Courses
POLS 539 State and Local Government and Politics
This course introduces students to theoretical and empirical analysis of government, politics, policymaking and public administration at the state and local levels.
POLS 518 Bayesian Modeling in Political Science
This course provides students with an introduction to Bayesian methods and Hierarchical Linear Models (HLM). Students will also learn how to build more sophisticated models using Bayesian methods, how to apply these methods to data analysis in political science research, and how to deal with hierarchical data in an empirical model. Simulation techniques and related statistical tools are introduced.
POLS 543 Law, Regulation and Public Policy
Topics covered in this course include policymaking by executive agencies through rulemaking, enforcement and adjudication; and legislative, executive and judicial control of agency actions.
POLS 558 The Politics of Administration
This course provides students with an examination of public administration in the context of the American political system, as well as policy making and political roles of public administrators and agencies.
Complementary Majors, Minors, and Certificates
Looking to enhance your degree? Consider these programs as a complement to your primary major.
- Environmental Policy Minor
- Global Security Studies Graduate Certificate
Looking For More Options?
The College of Arts and Sciences offers students the broadest range of academic programs and opportunities for research and creative activities at the University of Tennessee, powered by faculty expertise across every discipline.
Admissions and Aid
Are you ready to become a Vol? Learn how to apply and explore tuition, cost, and aid below.
Request Information
Want to join us in creating what’s next? Learn more about the Political Science, MA program and become a Vol-in-Progress!