Graduate Degrees

Master of Arts Degree in Political Science (M.A.)

The Master of Arts program is designed for students who wish to continue their education in Political Science. M.A. students concentrate in American Government and Politics, Comparative and World Politics, Political Theory, Public Policy or Urban Politics, preparing for a career in government, education, or in many other fields. Many, but not all, students go on to earn a doctorate upon completion of the M.A. The degree requires a minimum of 33 credit hours, a thesis or essay, and successful completion of a comprehensive examination in the major field. For additional information, consult Graduate Programs.

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Master of Arts in Public Administration (M.P.A.)

The Master of Public Administration (MPA) program offers professional training to provide competencies needed for a wide variety of public service positions and to build the foundation for long-term individual development and advancement in a public service career. There are approximately 70 students enrolled in the program, with part- and full-time students equally welcome. The MPA program provides training for work in: local, state, and federal agencies; private, nonprofit agencies and voluntary organizations; public affairs offices in private businesses; and legislative staff positions.  

Located in the Department of Political Science, the program is NASPAA accredited and the oldest in the state of Michigan. The faculty are committed to excellence in both teaching and research. The vast majority of classes are held in the evening; there is no online degree program.

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Master of Arts/Juris Doctor (M.A./J.D.)

The Department of Political Science in cooperation with the W.S.U Law School offers a joint degree program leading to a Master of Arts degree in political science with a concentration in Law and Public Policy and a Juris Doctor degree from the W.S.U. School of Law. Students must be admitted to both programs although not necessarily simultaneously and may begin study in either program. However, upon admission to the law school, the student must complete the first year before taking any other courses.

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Ph.D. Program

Our doctoral program is premised on the assumption that students possess a strong intellectual interest in Political Science. We have structured coursework requirements to enable you to acquire a sound understanding of the methodology of Political Science, an excellent knowledge of your major area of concentration and a good knowledge of your two minor areas.

Through coursework and independent study, you are expected to become conversant with the major theoretical approaches in the discipline as well as the issues and controversies within your major and minor fields.

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