Political Science, International Relations/Comparative Politics Specialization, M.A.

(Major Code: 22071) (SIMS Code: 115551)

In addition to meeting the requirements for classified graduate standing and the basic requirements for the master’s degree as described in Requirements for Master’s Degrees , the student will complete a program of study of 30 units of upper division and graduate courses as approved by the departmental graduate adviser. The program must include a minimum of 24 units in political science selected from courses listed below as acceptable for master’s degree programs. POL S 615  and POL S 616  and at least 18 units in 600- and 700-numbered courses, including POL S 601 , are required. Students who have previously completed POL S 615  or POL S 616 , or the equivalent as determined by the graduate adviser, will enroll in such additional courses in political science as approved by the graduate adviser.

Students may choose either Plan A or Plan B as the culminating experience for the degree. Plan A requires the writing of a thesis and enrollment in POL S 799A , Thesis. Plan B requires the completion of a comprehensive written and oral examination. In consultation with the graduate adviser, a student electing the Plan B option will form an examining committee consisting of a chairperson and two additional members from the political science faculty. The examination committee will prepare, administer, and grade the written examination testing the student’s general knowledge in the program of study. The oral portion of the examination will follow the committee’s review of the written examination.