Mar 28, 2024  
2023/2024 University Catalog 
    
2023/2024 University Catalog

Political Science, Public Policy Specialization, M.A.


Return to {$returnto_text} Return to: Curricula by Department

(Major Code: 22071) (SIMS Code: 115560)

Admissions for this program are currently suspended. 

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.

Specific Requirements


Plan A


POL S 799A , Thesis, and six additional units of coursework at the 500-level or above that may include transfer courses or courses outside the department, with permission of the graduate adviser.

OR

Plan B


Comprehensive written and oral examination. One additional seminar chosen from those listed in item 5 above and six additional units coursework at the 500-level or above that may include transfer units or courses outside of the department, with permission of the graduate adviser.

Advancement to Candidacy


All students must satisfy the general requirements for advancement to candidacy as stated in Requirements for Master’s Degrees .

Return to {$returnto_text} Return to: Curricula by Department