Program Overview

Graduate Certificate in Political Science

About

The Graduate Certificate in Political Science is designed to provide college graduates with a survey of the political science discipline at the professional level. It can be used as an introduction to graduate work in Political Science or as a supplement to other graduate programs. This certificate may partially satisfy the requirements to teach college level political science courses at community colleges and through dual and concurrent enrollment programs.

Accreditation

For information regarding accreditation at UNLV, please refer to Academic Program Accreditations.

Learning Outcomes

• To prepare students for job opportunities in the public and private sectors as well as for additional advanced degrees.
• To develop basic theoretical and methodological knowledge in the major fields of Political Science.

Career Possibilities

• Part Time Instructor at a community college
• Civics Instructor in High School for dual or concurrent enrollment programs
• Any professional position that requires basic skills in analytical thinking, communication, writing and data analysis.

Requirements

Plan Description

The Graduate Certificate in Political Science is designed to provide college graduates with a survey of the political science discipline at the professional level. The certificate is ideal for students who want a broad exposure to the study of political institutions, behaviors and related theories and policy outcomes but do not need to commit to a full Masters or PhD degree program.

Plan Admission Requirements

• Applications available on the UNLV Graduate College website.
• To be admitted to the program, students must:
  • Upload the following department application materials into the online application:
    • One letter of recommendation
    • A personal statement explaining why you want to enter the certificate program
  • Possess a baccalaureate from a regionally accredited institution with a minimum GPA of 3.00. (Political Science or related field Major preferred)

Plan Requirements

• Total Credits Required: 18

Course Requirements

• Required Courses – Credits: 15
  • PSC 701 - Research Design and Methodology
  • PSC 710R - Proseminar in American Politics
  • PSC 740 - Proseminar in International Relations
  • PSC 760R - Proseminar in Comparative Politics
  • PSC 780R - Proseminar in Political Theory
• Elective Courses – Credits: 3
  • Any additional 700-level Political Science course.

Certificate Requirements

• Completion of the 18 credits specified in the requirements of study with a B or better is required.

Plan Certificate Completion Requirements

• Certificates will be awarded upon successful completion of the certificate requirements and filing of all required forms to the Graduate College.
• Students may apply for graduation up to two semesters prior to completing their degree requirements. All required forms must be submitted to the graduate college via the Grad Rebel Gateway.