Master of Arts in Political Science

The Master of Arts (MA) in Political Science provides excellent preparation for doctoral study, graduate education for secondary school educators, and individuals who would simply like to know more about the workings of government and politics. The course of study is especially ideal for students who are considering doctoral study and are looking to further their training, enhance their competitiveness, and get a closer look at what more advanced graduate work would entail. We offer a range of field specializations with faculty strengths in American politics, public administration, public policy, and political methodology.

Program Structure

• Students in the MA program usually enroll in nine hours each semester and complete the program in two years.
• These courses include a healthy mix of masters and doctoral students representing multiple programs on-campus, with many classes scheduled during the day in addition to a few classes in the evening.
• Unlike our MPA program, which is designed for students who work full-time, our MA students are often full-time.

Admissions Requirements

To be considered for admission to the graduate program, all applicants must first meet Graduate College admission requirements as described in the Graduate College Bulletin. The Department of Political Science expects that students seeking admittance to graduate work will have successfully completed at least 24 hours of undergraduate study in political science or 15 hours in political science plus nine of another social science field. Students lacking this preparation will be considered for admission, but they may be asked to commence their studies with additional courses in order to be fully prepared for graduate work.

• All applicants must have received at least a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent from a regionally accredited institution.
• All applicants for whom English is a second language must present evidence of proficiency in the English language.
• Admission to the Political Science MA degree program at the University of Oklahoma is highly selective. Applicants must demonstrate the ability and motivation to succeed in a rigorous program of graduate study, and must make the case that there is a close fit between their aspirations and the offerings of the Department of Political Science.

Application Process

• The admissions committee reviews applications once annually, following the February 1 deadline. Only complete applications are considered.
• In reviewing applications, the admissions committee undertakes a comprehensive examination of all elements of the application file.
• In addition to the Graduate Admissions application, students must submit the following supplemental materials:
  • Scores on the general test of the Graduate Record Examination (GRE).
  • Three letters of recommendation from persons in a position to speak knowledgeably about the applicant's academic ability.
  • A statement of about 1,000 words articulating the applicant's specific preparation for graduate study, proposed fields of study and area of focus, and career aspirations.
  • A writing sample.

Degree Requirements

• 36 semester hours, thesis, or non-thesis options
• Required Courses:
  • P SC 5923 (Introduction to Analysis of Political and Administrative Data)
  • P SC 5933 (Intermediate Analysis of Political Data)
  • P SC 6003 (Political Science: Survey of a Discipline)
• Concentration in two of seven fields:
  • American Politics
  • Comparative Politics
  • International Relations
  • Political Methodology (secondary concentration only, non-examining)
  • Political Theory
  • Public Administration
  • Public Law (secondary concentration only, non-examining)
  • Public Policy
• Major Emphasis Concentration (examining): At least nine hours in one concentration (excludes Political Methodology and Public Law fields), including certain required courses in the concentration field.
• Secondary Emphasis Concentration (non-examining): At least nine hours in a second concentration (may include Political Methodology and the Public Law field), including certain required courses in the concentration field.
• Electives: 3-6 hours to fulfill remaining degree requirements may be taken from additional courses in political science, other social sciences, history, or related fields.
• Other Degree Requirements: Comprehensive Oral Examination & Master’s Thesis or Non-Thesis Research Paper
  • P SC 5980 Master’s Thesis (six hours) or P SC 5950 for non-thesis research (three hours)
  • Presentation of thesis or research paper and oral comprehensive exam in the student’s primary concentration with three-member committee

Graduate Assistantships

• Graduate Teaching Assistantship (GTA): The University has made it a priority to increase Graduate Teaching Assistantship (GTA) stipends. Beginning fall 2024, a standard GTA stipend paid over nine months for a political science doctoral student is $20,000 and $17,500 for a master’s student.
• Institute for Public Policy Research and Analysis Fellowships: The Institute for Public Policy Research and Analysis (IPPRA) offers competitive Graduate Research Assistantships (GRA) to conduct research and data analysis and assist our affiliated faculty across a variety of externally-funded projects.

Current Students and Affiliations

• The Graduate Association in Political Science (GAPS) is a registered OU graduate student organization in which membership is reserved to those currently enrolled in the M.A. or Ph.D. in political science degree program at the University of Oklahoma.
• Affiliations include the Carl Albert Congressional Research and Studies Center, Community Engagement + Experimental Lab, and Institute for Public Policy Research and Analysis.

University of Oklahoma Summary

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Overview:

The University of Oklahoma (OU) is a comprehensive research university with a strong focus on innovation and educational excellence. It is a major contributor to the state of Oklahoma, impacting the lives of Oklahomans through scholarship, research, and healthcare. OU boasts a diverse student body representing 50 states, 76 Oklahoma counties, and 125+ countries.

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Services Offered:

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

OU offers a vibrant and diverse campus experience with over 400 student organizations. The university has a strong sense of community and is known for its spirited and driven atmosphere.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Strong Research Focus:

OU is a highly ranked research university, designated as a Highest Research Activity institution by the Carnegie Foundation.

Top-Ranked Programs:

OU is ranked #1 in the country for Aviation and Atmospheric Science & Meteorology.

Diverse Student Body:

OU welcomes students from across the globe, fostering a rich and inclusive learning environment.

Vibrant Campus Life:

With over 400 student organizations, OU offers a wide range of opportunities for students to engage in extracurricular activities and build community.

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Academic Programs:

OU offers over 170 academic programs across various disciplines. The university is particularly known for its strengths in research, aviation, atmospheric science, and healthcare.

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Other:

• OU has three campuses located in Norman, Oklahoma City, and Tulsa.
• The university is committed to supporting the state of Oklahoma through its research and educational initiatives.
• OU has a strong alumni network, with 80% of Oklahoma's healthcare professionals being OU graduates.