www.ohiou.edu/pols

The Department of Political Science offers two graduate degrees: the Master of Arts in political science and the Master of Public Administration.

To begin work on either degree, you should have the equivalent of 27 hours of undergraduate work in political science and/or public administration, but applications are also considered from persons with academic backgrounds in closely related areas or with relevant practical experience, especially for admission to the M.P.A. program.

Master of Public Administration

The M.P.A. is a specialized, professionally oriented degree. It requires 70 hours of graduate work in public policy and administration, including an administrative internship or practicum. Requirements include the submission of a portfolio to a committee of two public administration faculty members. Detailed program requirements are available in the department office.

To apply to the M.P.A. program, submit the application form together with transcripts of previous academic work, three letters of recommendation, and either Graduate Record Exam or Graduate Management Admissions Test scores. You may begin coursework during any quarter of the academic year, but fall quarter is recommended.

Financial Aid

A number of graduate assistantships are available to qualified applicants in both degree programs. Graduate assistants in the M.A. program are normally expected to assist faculty members in the instruction of introductory courses or in their research. Graduate assistants in the M.P.A. program are normally expected to assist the Institute for Local Government Administration and Rural Development. Tuition scholarships are available to all graduate assistants; Recruitment stipends are available to a limited number of other students in both programs. To seek financial aid for the following academic year, fill out the appropriate section of the application and submit all application materials by February 15.

The Department of Political Science works closely with several interdisciplinary programs, including the Center for International Studies, Contemporary History Institute, Women’s Studies Program, Environmental Studies Program, and the Voinovich School of Leadership and Public Affairs.