The Master of Arts in Political Science, Political Analysis Specialization, Plan B offers advanced training in empirical inquiry while gaining a sophisticated understanding of politics and political processes. The specialization prepares students for careers as analysts in a broad range of organizations including government, non-profits, campaigns, advocacy groups, and the private sector.
Effective Fall 2021
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Required Courses: | ||
| POLS 624 | Scope and Methods of Political Science | 3 |
| POLS 625 | Quantitative Methods of Political Research I | 3 |
| POLS 693 | Advanced Topics--Research Methods | 3 |
| Select one course from the following: 1 | 3 | |
| Qualitative Methods in Political Science | ||
| Quantitative Methods of Political Research II | ||
| Track Electives 2 | 9 | |
| Traditional Subfield Courses (Select one option below): | 9 | |
| First Option: | ||
Three courses across the subfields of American Politics, Comparative Politics, International Relations, Political Theory, Public Policy and Public Administration, Environmental Politics and Policy, or the Power, Justice and Democracy Specialization | ||
| Second Option: | ||
Two courses in one POLS subfield | ||
| Approaches to the Study of Politics | ||
| Electives 3 | 6 | |
| Program Total Credits: | 36 | |
A minimum of 36 credits are required to complete this program.
- 1
If students do not take POLS 621, at least 3 credits of Track Electives must focus on qualitative methodology.
- 2
At least 3 credits in POLS. For example: Environmental Research Methods, Environmental Organizations and Networks, Surveys and Experiments, International Research Methods, Field Research, Participatory Action Research, Comparative Research Methods, Data Visualization; other graduate and undergraduate (at least 300 level) methods courses from Statistics, Sociology, Anthropology, Computer Science, Public Health, and other departments (consistent with restrictions in the graduate handbook); other Political Science courses with a methodological component – e.g. culminating in a research project or focusing on a particular research method in addition to substantive theories.
- 3
Students may choose substantive or methodological courses from across the university that best fit their intellectual and professional goals, subject to the approval of their advisor. An internship may account for three of these credits. POLS 620 may be an appropriate elective if not taken in fulfillment of Traditional Subfield Courses.