Department of Political Science

1005 Langdale Hall
Tel: 404-413-6159
Fax: 404-413-6156
Email: polsci@gsu.edu
politicalscience.gsu.edu

Michael Herb, Chair
Ryan E. Carlin, Director of Graduate Studies
Charles R Hankla, M.A. Program Director

The purpose of the Master of Arts (M.A.) degree program is to guide students in the development of analytical and critical capabilities through inquiry into political and governmental processes. The objective of the program is to provide education for persons interested in pursuing careers in research, teaching, or the professional practice of public service and politics. Students can choose a degree program that will provide them with a general knowledge of the discipline, or one that will provide them with a specialization in American politics, international and comparative politics, or the professional practices of government and politics.

A Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) prepares students for careers in research and teaching. Students enhance their skills by furthering their knowledge of the literature of the discipline, increasing their methodological ability, and writing a publishable dissertation. The Ph.D. program produces scholars who are experts in their substantive field of study and who are able to combine theoretical sophistication with methodological rigor.

Applicants may obtain additional information about the Department of Political Science by contacting the Director of Graduate Studies at the addresses above.

Additional Admission Requirements

In addition to the general requirements of the College of Arts and Sciences, the Department of Political Science has the following requirements:

1. Applicants to the M.A. degree program must:
   • Submit acceptable scores on the verbal, quantitative, and analytical sections of the GRE, except when specially waived by the Director of Graduate Studies.
   • Have an acceptable cumulative undergraduate grade-point average and the equivalent of at least a minor in political science.
   • Submit two letters of recommendation from individuals who can evaluate the applicant’s potential to do graduate work in political science or a related field.
   • Submit official transcripts from all colleges and/or universities applicant has attended.
   • Submit a statement of research interest and goals for political science degree.
   • Submit a writing sample demonstrating graduate level research capabilities
2. Applicants to the Ph.D. degree program must:
   • Submit acceptable scores on the verbal, quantitative, and analytical sections of the GRE.
   • Have an acceptable cumulative master’s grade-point average and substantial prior coursework in political science or a related field, preferably with a thesis.
   • Submit three letters of recommendation from individuals who can evaluate the applicant’s potential to do graduate work in political science.
   • Submit official transcripts from all colleges and/or universities attended.
   • Submit a statement of research interests and goals for political science degree.
   • Submit a writing sample demonstrating graduate level research capabilities
   • Applicants who intend to pursue comparative politics as their major field should have at least one year of college level training in a world language.