Political Science, M.A.

Program Description

polisci.ucmerced.edu
Contact: Political Science Graduate Group Chair, poligrad@ucmerced.edu  

The Political Science program offers quantitatively focused training in two broad areas: Political Cognition & Behavior (CAB) and Political Institutions & Political Economy (PIPE). The program is research intensive, innovative, and tailored to students’ individual interest within the field of Political Science. Students are admitted to the Political Science Program to work toward a Ph.D. degree. The M.A. degree is offered only as an option for students admitted to the Ph.D. program.

Program Learning Outcomes

Upon graduating, we expect students to have:

1. A Master’s-level understanding of processes, theories, and empirical regularities in the student’s chosen area of emphasis (Political Cognition & Behavior or Political Institutions & Political Economy).
2. The ability to critique, analyze, and evaluate social science methods used to conduct research on political phenomena.
3. Effective scientific communication skills, especially the ability to convey complex concepts and information in a clear and concise manner.