About Master’s Program,
The Department of Political Science offers the Master of Arts in Political Science degree with a diverse faculty maintaining a broad research agenda.
A wide range of opportunities exist for students who pursue a degree in political science and public administration at Mississippi State University. For those students who wish to advance their career through postgraduate study, the major offers excellent preparation for further education.
A high percentage of postgraduates study law and others pursue doctorates in the fields of public administration and political science. Many of our undergraduate majors gain employment directly after the baccalaureate degree, obtaining excellent positions in politics, federal and state government service, diplomacy, and executive and managerial positions in the liberal professions.
Many students enhance their chances of job placement by interning in Mississippi and Washington, D.C. Students also take part in programs that emphasize pre-law preparation and international affairs.
Master’s Program Degree Eligibility with GPA,
If all or part of the elective coursework is completed outside of political science, students must choose courses from no more than two other departments.
A minimum of 15 hours at the 8000-level is required.
The non-thesis program is open to anyone with at least 18 undergraduate semester hours in social science courses, including 9 hours in political science, who meets the minimum admission requirements.
*Non-Thesis track students must pass comprehensive exams on all coursework. It is the responsibility of the student to contact the MA Graduate Coordinator to schedule completion of their comprehensive exams during their final semester.
Master’s Funding Coverage,
Mississippi State University offers graduate students an array of financial aid opportunities. Financial aid is awarded in the form of grants, fellowships, loans, and part-time employment. Assistantships and fellowships are offered through the various academic and administrative departments, and links to external funding opportunities are provided.
This site is being maintained as an aid to graduate students in their quest to locate available funding sources. It will be updated as frequently as new sources are identified. Mississippi State University does not guarantee the accuracy of any data provided unless it is being maintained by this site.
Application Requirement,
You prepare and complete your application.
Review tips for a successful application.
Review both University and departmental deadlines.
Gather the full names and email addresses of three individuals to compose letters of recommendation.
Prepare your statement of purpose.
Review, edit, and finalize your resume/curriculum vitae and select a writing sample (if required).
Request your transcripts.
International students should have their test scores sent to The Graduate School (Examples: TOEFL or IELTS).
Application Deadline,
Aug 01, 2025
Application Fee,
Domestic applicants: $60
International applicants: $80