West Texas A&M University Centennial Logo

Department of Political Science and Criminal Justice

Master of Arts (M.A.) Degree

Major in Political Science (Major Code: 5110)

General Requirements

The student may take work in a general field or concentrate in areas such as American government, state and local government, public administration or international politics.

30-Hour Thesis Program

  • 18–30 semester hours in political science, including POSC 6301, 6302, 6387 and 6388.
  • With approval of the graduate adviser, the student may elect an additional field of study of at least six but not more than 12 semester hours.
  • At least 21 of the total 30 semester hours must be taken at the 6000 level.
  • Students will be required to pass an oral comprehensive examination over the thesis upon its completion.

36-Hour Non-Thesis Program

  • 24–36 semester hours in political science, including POSC 6387 and 6388.
  • With approval of the graduate adviser, the student may elect an additional field of study of at least six but not more than 12 semester hours.
  • At least 24 of the total 36 semester hours must be taken at the 6000 level.
  • Students will be required to pass a written comprehensive examination in their areas of concentration. Students may also be required to pass an oral comprehensive examination at the discretion of the department.