The Course-Based Stream of the MA in Political Studies consists of course work and a major research paper.

Course Work

Students in the comprehensive stream of the MA program must complete a minimum of 18 credit hours in Political Studies at the 7000 level. In some cases and with written permission of the Department's Graduate Committee, students may substitute 6 credit hours of course work at the 7000 level in a related discipline or may be permitted to take 3 credit hours of course work at the 4000/7000 level in a related discipline. Students are required to complete POLS 7300 Research Methods in the Study of Politics (3ch) (or its equivalent) and POLS 7100 Study of Politics (3ch) and the Major Research Paper (POLS 7110).

Major Research Paper

The Major Research Paper (MRP) will be a piece of original writing based on research that may include primary sources. It will normally be 6,000 - 8,000 words in length (25-30 pages).

Major Research Paper Review

The student will meet first with the Graduate Chair and then with their MRP advisor to develop the topic and research approach. The final paper will be assessed by the MRP advisor and a second reader. Students must achieve a minimum grade of B on the paper to pass. If that grade is not achieved, students will be permitted to submit the MRP a second time. Those who do not achieve a grade of B on the second submission will be required to withdraw from the program. If there is disagreement between the MRP advisor and second reader on the final grade, the chair of the Graduate Committee will be asked to make a decision on the final grade.

Students should be familiar with the Supplemental Regulations, available here.