The master of arts program in political science focuses on the study of politics and public policy. Faculty members in the program work closely with the School of Public Affairs and Administration and with several departments of the Newark College of Arts and Sciences, the School of Law-Newark, Rutgers Business School, the School of Criminal Justice, the Division of Global Affairs, and the Cornwall Center.
Areas of major specialization are the American political system and international relations. Courses also are available in comparative political systems and political theory and methodology. Students seeking the M.A. degree must complete 30 credits of coursework, including the core course 26:790:533 Research Methods in Political Science. In addition, they must complete successfully a comprehensive examination in one area. A thesis option also is available.
The School of Law-Newark and the Graduate School-Newark offer a concurrent juris doctor/master of arts degree in political science. As many as 12 of the 30 credits required for the M.A. degree may be satisfied by approved courses in the law school. Separately, with approval of the law school, a law student may take as many as 9 credits in political science as electives in the J.D. program. Students wishing to participate in this program must be admitted to both the Graduate School-Newark and the School of Law-Newark.
