Questions about applying?
Admission for each program is based on a holistic evaluation of the applicant’s potential, whether it is for conducting rigorous social science research (Ph.D. program) or for professional work – Master of Public Administration (MPA) or Master of Arts in International Studies (MAIS).
Learn more about requirements and important dates
Doctoral Program
Located in the capital city, the University of South Carolina offers students of political science opportunities for deep study, innovative research and hands-on experience through local and state government partnerships.
The Ph.D. program offers six primary fields of study:
- American Politics
- Comparative Politics
- International Relations
- Political Theory
- Public Law
- Public Administration/Public Policy
Ph.D. candidates select a primary and secondary field of study from the six areas listed above, plus political methodology (secondary only). Through the selection of these fields, students design a flexible course of study and determine a topic for a dissertation.
Ph.D. students benefit from multi-year funding packages, financial support for conference presentations and research projects, assistance with publishing, professional placement services and more.
Master's Degrees
The Department of Political Science offers several options for master’s degrees. Students can earn a Master of Arts in International Studies or a Master of Public Administration with options to specialize.
Master of Arts in International Studies (MAIS)
This program is oriented toward professionals who aim to work in government, nonprofit or private sectors, both domestic and internationally.
Coursework combines relevant political science sub-fields (primarily International Relations and Comparative Politics) with skills in data analysis and research design. Students may choose a track with a thesis or a course-based track with more electives and an oral examination.
Master of Public Administration (MPA)
This program provides graduate and professional education that incorporates managerial and analytical skills while advancing students’ understanding of issues in the public sector.
Students prepare for careers in public administration, human resource management, policy analysis and more, with an optional concentration in Emergency Management and Planning. With three dual-degree and combined degrees programs available, students can further curate the M.P.A. degree to match their goals.
Dual and Combined Degrees
The M.P.A. program participates in three dual-degree programs with other academic units at the University of South Carolina. Learn more about dual-degree programs at USC and options for combined degrees programs with other institutions in South Carolina in the Graduate Bulletin.