Political Science MA

About the Master's in Political Science at Loyola

The master's in political science program offered through Loyola's well-respected Department of Political Science will provide you with powerful preparation for career opportunities ranging from politics and policymaking to education and law, and virtually all points in between.

The program offers a solid theoretical and practical foundation in methodological techniques and research design, with training in American politics, comparative politics, international relations, and political theory.

Courses are conducted in seminar format for a dynamic and engaging learning experience. Your courses will be led by accomplished faculty mentors who will get to know you and personally support you and your future goals.

Program Structure

The master's in political science can be taken on a full-time or part-time basis. Classes are held at the Lake Shore Campus, located on Chicago's North Side, right along Lake Michigan in a diverse and dynamic residential area.

The MA in Political Science is a 10-course, 30-credit-hour program that includes three required methods courses, seven electives, and the completion of either an internship, thesis, or comprehensive exam.

You can complete the program full time in as little as 18 months or take up to five years to finish as a part-time student.

Are you a current Loyola undergrad?

This program is eligible for an Accelerated Bachelor's to Master's degree. Earn a Master’s with only one extra year of study following the completion of your eligible undergraduate degree.

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Why Choose Loyola for Your Master's in Political Science?

The Political Science MA at Loyola University Chicago will give you the strong foundation you need for your future career in politics, policymaking, and more.

A faculty of accomplished professionals and renowned scholars

You will learn from an expert faculty of accomplished professionals, renowned scholars, and engaged mentors. Many bring extensive experience in the legal profession, military, politics, and the foreign service, and have earned prestigious research grants.

Through professional development and networking workshops with faculty and those in the field, you will have abundant opportunities to make connections that can lead to jobs.

You can take advantage of graduate internships and advanced research opportunities in the heart of Chicago, a hotbed of governmental, policymaking, and research institutions.

Courses in the program are capped at 20 students to ensure you gain the most individualized experience possible. You'll be able to earn your degree in just 18 months, less than the typical two-year graduate program.

Whether your interests and goals are in international relations, comparative politics, American politics, or political theory, you may choose electives that suit your focus.

Political Science Department

The Department of Political Science specializes in various aspects of politics, including the institutions of American government, constitutional law, political systems in Africa, Asia, Europe and Latin America, foreign policy and international relations, and political theory, past and present. Find stories showcasing current students and graduates from the Political Science MA program and learn more about why Loyola is right for you.

Department WebsiteDepartment News and Stories

Meet the Faculty

Loyola is proud to have talented and nationally-recognized scholar-teachers as part of our diverse community of exceptional faculty, students and staff. Loyola faculty are known for their commitment to teaching, the dissemination of knowledge through innovative and interdisciplinary scholarly research, and a commitment to social justice and cura personalis, or care for the whole person. Visit the department faculty and staff directory to learn more about the teachers and mentors involved with the Political Science MA program.

Faculty

Curriculum and Program Outcomes

While courses for the Political Science MA program may vary from semester to semester, Loyola’s extensive Academic Catalog will always house the official listing of courses, programs of study, academic policies, degree requirements, and specialization or concentration options.

Additionally, this resource will provide Political Science MA learning outcomes, showcasing the commitment to specific skills and growth graduates can expect to achieve following completion of the program.

2023-2024 Catalog
Browse Academic Catalog

Costs, Scholarships, and Aid

Loyola University Chicago is committed to making your graduate and professional studies a reality. Our Cost & Financial Aid page can help better inform you about the costs and potential funding opportunities through scholarships, loans, and aid for graduate and professional education.

If you are a current Loyola undergraduate or recent alum, you may be eligible for a Returning Rambler discount. Learn more and see if you qualify on our Returning Rambler Scholarship page.

Tuition and Costs

The estimated tuition and fees for the Political Science MA totals $34950.00, or 30 credit hours at a cost of $1,165.00 per credit hour. Please note that tuition and fees for all of Loyola's academic programs are subject to change.

For more detailed information about tuition and fees, and a breakdown of how these costs are calculated on a yearly basis, please visit Tuition and Fees from the Office of the Bursar.

The Graduate School Scholarships

Information about funding opportunities within The Graduate School can be found on The Graduate School website.

Appointments and Events

Whether you’re just beginning your search, in the midst of the application process, or eager to explore our graduate and professional programs, our admissions staff is here to assist you every step of the way.

Schedule an Appointment

The Graduate School offers graduate open houses, information sessions, individual appointments, open Zoom and text sessions, and a multitude of other ways to get to know us better.

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Visit and Connect With Us

With our visit opportunities, you can tour our beautiful Chicago campuses and learn more about Loyola's ties to one of the most prestigious cities in the world.

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Application Process

Application Deadlines

The available start terms and corresponding application deadlines for the Political Science MA are listed below. Please keep in mind that both the application and the required materials must be submitted by the specified deadline.

Fall: June 1
Funding Deadline: February 15
Spring: October 1

Please note that applications are not reviewed until the deadline passes.

Application Requirements

Application requirements for the Political Science MA include:

  • Official Transcripts

  • 2 Letters of Recommendation

  • 3.0 Minimum GPA

  • Statement of Purpose

Prerequisite Course Requirements

Admission to the Political Science MA program requires at least 24 semester hours of undergraduate coursework in political science or related fields.

Statement of Purpose Details

Applicants to the Political Science MA degree program should submit a statement of purpose, not to exceed two double-spaced pages, describing academic interests and professional goals and responding to the following questions: What specific areas are you interested in taking coursework while pursuing an MA in Political Science? What relevant experiences have you had that have informed your decision and prepared you to pursue a graduate degree? What are your career goals following completion of your MA?

Official Documents

Official transcripts are those that are sent directly by the college/university to Loyola University Chicago. Transcripts sent by the student to Loyola are considered unofficial documents, and while they may be utilized for initial review of your application, official transcripts are still required. Official documents should be sent by the institution to gradapp@luc.edu.

International Applicant Requirements

An official English language proficiency exam is required for international applicants whose native language is not English. If you have non-U.S. educational credentials, you are required to submit an official transcript evaluation. The transcript evaluation cannot be waived.

Please visit our International Applicant Requirements page for specific information regarding the application process for international students.

International Applicant Requirements
Start Your Application

Applying online to the Political Science MA program is a swift, uncomplicated, and cost-free process. After submission, you can proceed to send and upload any additional requirements.

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Globalization in the form of growing interconnectedness of the world's almost 200 countries and the substantial impact of global forces on our daily lives has increased the need for professionals with advanced knowledge of international affairs. This program allows you to explore global problems and interactions from an interdisciplinary perspective that encompasses multiple academic departments.

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