Auburn University at Montgomery

What you'll study

The programme emphasises core areas of political science while allowing specialisation through elective choices. Core topics typically include political theory, comparative politics, American government and institutions, public policy analysis, and advanced research methods. Students study qualitative and quantitative techniques for political research, design and conduct original research projects, and engage with contemporary debates in governance, elections, public administration and international relations.

• Research methods and statistics: courses in research design, data analysis, and applied statistics for social science.
• American politics: study of Congress, the presidency, state and local government, political behaviour and public opinion.
• Comparative and international politics: comparative political systems, international institutions and global governance.
• Public policy and administration: policy formation, implementation, evaluation and administrative law.
• Political theory and ethics: normative foundations and contemporary theoretical debates.
• Capstone or thesis: preparation of a master’s thesis or a practicum/culminating project that applies theory and methods to a substantive policy or governance problem.

The programme is offered with flexible scheduling, including evening and some online course options, to accommodate working professionals. Full-time and part-time study paths are normally available.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. A degree in political science or a related social science is preferred but not mandatory; applicants with other academic backgrounds and relevant work experience are also considered. Typical application materials include official undergraduate transcripts, a statement of purpose outlining academic and professional goals, a curriculum vitae or résumé, and letters of recommendation.

The department considers undergraduate GPA as part of the admission decision; applicants with marginal GPAs who demonstrate relevant professional experience or academic potential may be admitted on a conditional basis. Standardised tests such as the GRE are not universally required but may be requested in particular cases. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency in accordance with university regulations.

Career prospects

Graduates of the master’s in Political Science and Government pursue a variety of careers in the public and private sectors. Common professional destinations include:

• State and local government roles, including policy analyst, legislative aide, and public affairs specialist.
• Federal government and civil service positions in agencies, regulatory bodies and diplomatic services.
• Non-profit and advocacy organisations, including programme management, research and outreach roles.
• Political campaigns, polling firms, and consulting practices focused on public opinion and strategy.
• Research institutes, think tanks and applied policy research positions.
• Further academic study such as doctoral programmes in political science or professional degrees such as law.

Why study at Auburn University at Montgomery

Auburn University at Montgomery offers a programme with close faculty engagement, small class sizes and opportunities for applied learning in Alabama’s capital region. The department’s location creates convenient access to state government offices, legislative bodies and public agencies, facilitating internships and practicum placements that connect coursework to professional experience.

Students benefit from faculty who teach and conduct research across subfields of political science, mentoring for research projects and thesis supervision, and a supportive environment for both full-time students and working professionals. Flexible scheduling, including evening and online course options, helps students balance study with employment and community commitments.

Overall, the programme is suited to those seeking rigorous training in political analysis and research, practical experience in policy and governance, and preparation for careers in public service, advocacy, research or further academic study.