Northern Arizona University

What you'll study

The programme combines advanced coursework in political science with training in research methods and options for either a thesis or a practicum/non‑thesis capstone. Core content typically includes seminars in political theory, American government, comparative politics and international relations, alongside methods courses in qualitative and quantitative research design, statistics, and data analysis.

• Core modules: research methods in political science, political theory, institutions and behaviour.
• Substantive fields: American politics and public law, comparative politics, international relations, public policy and administration, and political economy.
• Methods and skills: qualitative methods, survey research, regression and quantitative analysis, GIS or advanced data visualisation where available.
• Capstone options: thesis (original research with faculty supervision) or non‑thesis route involving a practicum/internship and comprehensive examination.
• Electives and professional development: internships with government, NGOs or advocacy groups; seminars on campaign strategy, policy analysis, and research ethics.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised bachelor’s degree in political science or a related field. Departments typically look for evidence of solid academic preparation and quantitative or research skills.

• A completed undergraduate degree from an accredited institution; coursework in political science, statistics or research methods is advantageous.
• A competitive undergraduate GPA (programmes commonly expect a B average or equivalent).
• Supporting documents: official transcripts, a statement of purpose outlining research interests and career goals, and academic references; a CV/resume is usually required.
• Standardised tests: check the department’s current policy—some graduate programmes require or consider GRE scores while others have waived them.
• International applicants: proof of English language proficiency via recognised tests unless exempted by prior English‑medium study.

Career prospects

Graduates leave prepared for a range of roles in public, private and non‑profit sectors or for further academic study. The degree emphasises analytical and research skills that are directly transferable to policy and decision‑making environments.

• Policy analyst or researcher in government agencies, think tanks and advocacy organisations.
• Public administration and management roles at local, state or federal levels.
• Legislative staff, campaign management, and political consultancy.
• Positions in international organisations, NGOs, and diplomacy where expertise in international relations or comparative politics is valued.
• Progression to doctoral study (PhD) in political science or related social sciences for those aiming for academic or high‑level research careers.

Why study at Northern Arizona University

Northern Arizona University offers a politically engaged department with accessible faculty supervision and relatively small graduate cohorts, allowing close mentorship on research projects. Located in Flagstaff, the programme benefits from proximity to state government institutions, regional NGOs and unique field research opportunities across the US‑Mexico borderlands and Indigenous communities.

• Faculty expertise: faculty with research strengths across American politics, comparative politics, public policy and international affairs who supervise student research agendas.
• Applied opportunities: internship links with state and local agencies, NGOs and community organisations in Arizona provide practical experience alongside academic study.
• Research resources: access to university research centres, library collections and methodological training in both qualitative and quantitative techniques.
• Community and location: a campus environment that supports fieldwork in regional policy areas such as environmental politics, border studies and Indigenous governance.