MA in Political Science - Political Theory in New York United States | Columbia University

The MA program offers comprehensive advanced education in political science and its research methodologies. Participants complete a minimum of five Political Science Department courses while mastering a key research technique. Students can tailor their studies to specialize in particular interest areas or subdisciplines. The department features four primary subfields: American politics, comparative politics, international relations, and political theory. American politics examines U.S. political systems including electoral processes, governmental structures, policy formation, and social movements. Comparative politics analyzes political systems globally, exploring how cultural, developmental, and governmental differences shape political dynamics worldwide. International relations investigates state interactions, global institutions, transnational entities, and the role of international law. Political theory addresses fundamental questions of political philosophy, studying historical thought while contributing new perspectives on enduring political concepts.