MA in Political Science - Public Policy in Ames United States | Iowa State University

The majority of our students enroll in our Master of Arts (M.A.) in political science program, specializing in one of three focus areas: public policy, global politics, or American politics. This 30-credit program allows full-time students to complete three courses per semester, typically earning their degree within two years. We offer a low-residency online format for this degree, with both thesis and creative component options available. Our adaptable curriculum even enables students to meet the requirements for two concentrations within the two-year timeframe. Numerous government positions at federal, state, and local levels mandate a Master's degree as a minimum qualification, while in other scenarios, it can significantly enhance career advancement opportunities. The public policy concentration delves into policy execution details, organizational theories, program assessment techniques, public administration, ethical considerations in policymaking, and specialized fields like energy or information policy. This concentration is also available through our low-residency online program.