M.A. in Political Science

Entry Requirements for Postgraduate Programs

Application Fees : US$ 80

1. Academic Qualifications:

• Applicants should have completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution.
• A minimum overall percentage of 83-86 or its equivalent is typically required for admission.

2. English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: An overall score of at least 7.5 with no individual band score below 6.5.
• TOEFL iBT: A minimum overall score of 100 is often required.

3.  Score reporting required.

Mississippi State University (MSU) recognizes the importance of providing financial assistance to international students to help them pursue their higher education goals. The university offers a variety of scholarships to support the academic achievements and contributions of international students. These scholarships are designed to recognize excellence, diversity, and leadership. 

1. Global Excellence Scholarship: The Global Excellence Scholarship is awarded to high-achieving international students based on their academic merit. This scholarship recognizes students who have demonstrated exceptional academic performance in their previous studies. The scholarship amount varies and is renewable based on maintaining a specified GPA.

2. International Student Scholarships: MSU offers a range of scholarships specifically for international students. These scholarships consider factors such as academic achievement, leadership potential, and contributions to the campus community. Award amounts and eligibility criteria may vary.

3. Intensive English Institute (IEI) Scholarships: MSU's IEI offers scholarships to international students who enroll in English language programs. These scholarships help students improve their English language skills before pursuing their academic studies at the university.

4. Departmental Scholarships: Various academic departments at MSU offer scholarships to international students who are pursuing specific fields of study. These scholarships are often based on academic performance, research interests, and involvement in departmental activities.

5. Cultural Exchange Scholarships: MSU encourages cultural exchange by offering scholarships to international students from specific countries or regions. These scholarships promote diversity and foster a global learning environment on campus.

6. Graduate Assistantships: International graduate students may have the opportunity to work as research or teaching assistants, which can come with a stipend, tuition waiver, and valuable work experience.

7. External Scholarships: MSU provides information and guidance to international students seeking external scholarships, grants, or funding opportunities offered by government agencies, foundations, and organizations.

Application Process: The application process for scholarships at MSU may vary depending on the scholarship program. Generally, students need to complete their application for admission to the university before they can be considered for scholarships. Some scholarships may require additional essays, letters of recommendation, or a statement of purpose.

Deadlines: Scholarship application deadlines vary and are often aligned with the university's admission application deadlines.

Mississippi State University (MSU) offers a Master of Arts (M.A.) in Political Science program that equips students with advanced knowledge and skills in the field of political science. Graduates of this program are well-prepared for a wide range of career opportunities in government, academia, international organizations, advocacy groups, and more.  

1. Public Policy Analyst: Graduates can work as public policy analysts, evaluating government policies, proposing solutions to societal issues, and providing recommendations to policymakers. They may work in government agencies, think tanks, or research institutions.

2. Legislative Assistant: Many graduates find employment as legislative assistants for elected officials, helping draft legislation, conducting research, and advising on policy matters. This role often involves working in federal, state, or local government offices.

3. Political Consultant: Graduates may pursue careers as political consultants, providing strategic advice to political candidates, parties, or advocacy groups. They help develop campaign strategies, conduct polling, and manage communications efforts.

4. Nonprofit Organization Manager: Nonprofit organizations focused on various causes often hire political science graduates as managers or directors. These professionals oversee operations, fundraising, and advocacy efforts.

5. Government Affairs Specialist: Government affairs specialists work for corporations, associations, or nonprofits to monitor and influence government policies and regulations. They engage with lawmakers and agencies to ensure their organizations' interests are represented.

6. Diplomat/Foreign Service Officer: Graduates interested in international relations can pursue careers as diplomats or foreign service officers. They represent the United States abroad, negotiate treaties, and engage in diplomatic efforts to promote U.S. interests.

7. Political Science Educator: Some graduates opt for careers in academia, becoming political science educators at colleges and universities. They teach courses, conduct research, and contribute to the academic field.

8. Campaign Manager: Campaign managers play a crucial role in political campaigns, overseeing strategy, fundraising, and campaign staff. Graduates with political acumen can excel in this high-pressure role.

9. Market Research Analyst: Graduates can work as market research analysts, applying their research and data analysis skills to understand consumer behavior and market trends. This role is valuable in both the public and private sectors.

10. Intelligence Analyst: Some graduates choose careers as intelligence analysts, working for government agencies or private firms to assess threats, analyze data, and provide intelligence reports to inform decision-making.

11. Policy Advocate: Graduates passionate about specific issues can work as policy advocates, representing organizations or causes to influence public policy. They engage in lobbying, public awareness campaigns, and coalition-building efforts.

12. Lawyer: While an M.A. in Political Science is not a law degree, it can serve as a foundation for those who plan to attend law school. Many political science graduates pursue legal careers as attorneys or legal consultants.

13. Journalist/Political Correspondent: Graduates with strong communication skills can become political journalists or correspondents, covering government and political events for media outlets.

14. City Planner: Some graduates find opportunities in urban planning, working with local governments to develop policies and plans for land use, transportation, and community development.

15. Ph.D. Candidate: For those aspiring to pursue advanced research and teaching roles, the M.A. can be a stepping stone to a Ph.D. program in political science or a related field.