Pursuing versatility and policy relevance, the MA degree program offers coursework and supervised student research in the fields of American politics, comparative politics, international relations, public law, political theory, public administration and public policy. Specialized fields are periodically redefined, in light of current developments and faculty/student interests. In developing their program of study, some MA students take advantage of NMSU's location on the US-Mexico border and the active involvement of the university community in many international programs.Others pursue academic programs in Security studies, Latin American studies, International Affairs and Public Affairs.
Courses at the graduate level cover the major subfields in political science. Under development is a Specialization in Security Studies for graduate students in the Government program. The core classes will include National Security Policy, Terrorism, and Advanced Intelligence Studies. In addition, a new Minor in Security Studies is now available for graduate students from other academic fields.
The M.A. program requires 36 credit hours of class work, and provides both a thesis option and a non-thesis option involving a specialized academic project. At the end of the first semester of course work (or upon the completion of 9 credits), each student meets with his or her adviser to choose between the thesis and non-thesis options.
The graduate program is sufficiently small to encourage a supportive environment for individual growth through small seminar instruction and close faculty supervision. The presence of students from throughout the country, nearby military bases and abroad provides ample opportunities for cross cultural contact in a stimulating learning environment.
I hope you enjoy your visit to the Department of Government. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to call at (505) 646-4935.