Political Science M.A. Admissions
- Admissions Deadline
- Admissions Requirements
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- Frequently Asked Questions about Political Science Graduate Admissions
Admission Requirements
- Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. Applicants are expected to have some academic training in political science. Generally, a minimum of 18 semester hours of undergraduate work in political science (approximately six courses) or the equivalent is expected, although exceptions can be made for those with coursework in closely related fields or with practical political or administrative experience.
- Minimum GPA of 3.0 for unconditional admission. Applicants with less than a 3.0 overall GPA, who have a 3.0 or better in Political Science or other compensating qualifications (such as political or administrative experience and training) can be admitted only on a conditional basis. Students with a GPA below a 3.0 are required to take the GRE. Conditionally admitted students must maintain at least a 3.0 average during the first 12 hours of coursework to be retained in the program and are not eligible for financial assistance during this period. In certain cases, an applicant who lacks the necessary background may be admitted as a special non-degree student. Courses taken in this status do not count toward the degree but can be used to provide the necessary back ground for admission and to demonstrate the ability to handle graduate-level work.
- Three letters of recommendation.
- Writing sample may be submitted but is not required.
- Resume or vitae is required.
- Personal Statement of purpose (approximately 500 words).
- English Proficiency. All non-native English speakers must demonstrate English proficiency by submitting official test scores for either the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS academic). To be considered official, test scores must be reported directly from the testing agency to Ohio University. Minimum TOEFL-iBT 80. IELTS 6.5 minimum across all bands. See more information on English Proficiency.
- See more information about Ohio University's graduate admission requirements.
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All graduate applications must be submitted electronically through the Graduate College.
Admissions Deadlines
For admission with full financial aid from the Political Science Department (tuition scholarship plus Graduate/Teaching Assistantship), applications received by Dec. 15 will receive priority consideration. Students who apply by Feb. 15 will be considered for admission and a second round of financial aid awards. Applications received after Feb. 15 will still be considered for admission, without financial aid, and may also be considered for Graduate Recruitment Scholarships (tuition support).
International students are strongly encouraged to apply by the Dec. 15 deadline to allow time for visa application and processing.