Political Science

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Program Description
 

Lehigh’s Political Science Department offers two graduate programs designed to develop professionals who can think critically and creatively about the political and public policy process. Students receive a broad multidisciplinary education that prepares them for leadership positions in government, non-profit organizations, and for an array of careers in the private sector.

M.A. in Politics and Policy

In the M.A. program, students earn a traditional degree with a theoretical framework. Students can complete the program in a single calendar year (30 credit hours) and often choose to continue their academic careers in doctoral programs or enroll in law school.

Master of Public Policy

The M.P.P. is a distinctive program that focuses on analytic methods and trains students to successfully develop creative solutions to intricate policy problems. The program can be completed in a single calendar year (30 credit hours) and allows students to gain skills in:
  • qualitative and quantitative analysis
  • grant writing
  • analysis of complex policy environments
Students in both programs may also choose to participate in a Community Fellowship, which combines rigorous academic training with a hands-on, community-based internship in a local agency.
 
Recent graduates have secured careers in health policy analysis, administration in nonprofit and public organizations, grant administration, organizational development, community organizing, state and local government leadership, lobbying, and communications.

Research

As a political science graduate student, you will have the opportunity to conduct your own independent research (as part of an independent study, master’s paper or thesis) or work with faculty members on their projects. Some recent student projects include studies of predatory lending practices in Lehigh Valley and regional Latino political activism, program reviews of the Market-Towns Initiative in the Delaware-Lehigh River Heritage Corridor and Community Action Committee of Lehigh Valley’s Green Futures Fund, and an evaluation of the impact of direct foreign investment on democratization in former communist-bloc nations.

Application Requirements
 
M.A., Political Science
  • Completed online application
  • Official transcripts
  • 3 letters of recommendation
  • GRE scores, accepted but not required
  • If applicable, English language proficiency test scores - Review full policy here
     
    M.P.P., Public Policy
     
    • Completed online application
    • Official transcripts
    • 3 letters of recommendation
    • GRE scores, accepted but not required
    • If applicable, English language proficiency test scores - Review full policy here


      Financial Aid

      Applicants who are applying for Fall 2023 with department financial aid consideration must complete their applications by March 1, 2023. 
      • Teaching Assistantships – Includes Stipend and Tuition
      • Graduate Assistantships - Available throughout campus. Awards vary based on position.
      • Scholarships - Tuition Only
       

      Department Contact

      Brian Fife, Graduate Director
      Email: blf218@lehigh.edu
      Phone: 610-758-3338  
       

      Department website