Political Science
Master's
Our Master of Arts in Political Science provides training in the core scholarly areas of political science, such as American government, international relations, comparative politics, and public policy.
Program overview
Training in political science
Master of Arts in Political Science serves as as a foundation for work in a doctoral program or as preparation for a career in government, a nonprofit organization, or the private sector.
With decades of outstanding scholarship, our MA students have gone on to pursue a wide range of opportunities. Many have used the degree as a foundation for doctoral work, taking advantage of the opportunity offered by our master’s program to take higher-level research courses with doctorate-level students. Others have utilized the degree as an academic foundation to a career in government, including work at the federal, state, and local level, as well as work in international development or relations.
Master of Arts in Political Science serves as as a foundation for work in a doctoral program or as preparation for a career in government, a nonprofit organization, or the private sector.
With decades of outstanding scholarship, our MA students have gone on to pursue a wide range of opportunities. Many have used the degree as a foundation for doctoral work, taking advantage of the opportunity offered by our master’s program to take higher-level research courses with doctorate-level students. Others have utilized the degree as an academic foundation to a career in government, including work at the federal, state, and local level, as well as work in international development or relations.
- Five concentrations: American government and politics, comparative government and politics, international relations, public policy, and security studies
- Students may pursue internships, a research thesis, experiential learning opportunities, or directed study
- Select courses offered online
Admissions
Apply to the program
A graduate degree or certificate from Northeastern can accelerate your career through rigorous academic coursework and real-world professional experience in your area of interest. Apply to take your career to the next level.
A graduate degree or certificate from Northeastern can accelerate your career through rigorous academic coursework and real-world professional experience in your area of interest. Apply to take your career to the next level.
Fall Term Entry
| Domestic and International In-country Deadline | August 15 |
| International Out-of-country Deadline | June 15 |
Spring Term Entry
| Domestic and International In-country Deadline | December 15 |
| International Out-of-country Deadline | November 1 |
Application
Application fee
Personal statement
Resumé
Three letters of recommendation
Unofficial transcripts from all institutions attended
The Foreign Credential Evaluation (FCE) is a required assessment of all transcripts and documents from non-U.S. accredited post-secondary education institutions. (Review the
by country.)
English proficiency for international applicants
GRE strongly encouraged for applicants with less than three years of professional experience
Writing sample
Program objectives
Prepare for success
In theoretical and practitioner-oriented courses, students focus on one of five core areas of research: American government and politics, comparative government and politics, international relations, public policy, and security studies.
Students gain expertise in subjects including American government, international relations, comparative politics, and public policy.
Students chose among a core list of signature concentrations in security studies, European studies, and Middle East studies and develop focused expertise.
Connect with us
Want more information?
We’re here to answer your questions about this program, the application process, and more. Complete the form below to receive additional program details and speak with a member of our enrollment team.
Occupations
Showing job titles from highest to lowest annual growth for ZIP code .
Showing job titles from highest to lowest annual growth for the postal code .
No companies available.
No skills available.
No job titles available.
Cost of attendance
Tuition and financial aid
-
$46,272 - $49,164Tuition in USD
Estimated Total Tuition
This is an estimate based on the tuition rates for Academic Year 2025-2026 and does not include any fees or other expenses. Some courses and labs have tuition rates that may increase or decrease total tuition. Tuition and fees are subject to revision by the president and Board of Trustees at any time. Select programs at select campuses offer additional scholarships of up to 25% off the listed price for domestic students studying on campus. For more detailed information, please visit Student Financial Services.
For students interested in pursuing financial assistance or educational loans, additional educational costs, known as Cost of Attendance (COA) components, can be included in the calculation of aid and loan eligibility. Components may include food, housing, books, course materials, supplies, equipment, transportation, personal expenses, and the cost of obtaining a first professional licensure. You can find comprehensive details on the Student Financial Services website. Please keep in mind that COA can vary significantly depending on academic program, enrollment intensity, and individual circumstances.
There are many ways to pay for your education, including scholarships, financial aid, and more. Connect with a financial counselor to learn about your options and make your dream a reality.
Visit tuition & financial aidTotal Cost of Attendance: This figure reflects the cost-per-credit pricing for the current academic year. The total cost of attendance is dependent on the pace at which students complete the program. Please visit the Student Financial Services site for a more detailed breakdown of pricing per credit and other program fees.
A hub of innovation
Northeastern's first campus builds on Boston's legacy of innovation. Our 37-plus research facilities allow students and faculty to work on groundbreaking research, while our deep ties to the biotech, healthcare, education, and startup industries provide unique opportunities for learning.
#1
Best state to live in
(WalletHub, 2023)
110K+
Northeastern alumni in Greater Boston
#3
Best state for education
(U.S. News & World Report, 2024)