Theory, Research and Experiential Learning in one Master’s Program
The University of Wyoming political science Master’s degree program allows students
to study important questions about politics through research and experiential opportunities
in a collegial environment.
Fitting of an advanced degree offered in the west, the master’s degree program in
political science at UW allows you to craft a program of study across the major areas
of political science such as American Politics, Comparative Politics, International
Relations, Public Law, Political Theory, and other areas of interest.
Better yet, we have significant resources to help with travel and research expenses,
so you can pursue an intellectual expedition almost anywhere in the world.
After graduation, our political science master’s students have gone on to careers
in government, law, tech and nonprofits while others pursue doctorates at universities
all over the country.
Tailor your political science master’s degree even further by choosing to complete
a research-based thesis working with a faculty adviser (Plan A) or a culminating paper
(Plan B).
One recent thesis example includes the following:
- "European Integration in Bosnia & Herzegovina: The Impact EU Communication Policy Has on Peace in Bosnia"
Get to know our outstanding professors. UW’s political science faculty have a diverse range of academic and research interests, including American politics (in areas such the presidency, Congress, our voting system and public opinion), comparative politics (specifically political culture and human security and politics in Europe, Asia and other regions), international relations (with focus areas in organizations and human security) and political theory (in which we have faculty studying the meaning of democratic citizenship and postmodernism).
What Can You Do With a Political Science Master’s Degree?
Political science is a discipline you can use no matter where your journey takes you. The research and writing skills, the habits of mind and the understanding of systems, human behavior and data translate into jobs in industry, government and the nonprofit sector.
In addition to pursuing law degrees and Ph.Ds, graduates from the UW political science program have distinguished themselves in the highest echelons of government, including vice president of the United States. Our alumni have also made contributions to prominent political campaigns, worked in Congressional offices (both the House and the Senate), the state department, law and academia.
UW's political science M.A. graduates have held titles as:
- U.S. Congressman
- Chair of the Health Informatics and Information Management Department at
- the College of St. Scholastica
Assistant Professor of Political Science at California Polytechnic State University - Public Policy Analyst at the Wyoming Survey and Analysis Center
- Media Affairs specialist U.S. Department of State
- Director of Analytics and Data Science at Podium
Alumni have gone on to doctoral degree programs at these institutions:
- Loyola University in Chicago
- Miami University
- University of Arizona
- University of Nebraska-Lincoln
- University of Oklahoma
- SUNY, Albany
- Washington State University
A master’s degree in political science is a great option if you're passionate about politics, policy or international affairs and want to advance your career in government, advocacy, education or research. This degree can open doors to leadership roles in public service, policy analysis and nonprofit work while also preparing you for further academic study or teaching at the college level. If you're looking to deepen your understanding of political systems and make a meaningful impact, a master’s in political science is a smart investment.
Explore Global Politics in the Heart of the Rockies
At the University of Wyoming, you’ll join the School of Politics, Public Affairs and International Studies—one of the best places in the Rocky Mountains to study global issues, public policy and political systems. SPPAIS supports hands-on research, international exploration and a tight-knit, welcoming community in Laramie that’s dedicated to helping you succeed.
"The School of Politics, Public Affairs and International Studies has helped me find my true calling for environmental policy."
- Thao Nguyen, M.A. in Political Science and Environment and Natural resources, ’17 | Fulbright-funded student researcher in Indonesia
