Combined BA/MA in Political Science

Program Overview

Villanova University's combined BA/MA in Political Science offers an accelerated path to a master's degree, allowing students to complete both degrees in five years at a reduced cost. The program provides a comprehensive foundation in political science, preparing students for advanced research and careers in the public, nonprofit, and academic sectors. Students take graduate-level courses during their senior year and complete the remaining graduate coursework in their fifth year.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

• Overview:
The combined BA/MA program in Political Science at Villanova University allows undergraduate students to earn a master's degree in half the time and at half the price of a regular MA degree.
• Objectives:
The program aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of political science and prepare them for advanced research and professional careers in the field.
• Description:
Students in the program complete four foundational courses (American Government, International Relations, Comparative Politics, Political Theory) and at least two focal or specialized courses in political science during their undergraduate studies. In their senior year, they take three political science graduate courses along with their remaining undergraduate courses. These three graduate courses are applied to both the BA and MA degrees. In their fifth year, they complete the remaining seven graduate courses, typically taking one course over the summer and three courses each during the fall and spring semesters.

Careers:

• The program prepares students for entry-level positions in the public and nonprofit sector, as well as for competitive PhD programs in political science.