| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-03-15 | - |
| 2024-10-15 | - |
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.
Villanova College Summary
Overview:
Villanova University is a private Augustinian Catholic university located in Pennsylvania. It is known for its personalized learning environment, where teachers and students collaborate in scholarly inquiry. The university emphasizes intellectual inspiration, moral grounding, and global perspectives, aiming to cultivate world changers who ignite positive change.
Services Offered:
Villanova offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
Bachelor's:
Over 60 programs in liberal arts, business, engineering, nursing, and sciences.Master's:
Over 40 programs across various disciplines, including 5-year bachelor's/master's programs.Doctoral:
Distinctive programs in engineering, nursing, philosophy, and theology.Law:
JD and joint degrees offered in coordination with other schools and departments.Online:
Degree and certificate programs offered online, in-person, or hybrid depending on individual learning needs.Certificate:
A variety of undergraduate, post-baccalaureate, and graduate certificates, as well as non-credit professional programs.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Villanova provides a closely connected academic community with renowned faculty, rich resources, and a supportive learning environment. Students have access to exceptional opportunities for academic experiences, including hands-on research, interdisciplinary collaboration, and experiential learning.
The university also boasts a strong athletic tradition, with student-athletes excelling both academically and athletically. Villanova Athletics fosters a sense of community and pride within the "Nova Nation."
Key Reasons to Study There:
Personalized Learning:
Villanova emphasizes a close-knit community where teachers and students work together.Academic Excellence:
The university offers a wide range of programs with renowned faculty and resources.Global Perspective:
Villanova encourages students to develop a global mindset and engage in international experiences.Strong Athletics:
The university has a rich athletic tradition with a focus on academic and athletic success.Supportive Environment:
Villanova provides a supportive and inclusive environment for students to thrive.Academic Programs:
Villanova offers a diverse range of academic programs across various disciplines, including:
Liberal Arts:
A strong foundation in humanities, social sciences, and the arts.Business:
Programs in areas like finance, marketing, and management.Engineering:
Programs in fields like chemical, civil, electrical, and mechanical engineering.Nursing:
Programs leading to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degrees.Sciences:
Programs in biology, chemistry, physics, and other scientific disciplines.Other:
- Villanova University is located on a 260-acre campus, 12 miles west of Philadelphia.
- The campus is conveniently located near major cities like Philadelphia, New York, and Washington, D.C.
- The university has a strong commitment to social justice and community engagement.
- Villanova has a high undergraduate placement rate of 98.9%.
- The university has a 98% NCAA graduation success rate.
- Villanova has been recognized by Forbes as a top college that dominates academically and athletically.
Entry Requirements:
Students interested in applying for the BA/MA must meet the following requirements: Cumulative GPA of at least 3.3 GPA of at least 3.3. in the major Completion of four foundational courses: American Government (PSC 1100) International Relations (PSC 1200) Comparative Politics (PSC 1300) Political Theory (PSC 1400) Completion of at least two focal and/or specialized courses Interested students who meet the requirements may apply for one of a limited number of spaces by submitting a personal statement, Villanova transcript, resume, and three academic letters of recommendation to Fathe Allen.
