Ph.D. Program | MAIS Program | MPA Program | The Graduate School | Admission
Welcome to Graduate Studies Programs
in the Department of Political Science!
This is an exciting time in the Department of Political Science at the University of South Carolina. The department has hired several new faculty members in recent years, even in the difficult economic climate. As a consequence, senior scholars who have built national and international reputations at South Carolina have been joined by a strong group of highly visible junior faculty members.
Each year, the department seeks to admit a small group of the best applicants to our graduate programs. Students receive individualized attention and work closely with faculty members. Many of our students publish while in graduate school, often in co-authored collaborations with faculty. Many of our Ph.D. students receive multi-year funding packages. The department and university provide financial support for presentations at professional conferences. Most Ph.D. students also have the opportunity to gain valuable professional experience by teaching their own courses while in the department.
The department offers the Ph.D. in Political Science, an M.A. in International Studies, and an M.P.A. in Public Administration (information on the M.P.A. program can be found at the M.P.A. link on this website). Our Ph.D. program is designed to produce leading scholars in the discipline. Our M.A. in International Studies program is designed for students who are interested in a more professionally oriented program geared toward service in the governmental, non-profit, or private sectors, both domestic and international.
Students in the Doctoral program can choose to major or minor in American Politics, Comparative Politics, International Relations, Political Theory, Public Law (recently ranked as one of the top five programs in the nation), and Public Administration/Public Policy, and can minor in the field of Political Methodology. Students in the Master's in International Studies program choose to specialize in two of the following three fields: International Relations and Practice, Foreign Policy Analysis, and Comparative Politics.
The department provides a professional placement service for our Ph.D. students. The department’s placement service aids students with the academic job market, providing professional advice and opportunities for practice job talks. Our students have done well in the academic job market. Graduates of our department currently hold faculty positions at institutions including George Mason University, the University of Florida, the University of Georgia, Louisiana State University, Loyola University Chicago, Michigan State University, North Carolina State University, the University of North Texas, and the University of Texas. In addition, both faculty and the university career center aid students interested in non-academic employment.
The University of South Carolina is located in Columbia, the state capital of South Carolina. The Columbia metropolitan area is one of the most rapidly growing in the nation, with a population of over 740,000. Columbia offers a vibrant arts scene and a cosmopolitan restaurant and entertainment district within walking distance of the campus. A moderate climate makes sports and outdoor activities possible year round. Both mountains and beaches are easily accessible within a two-hour drive from Columbia.
Need more information?
Questions or additional inquiries regarding the graduate programs (MA and Ph.D.) within the Department of Political Science at the University of South Carolina can be directed to the Graduate Director, Dr. Lee Walker by email or phone (803-777-7389) or to the Program Assistant, Ms. Tamara Gordon by email or phone (803-777-3869).
Questions specific to the MPA program can be directed to the Director of MPA Studies, Dr. Mark Tompkins by email or phone (803-777-3109).
Apply Online
Interested applicants should apply online through the Graduate School's Graduate Application Portal.
*All biographies, curriculum vitae, and contact information for faculty can be found here.