Political Science

The Bachelor of Arts in Political Science at Columbia University offers students a comprehensive and rigorous exploration of political systems, theories, and institutions across the globe. This program is designed to provide a deep understanding of the political landscape, combining empirical research methods with theoretical analysis to prepare students for careers in government, international organizations, journalism, policy analysis, and further academic pursuits. Students have the opportunity to engage with various subfields, including American politics, comparative politics, international relations, political theory, and public policy, allowing for a well-rounded and interdisciplinary approach to the study of politics. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, analytical skills, and effective communication, equipping graduates to interpret complex political issues and contribute meaningfully to public discourse. Columbia’s distinguished faculty, renowned for their research and expertise, guide students through interactive seminars, research projects, and internship opportunities, fostering a vibrant academic community. The program encourages original research and debate, preparing students to navigate and influence the dynamic political environment of the 21st century. With its location in New York City, students have unparalleled access to political institutions, international organizations, and diverse cultural experiences that enrich their educational journey. The Bachelor of Arts in Political Science at Columbia University not only aims to develop knowledgeable and articulate individuals but also dedicated citizens equipped to address pressing global challenges through informed and ethical leadership.

Course Requirements

Students in the M.A. program must complete (within one academic year) a minimum of eight graduate-level political science courses for a total of at least 30 points, including:

• two colloquia or seminars (8000- or 9000-level courses) offered by the Department of Political Science, or, with prior approval of the Director of the M.A. program, advanced graduate courses that include the requirement of writing a paper;
• three additional courses offered by the Department of Political Science, normally in one of the four subfields of political science (i.e., American politics, comparative politics, international relations, and political theory);
• three additional courses offered by the Department of Political Science or, with prior approval of the Director of the M.A. program, courses offered by another department that relate closely to political science.

One of the two sets of courses in the non-colloquium section of the requirement must be completed with an average grade of B+ or better. The other set of courses in the non-colloquium section of the requirement may include up to two courses completed for R credit; however, courses offered in fulfillment of the research tools requirement must be completed for examination credit.

Research Tool Requirements

For the M.A. degree, students must demonstrate command of one research tool selected from the following list:

• a reading knowledge of a foreign language, demonstrated by successfully passing the proficiency exam offered by the relevant language department, or by placing out of the fourth year on the placement exam offered in those departments that do not offer a proficiency exam (for example, the Department of East Asian Languages and Cultures). Native speakers of a language other than English may offer their native language in satisfaction of this requirement;
• an approved two-course sequence in quantitative analysis with an average grade of B or better;
• an approved two-course sequence in formal modeling with an average grade of B or better;
• one course in qualitative methodology in combination with any one of the above quantitative or formal modeling courses with an average grade of B or better;
• a comparable level of proficiency in a comparable research tool, approved in writing by the M.A. Program Director upon recommendation of the student’s adviser.
• Courses taken to fulfill the research tool requirement can count toward the 8 courses for the degree.

Two-course sequences that fulfill the Research Tool requirement are:

Quantitative analysis:

• POLS GU4710 and GU4712
• POLS GU4710 and GU4714
• POLS GU4710 and GU4730
• POLS GU4714 and GU4790
• POLS GU4764 and any above 4000-level quantitative courses
• POLS GU4768 and any above 4000-level quantitative courses

Formal modeling:

• POLS GU4700 and GU4730
• POLS GU4730 and GU4732

Qualitative methodology:

• POLS GU4702 (Methods of Inquiry and Research Design)
• POLS GR4780 (Qualitative & Interpretative Methods in Political Science)
• SOC GR6091 (Historical Method & Documentary Analysis)
• Or an alternative approved by the DGS

Languages used to fulfill the requirement are to be chosen in consultation with the adviser from among those encompassing a significant literature in political science, including Arabic, Chinese, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Russian, and Spanish. Certain other languages necessary for the student’s research interests may, upon approval by the student’s adviser and the M.A. Program Director, be offered as a foreign language. English may not be offered as a foreign language.

Requirements

• All students must submit one transcript showing courses and grades per school attended, a Statement of Academic Purpose and three letters of recommendation from academic sources. All international students whose native language is not English or whose undergraduate degree is from an institution in a country whose official language is not English must submit scores of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or IELTS.
• Resume 
• Writing Sample(15-20 pages)
• GRE 

The financing of the Political Science program at Columbia University is primarily supported through a combination of institutional funding, scholarships, fellowships, and external grants. Columbia University offers a variety of merit-based and need-based financial aid options to assist students in covering tuition, fees, and associated expenses. Graduate students enrolled in the program can apply for research fellowships such as the Presidential Scholars in International Studies, which provide full or partial funding to promote academic and professional development. Additionally, teaching assistantships and research assistantships are available, offering stipends and tuition remission in exchange for assisting faculty with research projects or instructional duties. These positions not only help offset educational costs but also provide valuable professional experience.

The university also encourages students to seek external funding sources such as government grants, private foundations, and international organizations. Many students benefit from fellowships offered by the American Political Science Association and other scholarly societies, which are aimed at supporting research activities, conference travel, and academic publications. Columbia University’s financial aid office provides comprehensive guidance on applying for these opportunities, ensuring students can maximize their funding potential.

Furthermore, Columbia’s financial aid policies prioritize accessibility, ensuring that students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds can pursue a Political Science degree. The university’s need-based financial aid programs consider the student’s financial situation holistically, often combining grants, work-study, and loans to create a manageable funding plan. For international students, there are also specialized scholarships and funding options, although the availability may be more limited compared to domestic students.

Overall, the program’s financing structure emphasizes a blend of internal university support, external funding opportunities, and work-study arrangements. This multi-faceted approach aims to reduce the financial burden of higher education, enabling students to focus fully on their academic and research pursuits within the Political Science discipline at Columbia University.

The Political Science program at Columbia University offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to provide students with a thorough understanding of political systems, theories, and institutions. The program is structured to develop analytical and research skills necessary for a variety of careers in government, policy analysis, international organizations, academia, and related fields. Students have access to a diverse faculty renowned for their expertise in areas such as American politics, comparative politics, international relations, political theory, and public policy. The curriculum includes foundational courses in political science methods and core topics, as well as specialized electives that allow students to focus on regions, themes, or issues of particular interest.

Columbia’s location in New York City provides students with unique opportunities for internships and engagement with global political institutions, non-governmental organizations, and cultural institutions. The program emphasizes critical thinking, quantitative and qualitative research skills, and clear communication. Many students participate in research projects, seminars, and conferences, often publishing their work or presenting at academic gatherings. The department encourages interdisciplinary approaches, integrating insights from economics, history, sociology, and law to enrich students’ understanding of complex political phenomena.

Students pursuing a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science typically complete a combination of core courses and electives, with options to undertake honors research or participate in special programs such as the BA/MA track, which allows talented undergraduates to begin graduate coursework early. The program also offers opportunities for study abroad, internships, and a senior thesis project. Post-graduation, alumni of the program have gone on to successful careers in government service, international agencies, journalism, law, and academia. The department provides advising and career services to support students throughout their academic journey and as they transition to professional fields or graduate studies. Overall, Columbia’s Political Science program is distinguished by its academic rigor, vibrant intellectual community, and its strategic location in one of the world’s most influential cities.