Master of Liberal Studies (Political Science)
Hours: 31 Online
About
The Master of Liberal Studies (Political Science) at Fort Hays State University offers an exploration of political phenomena, including comparative politics, American politics, democratic theory, and political economy. Students gain a global perspective by analyzing political systems worldwide, studying political campaigns and foreign policy, and examining public opinion and social movements.
With a focus on political psychology, development, and key political phenomena, the program provides a strong foundation for understanding the complexities of American politics and democratic theory.
Why pursue a Master of Liberal Studies (Political Science) at Fort Hays State University?
The Master of Liberal Studies (Political Science) program offers flexibility beyond a fixed course sequence. Students can choose from a wide range of electives across diverse fields such as criminal justice, leadership studies, health, marketing, and informatics, allowing them to tailor their studies to their interests and career goals.
Who is this program for?
With its broad scope and diverse curriculum, this program appeals to a wide range of individuals eager to explore the complexities of political phenomena. The individuals who will benefit from the program the most are:
- Aspiring political analysts
- Professionals working in the government
- Individuals seeking a leadership role
- Researchers and academics
- Advocates and activists
- Prospective policymakers
Real-World Applications
The curriculum extends beyond abstract concepts, emphasizing practical experiences and real-world scenarios. Offering a diverse range of comprehensive courses, from political theory to international relations, students develop a thorough understanding of political development and its outcomes. The program delivers deep insights into the complexities of governance across borders. Additionally, courses in collective action and comparative politics cultivate critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. Students have an opportunity to explore multiple dimensions of democracy, government, and media.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
By combining core courses with specialized electives, Fort Hays State University prepares students to navigate the challenges and opportunities they will encounter. Graduates emerge as well-informed individuals equipped to make a meaningful impact. The curriculum emphasizes practical applications alongside theoretical frameworks; for example, the public budgeting course moves beyond conventional approaches to examine innovative, experimental decision-making methods.
Hands-on Activities
A key hands-on element of the Master of Liberal Studies (Political Science) program is the research methodology coursework, which provides students with an in-depth understanding of the complexities involved in data collection and analysis. This intensive component equips students with valuable skills in organizing data clearly and transparently. Developing advanced data analysis abilities is a central focus of the program, preparing students for academic success and practical application in a wide range of professional fields.
What You’ll Learn:
- Understand international governance complexities
- Gain a solid foundation in US politics
- Analyze public opinion and social movements
- Apply skills in academics and various careers
- Collect and analyze information, present findings transparently
How You’ll Learn:
- Emphasis on practical scenarios and experiences
- Choose electives across criminal justice, leadership, health, marketing, and informatics
- Apply concepts through public budgeting, data analysis, and research methodology
- Analyze global politics, collective action, and solve complex issues
- Explore democracy, government, and media
Core courses focus on essential topics like civil liberties, constitutional law, and bureaucratic decision-making, laying a solid foundation for understanding the legal framework and institutional dynamics that shape political landscapes.
Beyond these foundations, students have an opportunity to explore a range of elective courses aligned with their interests and career goals. Topics span from global challenges and international organizations to civic leadership, ethical leadership, and organizational communication
IDS 802: Ways of Knowing in Comparative Perspective
A comparative, critical exploration of the nature, kinds, worth, and limits of human knowledge. Roughly equal amounts of attention are given to (A) the sciences, (B) the arts and humanities, and (C) a selection from a menu of such special topics as mathematical knowledge, epistemic relativism, moral knowledge, religious knowledge, and the role of the search for knowledge in well-lived human lives.
POLS 612G: The Administrative Process
This course is an examination of the legal and political implementation procedures in administrative agencies.
POLS 664G: Political Behavior
This class will investigate the development of political science research into voting and other forms of political participation in American politics. Students will learn the two predominant forms of research into voting behavior: survey research and economic models, and the differing perspectives on voting turnout, partisanship, and individual vote decisions that they predict.
Discover the full Master of Liberal Studies (Political Science) course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.
Graduates enjoy a broad range of career opportunities in government, nonprofit organizations, research, education, and various private-sector industries. The knowledge and skills acquired through the program are highly regarded by employers across diverse fields.
Political Analyst
Political analysts analyze political trends, policies, and events to provide insights to government agencies, media outlets, or think tanks. Their role may involve researching and interpreting data to inform decision-making processes and public discourse on political matters.
Policy Advisor
Policy advisors guide policymakers on various issues, such as healthcare, education, and environmental regulations. Their responsibilities include researching policy options, evaluating their implications, and recommending courses of action based on their political science and governance expertise.
Diplomat/Foreign Service Officer
Service officers represent our country's interests abroad, negotiate agreements, and engage in diplomatic relations. The position consists of advocating for national positions on international issues and fostering cooperation with foreign governments and organizations.
Community Organizer
Graduates can make a tangible impact at the grassroots level as a community organizer. The primary responsibilities include mobilizing communities around social issues, coordinating grassroots campaigns, and empowering marginalized groups to advocate for change. They work closely with local stakeholders to address community concerns and drive positive social outcomes.
Research Analyst
A researcher's tasks include conducting empirical research on political phenomena, collecting and analyzing data, and presenting findings to inform academic discourse and policy debates. The role contributes to advancing knowledge in political science and informing evidence-based decision-making.
Fort Hays State University values the unique strengths and diverse backgrounds that each applicant brings to the Master of Liberal Studies (Political Science) program. Emphasizing ambition, dedication, and a sincere commitment to making a positive impact, FHSU places these qualities above specific academic credentials. To be considered for admission, applicants must meet the following eligibility criteria:
Academic Performance
Applicants must demonstrate academic preparedness by maintaining a minimum GPA of 3.0 in their most recent 60 undergraduate credit hours. This ensures a solid foundation for success in the program's challenging curriculum.
Personal Statement
Applicants are required to submit a compelling 1–2-page personal statement outlining their career aspirations and objectives for graduate study. The essay should reflect a genuine enthusiasm for political science and highlight specific experiences that have shaped and reinforced their interest in pursuing a career in political management.
Letters of Recommendation
Applicants must submit two letters of recommendation that provide insight into their academic abilities and professional strengths. One letter should come from a former professor, academic advisor, or another individual familiar with the applicant’s academic background. The second should be from a professional mentor or someone who can speak to the applicant’s leadership qualities, work ethic, and potential for success in a graduate program.
The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere
Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $3,139.02* (online) per semester.
*Estimated cost based on 9 credit hours at the FHSU Online Graduate tuition rate ($348.78/credit hour) for online courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.
Ready for the next step?
Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.
Related Programs
Expanding academic horizons through related programs offers valuable interdisciplinary benefits. While the Master of Liberal Studies (Political Science) is valuable, Fort Hays State University provides many programs worth exploring. Related options include:
- B.A./B.S. in Political Science
- Minor in Political Science
- Master of Liberal Studies (Global Studies)
- Master of Liberal Studies (Political Leadership and Public Service)
- Master of Liberal Studies (Public Administration)
The program is set apart by its comprehensive curriculum that explores a wide range of political topics, including comparative politics, American politics, democratic theory, and political economy. It also offers flexibility by allowing students to select electives from diverse fields such as criminal justice, leadership, health, marketing, and informatics.
The program covers various aspects of political science through a broad and customizable curriculum. Additionally, FHSU emphasizes practical scenarios, diverse electives, and hands-on activities.
Yes, the program incorporates practical experiences and hands-on activities within the concentration. One notable hands-on experience is the intensive research methodology coursework, which enables students to understand the complexities of collecting and analyzing information.
Graduate-level courses typically demand higher critical thinking, independent research, and analytical skills. The expectations for depth of understanding and original contributions to the field are more significant at the graduate level.
Completing the program opens diverse career opportunities. Some potential career paths include a policy advisor, a community organizer, or a research analyst.
Information about the Department of Communication Studies, Law and Political Science
The Department of Communication Studies, Law and Political Science at FHSU offers a dynamic and engaging educational experience designed to prepare students for successful careers across diverse fields in communication, political science, and law. Whether students are passionate about storytelling, inspiring others through news or entertainment, or driving change through political insight, these programs provide the essential skills and knowledge to excel.
Emphasizing both theoretical learning and practical application, students have an opportunity to participate in hands-on experiences such as service-learning projects, internships, and involvement with the state-of-the-art Institute for New Media Studies. Dedicated faculty, bringing real-world expertise into the classroom, ensure students are well-prepared to navigate the complexities of their chosen career paths.
With small class sizes and personalized advising, students receive individualized attention throughout their academic journey. The programs are designed to enhance effective communication skills, cultural understanding, and proficiency with current media technologies. Whether pursuing careers in advertising, public relations, political management, or law, graduates are equipped to make a meaningful impact.
FHSU’s alumni network extends across a wide range of industries, providing valuable connections that support career advancement. Students at FHSU gain a solid education, practical experience, and confidence needed to become leaders in their chosen fields.
While earning a degree remains the primary focus, college life offers much more than classroom learning. Students are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities that foster leadership skills, deepen their understanding of their chosen careers, and provide opportunities to make a positive impact in their communities.
- Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA): This national organization is dedicated to serving its members by enhancing their education, expanding their professional networks, and supporting their career launch after graduation. The FHSU chapter has achieved remarkable success, earning awards and offering students valuable opportunities to apply their academic learning in practical settings. PRSSA is committed to developing ethically responsible pre-professionals who champion diversity and advocate for the public relations profession. Students interested in participating can connect with faculty and peers through a variety of events and networking opportunities.
- Student Government Association (SGA): SGA serves as the voice of the student body at Fort Hays State University, representing students' interests and concerns to the administration. Participation in SGA provides students with valuable leadership experience, an understanding of governance processes, and the opportunity to contribute to meaningful change on campus.
- College Republicans and Young Democrats: These organizations offer platforms for students to engage with political ideologies and activities aligned with their personal beliefs. Members participate in discussions, organize events, and connect with local and national political figures, providing a deeper understanding of the political landscape.
- Tigers in Service: This organization focuses on service and volunteerism, encouraging students to participate in community service projects that make a difference locally and beyond. Tigers in Service is an excellent opportunity for students to develop leadership skills, network with community leaders, and give back to society.
- Pi Sigma Alpha (Political Science Honor Society): Pi Sigma Alpha is the national honor society for Political Science students. Membership is based on high academic achievement in Political Science coursework. The FHSU chapter meets monthly for programming, discussions, service projects, and social activities. Members also enjoy recognition at graduation through honor symbols, signifying their academic excellence and commitment to the field.
- Political Science Club: Open to all students, the Political Science Club allows underclassmen and those not yet eligible for Pi Sigma Alpha to participate in similar activities without the honor status. The club meets concurrently with Pi Sigma Alpha, engaging in stimulating discussions, service projects, and social events. It’s a great way for students to get involved early in their academic careers.
- Pre-Law Society: The Pre-Law Society is open to all majors and offers insights into the legal profession. Members learn about law school, the application process, and the day-to-day life of lawyers and judges. The society organizes visits to law schools and courts, hosts guest speakers from the legal field, and engages in service projects. This organization is ideal for students considering a future in law, providing them with the knowledge and connections to succeed.
- Minor
- Bachelor's
- Master's
- On-Campus
- Online
