To be admitted to the Master's Degree program in Political Science, a student should have at least a 3.0 grade point average for the last 60 hours of undergraduate work (where "A" = 4.0). Also, one must have successfully completed at least 15 hours of Social Science, with a minimum 3.0 GPA.
Applicants are required to submit GRE scores in the verbal, quantitative, and writing areas. Although the Department does not require a minimum GRE for admission, it is recommended that students should have at least 500 points in verbal and 500 in quantitative scores, or equivalent.
Students should also present a statement of purpose indicating how the program fits their academic and professional plans; three letters of recommendation, especially from academic sources; and a writing sample, preferably a graded paper from a Political Science upper-level undergraduate class. The statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, and writing sample should be sent to the attention of the Graduate Director at the Department of Politics and Government.
If space is available, students whose undergraduate grades fall somewhat below this standard may be admitted on probation. Students who lack adequate background in Political Science may be required to take additional courses to remedy deficiencies. These courses may not count toward the required 32 hours for graduation.
Admission Application Deadlines:
Fall: March 15th
Spring: October 15th
To the Graduate School: Address: Campus Box 4040, Normal, IL 61790-4040
To the Department: Address: Campus Box 4600, Normal, IL 61790-4600
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