Applying to the MA Program

Those interested in joining the program can find current deadlines and application instructions on the Cal State Apply website. The program accepts students for both spring and fall semesters.

Be aware, in addition to the admission application(s), all supporting academic documents (and if applicable, English Language Proficiency Exam scores) must be submitted to the Office of Admissions and Recruitment within 2-3 weeks of Cal State Apply application submission. Please plan ahead.

For questions about the status of your application, please contact the Cal State LA Office of Admissions and Recruitment: (323) 343-3901.

The current cost of attendance can be found on the page of the Cal State LA Financial Aid Office: (323) 343-6260.

The department welcomes applications from students with degrees from outside of the United States. See our basic guidelines for international applicants. For further information, visit the Cal State Los Angeles International Office. 

MA Program Application Requirements

• Major in political science and maintain a grade point average in the last 60 semester (90 quarter) units of 2.50 or better.  Admission is competitive, and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee acceptance into the program. Majors in a discipline other than political science may be accepted on a conditional basis. They must first complete three out of the four following conditional prerequisite courses from the undergraduate major: POLS 3710, 3720, 3730, and 3740 (minimum of three courses with earned GPA of 3.3 or above). Students will not receive graduate credit for prerequisite courses.
   
• Two letters of recommendation. At least one letter must come from a professor or an individual capable of evaluating the applicant’s intellectual and academic qualifications.
   
• Statement of purpose. The applicant must write a statement describing their purpose in applying for graduate study. The statement should include the particular area of specialization or interest (American politics, global politics, or political theory), any special research interests, plans for future occupation or profession, and any additional information that may aid the selection committee in evaluating the applicant’s preparation and aptitude for graduate study. The essay should be specific, well-organized, and well-written. The statement of purpose is considered an integral element of the application.
   
• Recommended: A writing sample.