Finding and Choosing Programs
• Identify programs with relevant specializations (field or sub-field).
• Search online using key words.
• Speak with your advisor.
• Seek advice from faculty in relevant fields.
• Search websites for schools to see what their programs entail.
• Review web pages for particular programs or departments. Explore courses offered, faculty publications and interests, and other resources.
• An informative guide to the application process from UC Berkeley (link)
• ISU Career Services
• Upcoming event on Friday, Feb.3. ISU Graduate School Series: Admission Secrets (link).
Some Things to Consider
• Financial Support: In addition to financial assistance available for particular graduate programs, you may seek outside scholarships and fellowships. Example: ISU Graduate School Financial Assistance page (link)
• Opportunities for internships or other relevant work experience (as in the ACED program at ISU, which Dr. Hendricks can speak to).
• Program profile and reputation
• Career Opportunities
• Location
The Application Process
• Deadlines: Application deadlines vary substantially, but typically start in late Fall (end of October) and continue through early Spring (Dec.-March.) The Politics and Government MS program application deadline is March 1.
• Required Tests: GRE exam scores are required by some but not all schools. We currently do not require GRE scores.
• GRE website: (link)
• Transcripts: Request official transcripts be sent at least two weeks prior to application deadline.
• ISU Transcript request: (link)
• Personal Statement/Statement of Purpose: Introduce yourself in personal terms, identifying your motivations as well as your qualifications. Speak to your interest in the program, referencing specific sub-specializations and faculty expertise (note: some faculty may go on leave or retire, etc., so you may wish to reference more than one faculty member).
• Writing Sample: Choose something that best exemplifies your writing and research abilities, preferably an academic research essay in a relevant field. A 10-20pp. sample is appropriate, but you may submit a longer essay such as a senior thesis. Published work is of value only if relevant.
• Letters of Recommendation: The impact of a recommendation letter is greater if the writer identifies specific, exceptional aptitudes and/or if person reading them is acquainted with the recommender.
• Accepting an offer: Programs will specify deadlines for accepting offers of admission and/or financial support.
Graduate (MS) Program in Politics and Government, ISU
• Political Science MS Program and specialized sequences (link). Scroll down for information on the Graduate Program.