Department of Political Science

Trauth Huffman Hall 355A
T: 512. 245.2143 F: 512. 245.7815
www.polisci.txstate.edu

The Department of Political Science, as a part of the College of Liberal Arts is dedicated to promoting student learning about fundamental theory and key concepts relevant to political science and public administration and encouraging student learning relative to the development of strong analytical skills, effective oral and written communication skills, and rigorous critical thinking skills. Throughout the course of their study, students are invited to reflect not simply on their career goals but also on what type of persons they want to become, and on their rights and duties as citizens.

The department offers master’s degree programs in political science, public administration, and legal studies, including a paralegal studies certificate. The Master of Arts in Political Science provides an exceptional graduate experience to students interested in pursuing careers in state and federal government, post-secondary teaching, non-governmental organizations, international business, or the further pursuit of a Juris Doctor or PhD program. The M.A. major in Legal Studies provides students interested in law at a graduate level with an understanding of the American legal system, legal theories, legal analysis, legal research and legal writing. The program is ABA-approved and offers career enhancement in law-related fields and helps meet the evolving needs of the legal and business communities and federal and state government entities. It is offered concurrently with the Paralegal Studies Certificate, which is also an ABA-approved paralegal training program. These programs do not qualify graduates to practice law. Legal assistants or paralegals must work under the supervision of a licensed attorney.

In partnership with the Texas City and County Management Association, the Master of Public Administration program offers the manager-in-residence program whereby a city manager offers mentorship to students interested in careers as public administrators. The student chapter of the International City and County Management Association gives students the opportunity to network with public service professionals. Students also get practical experience through internships with local, state and nonprofit organizations.

The department also houses the William P. Hobby Center for Public Service, the Center for Research, Public Policy, and Training (CRPPT), the Armed Forces and Society Journal, the Journal of Critical Infrastructure Policy, and the Good Governance Worldwide Journal.

Texas Certified Public Manager (CPM) Program

Please see the ‘Texas Certified Public Manager Program’ section of this catalog.

Master of Arts (M.A.)

Master of Public Administration (M.P.A.)

Minors

Certificates

  • Paralegal Studies (requires concurrent enrollment in the Master of Arts degree with a major in Legal Studies Program at Texas State University)

Levy, David Adrian, Asst Professor of Instruction, Political Science, L.L.M., Georgetown University