Overview

The Political Science programme at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) is designed to provide students with the analytical tools necessary to understand the complex dynamics of modern societies and governments. This Master of Science degree focuses on developing advanced proficiency in applied research to address 21st-century political challenges.

Students in this programme engage in a rigorous academic environment that emphasises the evaluation and promotion of effective public policies. The curriculum is structured to support those aiming for professional careers in the public and private sectors, offering a deep dive into specific political disciplines.

Why Political Science at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)?

The department offers a unique opportunity to study within a world-renowned institution known for its analytical rigour and innovative research. Students benefit from a close-knit academic community and the ability to cross-register for subjects at Harvard University, expanding their intellectual resources.

The programme is specifically tailored for individuals seeking practical expertise in political analysis. With a focus on intensive preparation in a chosen field, graduates are well-equipped to enter competitive professional environments with a strong foundation in empirical research and policy design.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 32155 per semester
National fee: USD 32155 per semester
Local fee: USD 32155 per semester

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

To earn the degree, students must complete a minimum of six graduate subjects and a master's thesis. The curriculum allows for specialisation in various areas of political inquiry. Modules may include:

American Politics
Comparative Politics
International Relations
Models and Methods
Political Economy
Security Studies
Master's Thesis

Careers with Political Science

Graduates of the programme are prepared for successful professional trajectories in diverse fields. The training in applied research and policy evaluation is particularly relevant for roles in government agencies, international organisations, and private sector consultancy.

The department provides resources to help students transition into the workforce, focusing on positions that require sophisticated data interpretation and political strategy. Many alumni pursue careers as policy analysts, legislative aides, or researchers within global business and non-governmental sectors.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Feminist Thought

The American Political Economy in Comparative Perspective

Political Economy of Institutions and Development

Sustainability: Political Economy, Science and Policy

American Political Institutions

American Political Behavior

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-08 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-12-15 00:00:00

Language

English

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Credits

30 alternative credits

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Cambridge, United States

Disciplines

Political Science View 288 other Masters in Political Science in United States

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

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Other requirements

General requirements

In your Statement of Objectives, please be sure to discuss the research questions you would like to pursue in your graduate studies

All applicants are required to scan and upload official transcripts with their applications

Letters of Recommendation

All applicants whose first language is not English are required to take the TOEFL, including students who have received degrees from English speaking institutions

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

64310 USD / year

≈ 64310 USD / year
Out-of-State

64310 USD / year

≈ 64310 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

64310 USD / year

≈ 64310 USD / year

Living costs

Cambridge

United States

1814 - 3756 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Financing

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Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Political Science.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

On this page

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Cambridge

Financing

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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