Area(s) of Specialization (will appear on all ISU transcripts after graduation): Public Policy (M.A.);
Area(s) of Emphasis (for program use only): American Politics; Global Politics; Public Policy
Learning Goals that students in this program are expected to meet include:
Demonstrate comprehensive understanding of scholarly literature in political science or public policy. (Thesis Students) OR Demonstrate the ability to apply the scholarly literature in political science and public policy to practical issues in the public sector. (Creative Component Students)
Form testable hypotheses and articulate research objectives that, when met, will lead to significant contributions to the field of study. (Thesis Students) OR Demonstrate understanding of the difficulties and complexities of implementing public policy in practice.
Conduct qualitative and/or quantitative research via appropriate acquisition, analysis, and reporting of data. (Thesis Students)
Interpret research results appropriately, integrating them into the existing knowledge in the discipline of political science or public policy.
Clearly and accurately communicate research findings orally and in writing, and often through the use images (tables, figures, and other forms of imagery) and electronic or other forms of media.
Articulate how the graduate program, including coursework and creative scholarship, fits into life and career goals.
Conduct scholarship, in teams or with independence, in ways that consistently demonstrate ethical practice and professionalism.
May 2025
College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
202 Catt Hall,
2224 Osborn Dr,
AMES,
Iowa,
50011, United States
August 2025
College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
202 Catt Hall,
2224 Osborn Dr,
AMES,
Iowa,
50011, United States
Iowa State requires a bachelor’s or higher degree from a regionally-accredited college or university prior to beginning graduate studies.
International degrees must be comparable to a US bachelor’s degree or higher from a college or university regionally accredited/recognized by the Ministry of Education in that country.
A minimum cumulative grade point average equivalent to at least a 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (B grade) is required for admission.
The minimum scores accepted by the Graduate College are:
Internet Based TOEFL (iBT): 85
TOEFL Paper (PBT): 563
IELTS: 6.5
Pearson Test of English (PTE): 57
Duo Lingo English Test: 105
Application Deadlines: Fall semester/financial aid: March 1; Fall semester/no aid: May 1; Summer semester: March 1; Spring semester: October 1
*There may be different IELTS requirements depending on your chosen course.