Political Science

When you join Lehigh’s political science program, you join a dynamic community of independent researchers, innovators, and change-makers who are committed to developing innovative solutions to intricate policy problems. Here, you can unleash your political prowess, shape policy agendas, and start transforming the world. 

Choose Your Pathway

Both of our master's programs are streamlined, high-yield tracks that are typically completed in 2 years, but you can complete the program in less time with careful academic planning. (30 credit hours)

M.A. in Political Science

• Built on a rigorous theoretical framework, this degree deepens your understanding of institutional power, global relations, and political behavior.
• Ideal for students who plan to continue their academic careers in top-tier doctoral programs or enroll in law school.

Master of Public Policy (M.P.P.)

• A distinctive, skills-based program focused on advanced analytical methods. You will gain hands-on mastery in:
  • Qualitative and quantitative data analysis.
  • Professional grant writing and fundraising strategy.
  • Navigating and managing complex, multi-layered policy environments.
• Designed for immediate, high-impact insertion into leadership roles within government agencies, think tanks, and NGOs.

Students in both programs may also choose to participate in a Community Fellowship, which combines rigorous academic training with a hands-on, community-based internship in a local agency.

Graduate Certificate in Interdisciplinary Policy Studies

• Equips students with foundational knowledge in policy processes and evaluation, with a focus on critical analysis of health, education, and public policy. 
• Ideal for students who are interested in applying policy knowledge across multiple disciplines in practical, real-world settings.
• Learn more about the curriculum and how to apply.

Program Specific Admissions Requirements

• Submit a CAS graduate application with supporting materials
• Admission is on a rolling basis, but you must submit your application by March 1 to receive priority consideration for funding.