Political Science

Influence for Good

Program Description

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. 

M.A. in Politics and Policy:

In the M.A. program, students earn a traditional degree with a theoretical framework. Students can complete the program in a single calendar year (30 credit hours) and often choose to continue their academic careers in doctoral programs or enroll in law school. 

Master of Public Policy:

The M.P.P. is a distinctive program that focuses on analytic methods and trains students to successfully develop creative solutions to intricate policy problems. The program can be completed in a single calendar year (30 credit hours) and allows students to gain skills in:

  • qualitative and quantitative analysis,
  • grant writing,
  • and the analysis of complex policy environments.

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.

How to Apply
  • Please review application requirements and submission instructions here
  • To fulfill the application requirements for the political science program, please submit a total of 3 letters of recommendation. 
  • Admission is on a rolling basis. Students are encouraged to submit their applications as early as possible to be considered for funding opportunities and in order to complete the enrollment process at least 60 days before the start of the academic semester. This is particularly important for international students who reside outside of the United States and need to allow for sufficient visa processing times.

Contact Us

For admissions and general information, please contact the graduate programs office at incasgrd@lehigh.edu.

Department website