Graduate Programs

Our Programs

The Political Science Department at Colorado State University offers graduate programs for a Master of Arts (M.A.) and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) as well as a graduate certificate in political economy.

The department has an internationally renowned specialization which brings in M.A. and Ph.D. candidates from diverse backgrounds who share an interest in the political dimensions of environmental protection. This specialization is the emphasis of the Ph.D. program, while M.A. students may select environmental politics and policy as one of their two sub-field areas of study.

Master of Arts (M.A.)
Doctorate (Ph.D.)
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Grad Student Spotlight

Gabriella Gricius

Why CSU?

CSU was appealing to me because of the environmental focus within the Political Science department. The community is also small, supportive, and Fort Collins seemed like a great place to live.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a new POLS grad student?

I would recommend reaching out to people and scheduling coffees to get to know other people. It can be intimidating to talk to people at larger events so talking to other students and faculty one-on-one over makes the process easier.

What are your goals after graduation?

I plan on entering academia and being a professor!

What is your favorite local spot in Fort Collins?

I’m a big fan of Rainbow Café (burritos for students are only $6) and Uno Mas Taqueria.

 

Check out two of Gabriella's articles:

The European Union’s ‘never again’ Arctic narrative

Pulling back the curtain: coloniality-based narratives of wilderness in US Arctic policy

Erin Fitz

Why CSU?

CSU is a great fit for me personally and professionally. The university, faculty, and department align with my interests and Fort Collins is an excellent place to live.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a new POLS grad student?

You don't need to have it all figure out, but know that you're time here will go by quickly. Make connections in and outside of class, take advantage of university/department workshops, events, and resources, and maximize your coursework so that you'll already have some of the ground work done when its time to start thinking about bigger research projects.

What are your goals after graduation?

Plan A is to stay in academia to continue research and teaching. Plan B is to land an industry job using my research and methodological expertise.

What is your favorite local spot in Fort Collins?

Hiking Horsetooth Falls Loop Trail, the pie and patio at Ginger and Baker, coffee at Wolverine Farm (and maybe some art at Scrimshaw Tattoo).

Graduate Resources

The Graduate School digital handbook can be used throughout your student journey. Bookmark the page to quickly access essential academic, professional, and wellbeing resources, as well as important information about graduate student responsibilities. Prospective students are encouraged to review the Graduate Handbook before reaching out to the Graduate Coordinator with questions.

Current students may access the Political Science SharePoint to access important department dates and documents.

Graduate School Handbook
Graduate Sharepoint
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World of Opportunities

All graduate programs are individually designed to fit the student’s educational background and career objectives. Graduates with the M.A. are recruited by a wide variety of local, state, federal, and non-governmental agencies as well as the private sector. Recipients of the Ph.D. are employed in research organizations, universities and public service positions.

Graduate teaching assistantships are available on a competitive basis.

For additional information or to set up a virtual appointment, please contact Graduate Coordinator, Professor Julia Lee.