Applied Politics, MAP

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Program Details

Location
Akron Campus
Level
graduate
Academic Pathway
major
Degree/Program Type
MAP Master of Applied Politics
Format
In-person
Course Info
Master of Applied Politics, MAP
College
Buchtel College of Arts & Sciences (BCAS)
School/Department
Department of Political Science

Program Contact

Dr. David B. Cohen

Professor of Political Science; Director, Applied Politics Program; Fellow, Ray C. Bliss Institute of Applied Politics

330-972-6045 Send an Email

Overview

In cooperation with the Ray C. Bliss Institute of Applied Politics and The University of Akron Political Science Department, the Master of Applied Politics degree is one of only a handful of graduate programs in the United States focusing on practical politics and experiential learning. The MAP program is designed for students interested in election campaigns, digital strategy and messaging, fundraising, managing organizations, and other political activities. All applied politics classes are delivered synchronously online making residency in Northeast Ohio optional. 
 

Admissions Requirements

  • Students must fulfill the admission requirements of the UA Graduate School (no specific undergraduate major is required) 

  • Students must submit two letters of recommendation, a statement of personal goals, a resume, and official transcripts from all universities attended 

  • International students must submit official scores from the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) 

  • Admission decisions are made on a rolling basis throughout the calendar year 

Assistantship Opportunities 

A limited number of assistantships are available. Graduate assistants work 20 hours each week as a teaching assistant in undergraduate classes. Assistantships are competitive and the deadline is in early Spring Semester. 

 To apply for an assistantship, please email a letter detailing your interest and qualifications to the Director of Applied Politics at bliss@uakron.edu (limit 1 single-spaced page). 

Career Outcomes

Graduates with a Master of Applied Politics are equipped for a variety of careers, including:

  •  Campaign Management & Communications 

  • Candidate for Office/Elected Office Holder 

  • Community Organizing 

  • Digital Strategy 

  • Fundraising 

  • Government Relations & Lobbying 

  • Nonprofit Management 

  • Party/Group Leadership 

  • Policy Analysis 

  • Political Consulting 

YES, some things just set us apart.

Our program gives students real chances to work on real political issues—not just study them in a classroom. They connect students with hands-on experience, mentorship, and professional networks that help turn a political science degree into a career.

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Career Connections

Experiential Learning

Connect to internships in court, law, government, campaigns, and non-profits through our national placement network.

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Real-World Learning

Ray C. Bliss Institute of Applied Politics

Gain hands-on experience in campaigns, advocacy, and civic engagement through a nationally recognized bipartisan institute.

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