• M.A. in Political Science
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M.A. PROGRAM IN POLITICAL SCIENCE

EUROPEAN UNION POLICY STUDIES concentration

James Madison University's Master of Arts program in Political Science with a concentration in European Union Policy Studies (EUPS) is a rigorous and exciting one-year graduate program. The program is unique among American M.A. programs, as it is based wholly in Florence, Italy.

The program develops students' policy analysis skills and provides them with a comprehensive understanding of the European Union (EU), the EU's role in contemporary global affairs, and the forces that move specific EU policy sectors. The program deepens students' grasp of the EU as a system of governance and an international actor; promotes understanding of the growing importance and expanding scope of the transatlantic partnership between the EU and the US; and provides advanced research skills for today's competitive, global labor market.

The program is cross-disciplinary and innovative in design. Students specialize in one of two policy foci: economic and social policy or foreign policy and internal security. Coursework consists of lectures and seminars, academic visits to EU institutions, and supplemental guest lectures and projects. The program culminates in an applied internship experience or a fully articulated research project.

EUPS alumni work in positions that demand broad intercultural competence, advanced policy analytic skills, practical knowledge of the EU, and mastery of fast-moving economic and political developments in the EU and the wider world. Students are trained for productive careers in government and politics (including diplomatic service), international business, international organizations, non-governmental organizations, and global media outlets. The program also prepares students for further graduate study in political science, for related law degress, and for teaching and research on politics and public policy.