Our Programs

Providing the necessary tools for success in the challenging and evolving public service landscape is the backbone of The Truman School. We focus on several research cores on the cutting edge of political science and public policy research, including race and ethnic politics, voting behavior, political movements, civil wars, American political institutions, and conflict management.  

Coursework consists of intensive study of concepts and research, close interaction with faculty, and individual attention to student progress. Advised by graduate faculty, students at MU are encouraged to become active scholars capable of conducting independent analysis and research of political and social phenomena. 

The Truman School maintains a commitment to student success and a high retention rate and graduation.

 

Undergraduate Programs

Bachelor of Arts in Political Science

  • Emphasis on communication skills
  • Education in the analysis of complicated issues like American Politics/Public Policy, Comparative Government, International Affairs, and Political Theory/Methodology
  • Curriculum based in interdisciplinary learning
  • Students may choose to pursue a Pre-Law Emphasis within the Bachelor of Arts in Political Science

Bachelor of Arts in Public Administration and Policy

  • Interdisciplinary curriculum melding the study of public administration, public policy, and communication
  • Strong emphasis on communication skills
  • Unique collaboration with MU Department of Communication
  • Offered on campus and fully online

Undergraduate Minors

  • Defense and Strategic Studies Minor
  • Canadian Studies Minor
  • Political Science Minor

 

Graduate Programs

MA in Defense and Strategic Studies

  • Centered on understanding political and military strategy
  • Focused on the topics of military power and effectiveness, intelligence, diplomacy, and deterrence
  • Offered entirely online

Master of Public Affairs

  • Comprehensive training in public management and policy analysis
  • Two-year program with strong emphasis in experiential learning
  • Nationally accredited and highly ranked
  • Strong alumni and professional network
  • Offered both on campus and 100% online

Ph.D. in Public Affairs

  • Strong focus on interdisciplinary learning
  • Close work with faculty through research assistantships and the dissertation process
  • Doctoral students are funded through a mix of research and teaching assistantships, grants, fellowships, and scholarships.

Ph.D. in Political Science

Doctoral students identify a primary and a secondary field among four areas of study offered in Political Science:

  • American Politics
  • Comparative Politics
  • International Relations
  • Public Policy and Administration

Graduate Certificate Programs

12 credit hour programs offered in the following focus areas:

  • Nonprofit Management
  • Public Management
  • Public Policy
  • Organizational Change and Conflict Management (online only)
  • Global Public Affairs (online only)