The choice of the thesis or non-thesis option depends upon a student's career goals. Those interested in entering Ph.D. programs are encouraged to select the thesis option. The U.S. Political Institutions and Processes option requires at least 12 hours in the areas of behavior and p rocesses and public law, and courses from 3 other areas. The general program requires at least 1 course from 4 of the 6 areas. Generally, courses from at least 3 areas are represented each semester, and courses art typically offered Monday-Thursday evenings.
Most seminars are relatively small in size so that students can receive individual attention.
Public administration and policy seminars are typically larger, often between 15 and 20 students. A graduate student lounge is located in Room 408 on the 4th floor of University Hall near faculty offices and seminar rooms. Each student will have access to a mailbox for departmental information and messages from faculty and other students. All student s may sign up for a computer account and are encouraged to make use of the various labs on campus.