Another 15 percent of our graduates have gone on to further graduate study or law school, and 10 percent are teaching in secondary schools or community colleges. Students may choose between the comprehensive examination option or the thesis option. The comprehensive examination option requires a written examination in a major area and an oral examination that covers both the major and minor. Students must earn 32 credit hours for this option. The thesis option requires 30 hours, including a 6 hour thesis, and an examination whereby the student defends the thesis.
Most students are able to finish the degree in one year.
The Department awards several graduate assistantships for the nine-month academic year. Applications must be received by March 1, accompanied by two letters of recommendation from instructors in the student's major field. Internships are available to students to gain government and legal experience. Students may receive up to six hours of internship credit toward their degree. An internship in an agency may lead to a permanent job in that or a similar agency.