Accelerated BA/MA in Applied Politics or Global Public Policy

If you plan to work in government or public service, you might consider putting your career on the fast track by earning a graduate degree, too. And you can earn a dual bachelor’s/master’s degree in just five years through Suffolk’s accelerated program.

You can apply to this dual-degree & program in your junior year at Suffolk, during the spring semester, and take your first graduate course the following fall. You can take two graduate-level courses in your senior year (one during the fall semester and one during the spring semester) and then complete your graduate studies in a fifth full-time year, saving both time and tuition.

Your graduate courses will enhance the knowledge and skills you gain as an undergraduate and help you get real-world experience with a professional internship.

Admission & Degree Requirements

This program is designed to provide an accelerated path for undergraduate students in the Political Science & Legal Studies department to obtain a Master’s degree in Applied Politics (MAAP) or Global Public Policy (MAGPP) quickly and at a reduced cost. Students benefit from the experience of a smooth transition from undergraduate to graduate study in a familiar environment; many will be able to continue research with faculty mentors.

Requirements to Apply

To apply for this program, students must:

  • Have a declared major of political science, law, or international relations
  • Be in junior class standing
  • Hold an overall GPA of 3.3 or higher
  • Hold a major GPA of 3.5 or higher
  • Complete a minimum of four undergraduate Political Science & Legal Studies courses
  • Receive a faculty nomination and a second recommendation (for more information, see below)

Applying to the Program

The recommended application deadlines for this program are:

  • For students on track to graduate from their undergraduate program after the spring term, March 15th of the junior year, rolling thereafter. Enrollment would begin the first semester (fall) of the senior year
  • For students on track to graduate from their undergraduate program after the fall term, October 15th of the junior year, rolling thereafter. Enrollment would begin the first semester (spring) of the senior year

To apply for this program, applicants must:

  1. Open the standard Suffolk University graduate application.
  2. Consult with Assistant Dean Sharon Lenzie who will audit your academic program and advise you.
  3. Request a faculty member of the Political Science & Legal Studies department submit a nomination on your behalf through a recommendation form. Nominations may be submitted electronically through the online application form. Online recommenders will receive a unique link for submission. A second recommendation is required, and may be from an instructor or supervisor. Additional information regarding recommendation forms can be found on the Graduate Admission website.
  4. Complete your application. Completed applications are reviewed by the MAAP/MAGPP Graduate Admissions Committee

Courses & Requirements

Learn more about the classes, requirements, and different options available to complete the program. View Curriculum