Core Requirements

The Ph.D. requires 48 total hours of coursework, plus 18 hours of 699 (Dissertation). All students must complete, at UNM, the methodology sequence (POLS 581, 580 and 681), Survey of Political Science as a Discipline and Profession (POLS 582); three pro-seminars (including one in each chosen concentration); two research seminars in their primary concentration and one research seminar in their secondary concentration. Grades of a “B” or higher must be attained in POLS 581 and 580. All core and concentration courses/requirements must be fulfilled before taking the comprehensive exams.

Students who select the methodology concentration must take two additional methodology courses in political science or other disciplines, as approved by the political science graduate advisor, over and above the methodology sequence (581, 580 and 681), and one research seminar employing advanced research methods.

Comprehensive Examinations

Students pursuing a Doctoral Degree at UNM will concentrate on two fields of study, and will take comprehensive, written and oral exams in those two fields.  In addition students will have completed a research paper before sitting for comprehensive exams.  This research paper will also satisfy the requirement for the M.A. enroute.

Dissertation

Upon passing the comprehensive exams, the candidate may proceed to the dissertation phase, assuming all other department and Office of Graduate Studies requirements have been met. 

For more details on program requirements please see the Political Science Graduate Program Handbook

Note: Student who entered the program prior to Fall 2014 may fall under the previous Graduate Program Handbook.