Applied Politics, MAP, Online

The University of Akron Online offers a Master of Applied Politics (MAP) for students seeking careers in campaigns, government relations, advocacy, public affairs, fundraising, political communication, and civic engagement. Developed in partnership with the Ray C. Bliss Institute of Applied Politics, the program is one of only five graduate programs of its kind in the United States and the only one in the Midwest focused specifically on applied politics.Unlike traditional political science degrees that emphasize theory and research, the MAP focuses on practical politics and experiential learning. Students develop real-world skills in campaign strategy, electoral messaging, fundraising, digital communication, stakeholder engagement, and organizational leadership while learning how political organizations influence public opinion and drive action.Delivered fully online through synchronous and asynchronous course formats, the program can be completed from anywhere and accommodates both full-time and part-time students.

Bachelor's degree: A minimum of a four-year U.S. bachelor's degree or international equivalent from an accredited institution.Grades: Minimum 2.50 GPA, based on a 4-point scale (Note: the minimum GPA for assistantship eligibility is 2.75)Additional program requirements: Please refer to the academic department for information regarding admissions requirements for specific academic programs. All these various scores must be official scores, no photocopies.Transcripts: Submit official transcripts electronically or by mail from all previous institutions. International students have additional transcript requirements.Letters of Recommendation are not required of all applicants. Please ask your academic department about letter-of-recommendation requirements for your academic program.