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Comparative Politics

Our courses explore ideas about politics within countries across the world. We have particular strengths in the study of political regimes and democratization, internal conflict and civil war, political parties, citizens’ vote choice and other forms of political behavior, and the political economy of development.

Training in Comparative Politics

Students pursuing comparative politics as a first field are strongly advised to take the Comparative Politics Proseminars I and II (PS 450 and 460) and additional courses that fit their research interests.  Students pursuing comparative politics as a second field are strongly advised to take both proseminars and three additional courses offered by Comparative Politics faculty, earning a B+ or higher in each course.

Comprehensive Exams in Comparative Politics

Students should meet with the Field Chair early in their exam preparations.  The exam will cover material from graduate seminars offered in the department as well as other major themes in comparative politics.  Students should familiarize themselves with major works and contemporary debates in the field beyond their seminar work and consult exams from previous years. Information about the exam format can be found here.

Comparative politics faculty and students are active in

Faculty and Graduate Students