Masters of Applied American Politics & Policy

Students enter the MAAPP program in the Spring or Fall semester of each year. For details on the FSU Graduate School admissions process, visit https://gradschool.fsu.edu/ For specific details on MAAPP admissions, visit https://cosspp.fsu.edu/polisci/masters-of-applied-american-politics-policy/

Applicants are required to submit the following through to Office of Admissions using their electronic application procedures.

Electronic Application Submission Requirements 

1. Complete the FSU Graduate School application online here: https://gradschool.fsu.edu/admissions/graduate-admissions
   
   Please note that the application for entry into the MAAPP program is listed under the major name “Applied American Politics and Policy.” Applicants should select the Campus/Location as “Main Campus-Tallahassee.” The degree is a Master’s of Science.
   
2. An official copy of transcripts from all previous universities/colleges attended must be submitted. We recommend that you have official transcripts sent to FSU electronically to
   graduateadmissions@fsu.edu. 
   
   If this is not an option, you may submit an official transcript (in a sealed envelope) from each college and/or university attended directly to the Office of Graduate Admissions. Please note that there may be a delay in processing transcripts that are send via mail.
   
   Office of Graduate Admissions
   222 South Copeland St
   Westcott Building Room 314
   Tallahassee FL 32306-1410
   
   Students having earned a bachelor’s degree from FSU are not required to submit paper copies of transcripts.
   
3. Statement of Purpose (approx. 500 words), detailing your interest in pursuing the MAAPP degree, your qualifications, political experience, how you intend to utilize what you learn in the MAAPP program to support your long-term career goals, as well as any other important information you wish for the Admissions Committee to consider.
   
4. Resume/Curriculum Vitae: Submit a current resume/curriculum vitae with the application.
   
5. Writing Sample (Optional): The writing sample should not exceed 2,000 words and should be submitted as either a .doc or .pdf file.
   
6. International students must also submit TOEFL scores to the University’s Graduate Admissions office. Per University requirements, a minimum score of 80 on the internet-based examination or 550 on the paper-based examination, are required for admission into the program. Other English proficiency examinations will not be accepted.
   

During the application process, feel free to contact the Department’s Senior Academic Program Specialist, Elisa Kuchvalek (ekuchvalek@fsu.edu), to check on the status of your file or to pose any questions you may have.

Decisions about admission are based on academic performance, political and professional experience, and the applicant’s statement of purpose. Graduate Record Examination (GRE) and/or Law School Admission Test (LSAT) scores are not required, however an applicant may submit their test scores if they choose to do so. MAAPP admission is highly competitive and based on the number of available slots, which varies from semester to semester. Generally, around 50 percent of applicants are offered admission. Applicants should have a minimum 3.0 GPA in their upper-level coursework at the undergraduate level (GPA is calculated beginning with the semester the student reaches their sixtieth credit hour as listed on undergraduate transcripts). Materials are submitted electronically to the department via the University’s graduate admissions application system. A comprehensive review of the applicant’s file will be completed by the Admissions Committee and deviations from GPA are permissible for applicants who possess exceptional qualities that are not reflected in these criteria.

Because admission is highly competitive, no particular GPA or professional experience guarantees acceptance. Applicants will receive notification of the admissions decision after all admissions materials have been received and reviewed which is usually four to six weeks after the application deadline.

Overview

MAAPP is a 36 credit hour, non-thesis program comprised of 24 credit hours of coursework and a 12 credit Practicum. Twelve of the 24 credit hours are in core courses; the remaining 12 semester hours are electives.

MAAPP offers courses in all three semesters: Spring, Summer, and Fall. Each course is generally offered once a year, though course offerings evolve over time and vary from semester to semester. Below is a brief description of recent MAAPP courses. For detailed information on MAAPP courses, review the MAAPP Curriculum Guide.

Core Courses 

• Students complete one course in each of the following four areas: 1) Fundamentals of Political Management 2) Communications 3) Campaigns 4) Policy/Research

Elective Courses

• Students complete four approved courses from MAAPP electives or Department-approved courses offered outside of the program.

Practicum

• Students enroll in POS 5945 MAAPP Practicum for a total of 12 credit hours and have the choice of enrolling in the course in one semester for 12 hours or two separate, consecutive semesters for 6 hours each. POS 5945 is offered each semester and students may not register for the Practicum for their first semester in MAAPP. There are two elements of the Practicum: a work requirement and a paper requirement.

Fundamentals of Political Management. This course gives foundational knowledge about, and a common framework for, grasping contemporary American politics. The course offers a critical examination of the operation of American political institutions and the philosophical and political environment in which these institutions function.

This course challenges students to become informed, articulate, and ethical contributors to American political life, providing a solid foundation for those pursuing careers in politics, policy, or public service. This course offers a comprehensive foundation in contemporary American politics, offering students an analytical framework to understand the complexities of American political institutions and the philosophical and political environments in which they operate. Serving as a core course for the MAAPP degree, this class equips students with the tools to critically examine the dynamic and evolving political landscape of the United States.

Through a combination of readings, class discussions, and real-world applications, students will engage deeply with core political concepts, ideologies, and discourse. Assignments will challenge students to apply theoretical knowledge to current political issues, enabling them to understand and navigate the practicalities of political engagement. By the end of the course, students will have developed a clear and applied comprehension of key aspects of American politics. They will be prepared to pursue successful careers in the political arena.

Political Communication and Message Development. This course offers an in-depth exploration of the specialized forms of communication used by political professionals. Students will learn how to craft strategically sound and rhetorically powerful messages for electoral campaigns, policy campaigns, and crisis situations, as well as how to evaluate political messages critically. This is a course designed for students pursuing a degree in politics or public service or as an elective for other fields. This course equips students with the skills necessary to develop and evaluate effective political communication strategies aimed at persuading and influencing public opinion.

The course emphasizes real-world applications, with assignments, activities, and discussions focused on the key principles of political messaging. Students will engage in interactive lessons that highlight the importance of research in communication, message sequencing, and narrative-building. Through these experiences, students will also explore various communication channels and their use in political campaigns and crisis management. In addition, the course introduces students to a wide range of career opportunities available to political communications professionals, providing them with a practical understanding of the field. Upon completion, students will be prepared to design and assess political communications strategies in real-world settings, equipping them with the tools to pursue careers in political, public relations, and communications roles.

Applied Media Selection & Application. This course offers an in-depth exploration of the strategic choices involved in media use for political and electoral campaigns. Once those choices are evaluated, student will be offered a primer on using various communications tools. As the media landscape continues to evolve, students will engage with both theoretical frameworks and practical applications to navigate the complexities of modern communications.

The course begins with foundational theories of media and media selection, emphasizing their relevance in the context of local races, followed by firsthand experiences in media strategy formulation and application. Through interactive lectures, discussions, and guest speaker sessions featuring industry practitioners, students will analyze case studies and current events, enhancing their grasp of effective media strategies in political communication. Assignments will foster critical thinking and practical skills, preparing students for future roles in political and public relations environments. The course involves a great deal of reading and writing assignments to accomplish course objectives.

The Campaign Process. This course equips students with the skills and knowledge to manage modern political campaigns successfully. Focusing on the multifaceted challenges faced by political consultants, campaign managers, and grassroots staff, students will develop comprehensive campaign plans integrating key resources and strategies necessary for electoral success. The course covers critical topics such as targeting, message and issue development, fundraising and budgeting, and effective media use.

Through interactive discussions, guest speakers, and reading assignments, students will engage with the complexities of American political campaigns, exploring the evolution of candidates, the role of surrogates, opposition research, public opinion polling, and voter demographics. By fostering a dynamic learning environment, this course prepares students to navigate the intricacies of campaign management and implement strategies designed to resonate with voters.  

Creating Compelling Campaigns. This course prepares students to become versatile political practitioners equipped with the skills, tools, and mindsets necessary for success in today’s dynamic political landscape. Emphasizing creative and persuasive campaign tactics, students will learn to navigate various roles within political campaigns, applying principles of marketing and advertising to develop compelling strategies that engage and mobilize voters.

Through a combination of interactive lectures, applied learning activities, and collaboration with experienced guest speakers, students will create impactful campaign content and materials. The course will also focus on persuasion and its critical role in campaign activities. By the end of the course, students will have a portfolio of work that enhances their marketability to campaigns seeking talented and effective staffers.

Political Research. This course offers students a comprehensive knowledge of the interplay between research methods, policymaking, social and political theory, and communication strategies within the political arena. As the dynamics of politics evolves with advancements in opinion research, election forecasting, and media communication, students will explore innovative research techniques essential for effective decision-making in politics.

The course emphasizes the importance of both theoretical foundations and practical applications, allowing students to gather observations, analyze data, and leverage findings to inform policy and campaign strategies. Through the examination of real-world policy issues, students will propose, plan, and present thorough evaluations of political research utilized in the policymaking process.

Applied Policy Analysis. This course provides students with in-depth knowledge of public policy analysis. Students who successfully complete the course must demonstrate that they understand the nature of different policy problems, the tools available to address public policy problems, how to read and produce policy analysis memos, and the strength and weaknesses of different types of scientific evidence from which policy decisions are based.

Students will study, discuss, and analyze public policy in the areas of Federalism, intergovernmental relations, rulemaking, regulations, economic policy, government budgeting, crime, education, civil rights, immigration, social welfare, healthcare, environmental, and energy policy. The overarching goal is to examine and discuss public policy objectively and analytically, focusing on evaluating the quality of information and assessing our beliefs considering credible evidence available.

Applied Advocacy. This course offers an in-depth exploration of the fundamentals of advocacy, focusing on strategic and tactical approaches essential for effective lobbying. Students will gain a comprehensive knowledge of how to develop and implement advocacy strategies aimed at influencing the executive and legislative branches across federal, state, and local levels. Emphasizing the intricacies of the budget process, the course equips students with the skills to navigate various lobbying strategies and manage government affairs within corporations and trade associations.

Throughout the course, students will engage in critical analysis of the policymaking processes from the perspectives of both professional advocates and public officials. They will learn to differentiate among various types of lobbyists and advocacy organizations, as well as grassroots movements, enhancing their ability to work within diverse political contexts. Key political institutions and their impact on advocacy will be examined alongside the ethical guidelines that govern the profession.

Students will also study the procedural aspects of legislative sessions, committee meetings, and budgetary processes, enabling them to assess how decisions are made on specific policy issues. A significant component of the course involves the development of a comprehensive advocacy initiative, allowing students to apply their learning in a practical setting. By the end of the course, students will be well-prepared to negotiate policy solutions, create effective career plans in advocacy, and contribute meaningfully to the policymaking landscape.

The Florida Legislative Process. This course is an in-depth examination of the Florida Legislature, focusing on its law-making processes, budget formulation, and the interplay between the legislative, executive, and judicial branches. Students will explore how the Florida Legislature represents constituents, addresses constitutional constraints, and maintains the integrity of its operations. The course highlights the appropriations process, committee structures, and the various legislative procedures that govern bill passage, including amendments, voting, and vetoes. Through critical analysis and practical case studies, students will deepen their appreciation of the dynamics within Florida’s state government and the implications for public policy.”

Political Fundraising. The goal of this course is to introduce students to the basic principles of raising money for candidates for elected office. While fundraising might conjure up images of smoky back-room deals, expensive dinners and horse-trading, political fundraising is a difficult and highly specialized profession within the political sphere, making it an ideal skill for MAAPP students to acquire. Every assignment in this class is work an actual fundraising professional would undertake.

Using current candidates for political office in Florida and the data associated with them, combined with an underpinning of campaign finance regulations, students will learn the basic mechanics of actual fundraising by assuming the position of finance director for a Florida State or House candidate. Students will apply the information provided by in-course lectures by the instructor, reading assignments, and research assignments to produce fundraising materials and projects based upon real-world campaigns. The course will culminate in the production of a fundraising portfolio for the student’s candidate of choice.

Money in Politics. The goal of this course is to examine state and federal campaign finance structures and other political entities using real-world examples. What makes a Super PAC super? What is dark money and how can we shine a light on it? Are corporations people, too? If you’ve ever asked yourself these or similar questions, this is the course is for you. Using real-world political finance data, students will explore fundraising mechanics and finance laws for federal campaigns, state and national political parties, political committees, dark money entities and the intersection thereof.

While no academic class is a substitute for a qualified elections law attorney, a familiarity with campaign finance issues is a skill that any political operative – regardless of specialization – can use throughout their career. Understanding the way money is raised, moved and spent, and the ability to find and properly interpret finance reports, provides actionable political data that would otherwise remain obfuscated.

Community Organizing. This course introduces the fundamentals of community organizing, grassroots mobilization, and coalition and association management. This course touches on the history and theories of social movements in the United States with a focus on applied skills and techniques for effective organizing. Students will learn how to select issues, build coalitions, and craft organizational plans. We also explore tactics to develop, manage, and sustain political organizations. Throughout the course, students work directly with an organization or association of their choosing to craft an issue-based campaign plan.

Applied Local Politics. This course is designed to immerse students in the intricate workings of local government, examining its various functions and the dynamics of local political arenas. This course emphasizes the significance of local governance, from county governments and municipal administrations to school boards, as the most immediate form of governance affecting citizens’ daily lives. Through a combination of discussions, readings, and practical assignments, students will engage with real-world local government issues, fostering a comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms that drive local policy and decision-making. 

Students will begin by exploring the foundational roles and responsibilities of local governmental bodies and gaining knowledge of how these entities operate and interact with citizens. By analyzing case studies and engaging in group projects, participants will study the nuances of local governance, including the challenges and opportunities faced by elected officials and public administrators. The course will also emphasize the importance of community engagement, encouraging students to develop strategies for fostering active participation in local decision-making processes.

By the end of the course, students will be equipped not only to advocate for their communities but also to propose actionable solutions to local governance challenges. They will hone critical thinking and analytical skills, enabling them to anticipate policy outcomes and negotiate effectively with various stakeholders. Ultimately, this course aims to empower students to become informed, active participants in their local political landscapes, preparing them for successful careers in public service, advocacy, or civic leadership.

Data For Campaigns. This course provides a comprehensive introduction to applied data analysis within the context of electoral campaigns and policy-making. Students will learn to effectively access, analyze, and visualize data using the R-programming software language. As data-driven decision-making becomes increasingly vital in legislative and lobbying efforts, this course equips students with the necessary skills to navigate complex datasets and extract actionable insights.

Through hands-on projects and collaborative learning, students will explore the process of merging data from various sources, identifying and rectifying data issues, and communicating findings to diverse audiences. While no prior programming experience is required, a strong motivation to learn R-programming software is essential. By the end of the semester, students will emerge as confident data analysts, ready to contribute meaningfully to their current or future employers in the field of policy advocacy and campaign strategy.

Earned Media. In an age where information overload is the norm, mastering earned media becomes essential for effective communication strategies. Studying the intricate dynamics of media relations equips students with the essential skills and resilience needed to navigate complex news cycles and ever-evolving media landscapes. Throughout the course, students will explore various facets of earned media, including the strategic development of compelling pitches and the nuanced art of messaging. Additionally, students will delve into the integration of social media platforms to amplify outreach efforts and leverage AI tools for audience analysis, trend forecasting, and crafting tailored campaigns that resonate in a fast-evolving digital landscape.

Utilizing a blend of theoretical frameworks and practical applications, students will dissect successful pitching techniques and learn directly from industry veterans who have navigated the challenges of media relations. Emphasizing the importance of strategic thinking, relationship-building, and ethical considerations, this course prepares students to harness the full potential of earned media coverage effectively.

Participants will engage in direct projects, collaborating with peers to develop and implement a media outreach campaign. The course culminates in a comprehensive media event, serving as a final assessment where students put their skills to the test. By the end of this immersive experience, students will possess a robust toolkit for crafting impactful media narratives, managing crises with confidence, and fostering meaningful connections with journalists and media outlets. This course not only prepares students for real-world applications but also instills a deep appreciation of the principles that guide successful media relations in today’s fast-paced communication environment.

Opposition Research. This course serves as a comprehensive guide to the operation, strategy, and application of opposition research within the political arena. Designed for aspiring political strategists and campaign managers, the course looks at the critical role that opposition research plays in shaping political narratives and influencing voter perceptions. Students will learn the essential skills needed to identify, analyze, and produce impactful research on political candidates, equipping them with the tools necessary to navigate the complexities of modern campaigning.

Throughout the course, students will engage in firsthand projects, implementing a structured plan to collect, analyze, and synthesize data on various political figures. Key elements of the curriculum include understanding the relevance of opposition research, mastering techniques for sourcing credible information and developing the ability to produce professional, high-quality reports. Additionally, students will explore the ethical considerations and strategic implications of opposition research, preparing them to manage and direct research operations within a political campaign effectively. By the end of the course, participants will emerge with a robust understanding of how to leverage opposition research to enhance campaign strategies and achieve electoral success.

Law & Politics. This course is designed to equip students with a foundational understanding of legal concepts and issues that non-attorneys frequently encounter in the Florida political arena. The curriculum is divided into four comprehensive parts: I) The Florida Courts and the Florida Constitution, II) Legislative Drafting, Statutory Interpretation, and an overview of Administrative Law, III) Federal/State Preemption and Local Government Law, and IV) Election Law and Campaign Finance. Through this structured approach, students will gain knowledge of the intricate relationship between law and politics, focusing on how legal frameworks shape political processes.

Throughout the course, students will learn to identify potential legal issues as they arise and understand the implications of laws, constitutional provisions, and judicial decisions on political actors and organizations. Engaging in case studies, discussions, and practical exercises, students will develop critical skills in legal reasoning and analysis relevant to Florida’s political landscape. By the end of the course, participants will be better prepared to navigate the legal challenges within the political world, making informed decisions that align with both legal requirements and political objectives.

The MAAPP Practicum. The Practicum is a vital component of the MAAPP curriculum, designed to provide direct experience in a professional setting related to your field of study. All students must enroll in POS 5945, MAAPP Practicum, for a total of 12 credit hours. Students have the option of enrolling in the course in one semester for 12 hours or two separate, consecutive semesters for 6 hours each. POS 5945 is offered each semester.

There are two elements of the Practicum: a work requirement and a paper requirement. The Practicum is not available for enrollment during a student’s first semester in the program, allowing the student to build foundational knowledge through regular MAAPP coursework. However, students in their first semester of MAAPP are encouraged to begin working on their Practicum paper proposal, outline, and draft. The work requirement is satisfied by contributing 300 hours of work to the practicum. The circumstances of the work are to be arranged between the student and the employer.

Dr. Bradley Kile is Director of the MAAPP program and teaches the Fundamentals of Political Management, Political Research, and the Practicum.

Elisa Kuchvalek is Senior Academic Program Specialist for the Department of Political Science and provides academic support and guidance to MAAPP students.

MAPP Teaching Faculty

In addition to Dr. Kile (who teaches the Fundamentals of Political Management, Political Research, and the Practicum) the following are teaching faculty for MAAPP.

Dr. Lonna Atkeson, FSU Faculty, Instructor for Electoral Politics

Slater Bayliss, The Advocacy Partners, Instructor for Applied Advocacy

Richard Herring, REHerring, LLC, Instructor for Florida Legislative Process

Stephen MacNamara, FSU Faculty, Instructor for Applied Policy Analysis, and Law & Politics

Beth Matuga, Hard Ask Consulting, LLC, Instructor for Fundraising, and Money in Politics

Adam Montgomery, Knight Owl Strategies, Instructor for Earned Media

Holly Parker Curry, Theriaque & Spain Law Firm, Instructor for Community Organizing 

Jay Revell, Revell Media, Instructor for Creating Compelling Campaigns

Drew Piers, Sachs Media, Instructor for Political Communication and Message Development

Courtney Thomas, Office of the Mayor of Tallahassee, Instructor for Applied Local Politics

Phil Twogood, The Florida Legislature,Instructor for Florida Legislative Process

Greg Ungru, Briljent, Instructor for the Campaign Process

Steven Vancore, VancoreJones, Instructor for Media Selection and Application

Todd Wilder, Silver Bullet Research, Instructor for Opposition Research

The MAAPP program is a Master of Science degree designed for those who seek active careers in a number of political fields: Campaigns, Fundraising, Political Communications, Lobbying, Legislative Affairs, etc. Unlike the traditional graduate program in Political Science, which is designed for individuals with career paths in academia and research, MAAPP offers practical experience and a diverse set of skills for those interested in careers as political operatives. The MAAPP program has two distinct advantages over other political science programs of this type: flexible enrollment options including evening courses for students holding full-time jobs during the day, and the significant political networks available due to our location in Tallahassee, capital city of the third-largest state in the nation.

Most students complete the degree as part-time students in four to six semesters. The program is designed so students wishing to complete the degree in one year may do so by taking a full-time course load of 12 credits over three consecutive semesters. Once admitted to the program, students have up to seven years to complete the requirements for the MS degree. Certain required courses are only offered once per calendar year, so students wishing to complete the program in the quickest manner possible should take these courses as they become available. Prior to each semester, students are given a guide of course offerings to help them plan their pathway to complete the degree.

The MAAPP program admissions deadlines: May 1 for Fall and November 1 for Spring.

For information on graduate admissions and links to the application, please visit the Graduate Admissions Page at: https://admissions.fsu.edu/gradapp/

MAAPP is a 36-credit degree. Details on in-state and out-of-state tuition rates are available here: https://registrar.fsu.edu/bulletin/undergraduate-information/financial-information

There are a number of potential options for financial support.

1. Most MAAPP students work full time (or part time) in the political arena while they earn the MAAPP degree. Those that are self-financing their degree use a portion of their income to cover their tuition costs.
2. Details on aid, scholarship and employment are here: https://registrar.fsu.edu/bulletin/undergraduate-information/financial-information
3. Certain employees of the State of Florida are eligible for tuition waivers. Details are here: https://www.mybenefits.myflorida.com/work_and_life/additional_benefits/state_tuition_waiver
4. MAAPP offers limited annual scholarships which are announced periodically and all currently enrolled MAAPP students may apply. MAAPP does not have Graduate Assistant opportunities. Information on all FSU scholarships is available at the FS4U website here: https://fsu.academicworks.com/

MAAPP is fully in-person at the Tallahassee campus. The MAAPP Practicum may be completed at a work location outside of Tallahassee.

MAAPP classes meet once a week from 5:30pm-8pm. They are offered Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday evenings. Core courses and electives are offered in the Fall and Spring semesters. Only electives are offered in the Summer semester. The MAAPP Practicum is offered all semesters.

While courses for the MAAPP program are reserved to admitted students, there are limited options for non-MAAPP students to enroll in these courses. Students in graduate programs other than MAAPP can request enrollment in MAAPP courses on a space-available basis. The course instructor has sole discretion to grant the student permission to add into the course.

Students approved for the Combined Undergraduate/Graduate Pathway may take up to 12 credit hours of MAAPP coursework prior to their matriculation into the MAAPP program. These students may take a maximum of six MAAPP credits per semester. The Combined Pathway application can be found at https://cosspp.fsu.edu/academics/graduate/combined-pathways/.

The MAAPP program requires that 12 hours of credit be attained through the Practicum, POS5945. Students perform 300+ of professional political work as part of the Practicum. Students also complete an analytical paper. Students currently working in a regular, full-time political job are often able to meet the Practicum requirements through this work.

MAAPP graduates have an excellent record of job placement in local, state, and federal positions, as well as in the private sector. Some have used the MAAPP program for training prior to continuing to law school and careers in law and advocacy. Since 2001, the program has awarded over 650 Master of Science degrees which provides students with vast networking opportunities. We welcome students with a wide variety of political career aspirations.

If you have any further questions about the program, you can contact us through our inquiry form or by contacting Elisa Kuchvalek via email: ekuchvalek@fsu.edu

The Program Director for MAAPP also is available to answer program-specific questions. Dr. Brad Kile, email: bkile@fsu.edu

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