Program Description
The Master of Arts in International Relations prepares students who intend to continue their education in a Ph.D. program in international relations, comparative politics, or a related field. The program also provides continuing international education opportunities for those working in the public or private sector. Graduate seminars, education abroad, and practicum opportunities enable students to explore the scholarship in their field and its applications. Students may select from among four specialized Major Fields: Area Studies, Conflict and Security Studies, Intelligence Studies, or Democracy & Rights.
Students are required to complete or demonstrate proficiency either in quantitative research methods or modern foreign language. How many hours in the major elective coursework depends on which track the student chooses: Research or Exam. On the Research Track, students will choose between a (1) traditional thesis or (2) a project developed in consultation with a committee of program advisors. Those on the Exam track will take a general examination over one's core, methods and major area of study. The program offers a dual degree option with the Master of Public Administration. Students intending to pursue the dual degree must apply separately to both degree programs.
Admissions Requirements
Applicants to the International Relations M.A. degree program must meet the graduate school's admission criteria, and should additionally demonstrate in their letter of application how their undergraduate and/or professional record will be enhanced by participation in the program. Candidates should also prepare an essay that discusses a current issue or policy related to international affairs or comparative politics. The essay should be approximately 500 words and should use secondary sources. Once all application materials have been received, students will be contacted by the Program Director to conduct an admissions interview.
Program Objectives
This program intends for students to:
- learn the process of research through coursework on Research Design and Methods, as well as through Project or Thesis work for those choosing the Research Track
- learn the state of the scholarly literature on theories of international and comparative politics
- become expert in a “major area” of the field through intense elective coursework in a chosen program of study
Program Learning Outcomes
Students completing this program will be able to:
- apply knowledge of theory and methods from core courses to answer exam questions about the state of International Relations
- evaluate the literature in a chosen major field in response to exam questions from areas of International Relations
- demonstrate adequate grasp of the core and elective materials to merit a Masters Degree in International Relations
- accurately summarize materials from the coursework of the student's designed Program of Study
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