The Master of Science in Global Studies and International Relations is a unique interdisciplinary graduate program that incorporates the subjects of global studies and international relations into one comprehensive degree – with an approach that allows you to apply classroom lessons directly to real-life situations.  

With a targeted curriculum focused on real-world fieldwork - such as analyzing the investment portfolios of developing nations, staging mock debates, crisis management, and the art of speechwriting for top embassy officials— you are equipped with the leadership tools to meet the complex challenges of globalization. 

You can also focus your study on one of four concentrations or choose from six major world regions to specialize in – all mentored by a distinguished faculty of policymakers, diplomats, ambassadors and global educators.  

To take the learning outside the classroom you can participate in the Diplomacy Lab and explore real-world challenges while contributing to the policy making process in conjunction with the U.S. State Department.  There is also the optional International Field Study Experience, where students serve as consultants for a global organization as it works to solve a real-world business challenge. 

With students coming from over 31 countries and 34 states opportunities for discussion and debates on international perspectives abound. This includes connecting to our international faculty and alumni who can serve as advocates during their job search. 

Graduates have gone on to work in diverse areas such as international business, journalism, defense, international security, for NGOs or the UN, various embassies and consulates, and nonprofits around the world.  

Program Objectives 

• Specialized Knowledge: Incorporate foundational global and intercultural knowledge, theories, research methods, and approaches to investigate global issues from government, private, and nonprofit viewpoints. 

• Broad and Integrative Knowledge: Frame and evaluate global challenges in international political, economic, security, or diplomatic areas in the selected region or concentration, drawing on perspectives and methods from diverse fields of study. 

• Applied and Collaborative Learning: Apply the advanced knowledge gained in the field of global studies to a practical challenge, articulate in writing the insights gained from this experience, and assess approaches, scholarly debates, or standards for professional performance applicable to the challenge. 

• Civic and Global Learning: Assess and develop a position on a contemporary social issue from a socio-historical perspective and from multiple viewpoints of the stakeholders. 

• Experiential Learning: Synthesize and transfer learning to new, complex situations within course work or beyond the classroom. 

Unique Features 

• Opportunity to participate in our International Field Study Experience(IFSE): Serve as an international consultant for global organization on a current challenge they’re facing. Present your research and findings in multiple working sessions with the sponsor. Students can participate in the IFSE program multiple times. 
• Other experiential learning opportunities: You’ll have the option to participate in co-ops, capstone projects, and internships at the United Nations, U.S. Department of State, Pathfinder International, Human Rights Watch, Charity Water, Refuge Point, and many more. 
• Participate in the Diplomacy Lab and explore real-world challenges while contributing to the policymaking process with the US State Department. Students who complete the lab with a B+ will also get a Diplomacy Badge which can be displayed on LinkedIn for prospective employers to see.  
• Flexible learning formats: With courses offered 100% online, on campus in Boston or Seattle, or in a hybrid format, you can complete your degree without putting your life on hold.