A master’s degree in international relations will provide you with advanced knowledge of international diplomacy, politics, and global concerns.
This degree will prepare you for a variety of fascinating positions in government, business, and non-governmental organizations functioning on a global scale, both in the United States and abroad. Numerous universities across the country provide high-quality degrees in this field.
Best International Relations Graduate Programs USA
1. Georgetown University’s Walsh School of Foreign Service
The Walsh School of Foreign Service was a pioneer in foreign service education, starting programs in 1922.
This multidisciplinary master’s degree in international relations combines international relations, history, and economics.
The following courses are offered: international relations: theory and practice, applied international economics, and ethics and international affairs.
2. Stanford University, Freeman Spogli Institute for International Studies
Stanford is one of the world’s top colleges, situated in the heart of Silicon Valley. The school has an international relations class with an average of 28 pupils from 15 nations.
This master’s degree in international relations allows students to focus on one of four specializations: cyber policy and security (CYBER), energy, natural resources, and the environment (ENRE), governance and development (GOVDEV), or international security (ISEC).
3. Harvard Extension School
Harvard Extension School offers flexible, open-access education with industry professionals and renowned Harvard faculty.
This international relations graduate program also offers extra certificates in international security, social justice, and nuclear deterrence.
4. Yale University, Jackson School of Global Affairs
The Jackson School of Global Affairs is well-known for attracting creative and intellectually interested students to its flexible, multidisciplinary programs in global and international studies.
This master’s degree in international relations allows students to create their plan of study based on a four-course format.
5. Johns Hopkins University’s School of Advanced International Studies
JHU’s School of Advanced International Studies faculty contains numerous eminent researchers with connections to global thought leadership, providing students with exceptional possibilities for intellectual cooperation.
This international relations master’s degree allows you to pursue a dual degree by combining it with a program in business, public health, or law.
6. Princeton University, School of Public and International Affairs
Princeton’s School of Public and International Affairs has 20 centers and programs that support advanced research and policy creation.
Students in this Master of Public Affairs (MPA) degree have the option of pursuing a track in international relations or development.
7. The University of Chicago’s Harris School of Public Policy
The Harris School of Public Policy is one of the nation’s leading public policy institutions, to develop leaders who appreciate evidence and can draw on the capabilities of data collecting and analysis.
As part of this dual degree, you will earn an MA in Public Policy in addition to your MA in International Relations.
8. Tufts University, The Fletcher School
Tufts University’s Fletcher School faculty includes professional practitioners known for their cutting-edge research and publications, and they routinely advise policymakers and even presidents.
MALD is the school’s flagship international affairs degree, and it is highly customizable to students’ academic, professional, and personal interests.
USC’s Dornsife College of Letters, Arts, and Sciences is noted for its creative and flexible programs.
The university offers three master’s programs in international relations, each with a dual degree in law, public administration, or planning.
9. Duke University, Center for International Development
The Duke Center for International Development’s initiatives are based on the goal of universal peace and prosperity, with a focus on global diversity.
The expedited route allows you to earn this master’s degree in international relations in just one year.
International Relations Master’s Degree Admission Requirements:
Although each program has its unique standards (so always check with the admissions office), the normal requirements for admission to a master’s degree in international relations are:
- A bachelor’s degree in a related field
- A minimum GPA (usually 3.0 or 3.5)
- GRE or GMAT scores
- A personal statement or statement of purpose
- Letters of recommendation
- Academic resume or CV
- TOEFL or IELTS score (for international students)
Why You Should Get an International Relations Master’s Degree
An international relations master’s degree is a significant qualification that will prepare you for a variety of fascinating global positions.
A graduate degree in this field will demonstrate that you have a greater level of knowledge and more advanced abilities than people with an undergraduate degree in a related discipline.
Studying this type of degree will provide you with the following benefits:
- Specialized knowledge in a subject with international relevance
- A wide set of work opportunities
- Opportunity to improve critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving abilities.
- A distinct and global outlook
- Significant networking opportunities.
How to Choose the Best International Relations Program
There are numerous international relations master’s programs available for prospective students, making it difficult to determine which is the best fit for you.
The first element to evaluate is the program’s topics and specializations: international relations is a large discipline, so the program’s focus must align with your interests and career objectives.
You should also evaluate the faculty and their areas of specialization, as well as reputation, in addition to the school’s overall reputation. Other considerations include possibilities for research and professional development.
Finally, the cost is certainly an important concern, but it should be balanced with the financial aid available.
Some higher-cost programs may be available if the school provides generous financial aid packages.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to earn a master’s degree in international relations?
Most master’s programs in international relations require students to complete their degrees in two years, although there are also expedited programs that can be completed in just 12 months.
What can you do after earning a master’s degree in international relations?
An international relations master’s degree enables you to pursue a career in international trade, foreign policy, or diplomacy in both the public and commercial sectors.
Conclusion
Many master’s programs in international relations are tough and competitive, but this degree can help you develop a meaningful and gratifying career, especially if you are interested in international politics.
Many graduate programs in this discipline are quite flexible, allowing you to tailor and construct your curriculum depending on your interests.
