Master of Arts in International Relations

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Through the online Master of Arts in International Relations program, students study the key principles and perspectives underlying the field of international relations. The curriculum helps students sharpen their analytical skills with regard to cross-cultural communication and foreign policy and cultivate the economic, statistical, and decision-making skills that are crucial to succeed in this sector.

Students will graduate with the framework to analyze and communicate international issues and evaluate the effectiveness of international programs and policy.

Program Overview

The online MAIR program is 39 credit hours, but students who have previously completed approved introductory macro and microeconomics course work will be eligible to forego 3 credit hours and finish the program in 36. The program can be completed in as few as 24 months.

Students can customize their course work by selecting from of a variety of concentrations, including global security, international development, and U.S. foreign policy. They will also be required to participate in at least one residency experience held on the School of International Service (SIS) campus in Washington, D.C., and have the opportunity to participate in optional study abroad trips that include locations around the world. They will finish the program with a capstone project that incorporates skills gained throughout their courses.

Class Profile

The information above reflects enrolled students as of January 2018.

Online Learning

Students enrolled in the MAIR program benefit from an innovative, online learning platform that combines live classes hosted via webcam, interactive course work, and collaborative group exercises. The platform allows for flexibility while receiving a world-class education at SIS, from anywhere in the world.

Learn more about the student experience.

Learning Outcomes

Course work in the MAIR program will provide students with the following competencies:

Theory and Practice

Students will gain knowledge of concepts, organizations, and policy debates in the field of international relations. They will explore the theoretical assumptions underpinning arguments and proposals and understand the major theories of international relations.

Research and Analysis

Students will be able to demonstrate writing, presentation, and thinking skills in the analysis of international relations as well as key quantitative research methods. They will also analyze policy to evaluate the effectiveness of programs.

Professional Intercultural Skills

Students will acquire the intercultural skills to analyze and interpret conflicts that involve people of different cultures; to understand the process of intercultural negotiation and adaptation; and to appreciate how culturally determined values, beliefs, and worldviews shape behavior at all levels.

Specialized Expertise

Students will develop proficiency in a subject area beyond foundational knowledge through in-depth study of a specialized subfield.

Request information to learn more about International Relations Online or contact Admissions at 855-306-2847