M.A. in International Studies

The Master of Arts (M.A.) in International Studies is offered through the School of History, Political Science and International Studies. It incorporates a multi- disciplinary approach integrating economics, history, international studies and political science into all graduate programs.

The M.A. in International Studies program emphasizes comparative systems and conflict resolution. The program offers two concentrations:

  • Politics and the Global Economy
  • International Problems and Conflict Resolution

Within each course, regional concerns are stressed to ensure a global perspective. The program provides opportunities for individuals working in government, diplomacy, business and other fields to study the areas of international affairs appropriate to their career goals. It is designed to help individuals develop the capacity to understand and appreciate systems other than their own, as well as provide the opportunity to apply research and analytical techniques to the resolution of conflicts.

Admission Requirements

  • Graduation from an accredited college or university with at least 24 credits in political science, area studies or closely related subjects.
  • In addition to general University requirements, applicants must have undergraduate grade point ratios of not less than 3.0 on a scale of 4.0.
  • Applicants are required to submit three letters of reference that speak to their ability to successfully complete graduate studies.
  • Submission of an official score report for the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) General Test taken within the last five years. (The GRE requirement is waived for applicants who have completed a master's degree.)

Applicants who have not completed all requirements for admission to the degree program may be permitted to enroll in classes for credit on a non-matriculated or non-degree basis.


CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

Professional opportunities for students with a Master of Arts in International Studies cover a broad spectrum. Increasingly, an understanding of the complexities of diverse national and international political systems is essential to careers in many fields. Graduates of the program are employed in such areas as government service, law, education, multi-national corporations and journalism. Additionally, many of the students completing the program have gone on to pursue doctoral programs at colleges and universities throughout the country.

STUDENTS

Students enrolled in the M.A. in International Studies program enjoy the opportunity of studying with multi- disciplinary faculty with international and national reputations. Those applying for enrollment in the program should have graduated from an accredited college or university with at least 24 credits in political science or closely related subjects and achieved an undergraduate grade point ratio of not less than 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. Three letters of reference that speak to the student's ability to successfully complete graduate studies should also be submitted.

UNIQUE OPPORTUNITIES

Students in this program have the opportunity to enroll in appropriate offerings in Fairleigh Dickinson's College of Business Administration, the Public Administration Institute or the School of Education. The School houses the Kappa Omicron Chapter of Pi Sigma Alpha, the International Fraternity for Political Science and International Studies and sponsors a speakers' program on international issues. Select summer study graduate programs also offered at the University's historic overseas campus, Wroxton Campus, in England.

Fairleigh Dickinson University's proximity to New York City -the economic, financial, political and inter- national center of the world -provides students with unique opportunities for relevant, first-hand experiences in their fields of study. For example, students in the program have taken field trips to Hyde Park; visited the United Nations in session, where they have been hosted by missions from Egypt, S.Yemen and Belgium, among others; and received briefings and special lectures on Ellis Island.

Additionally, students have many opportunities to attend lectures, presentations and debates featuring distinguished international officials. Recent visitors to campus include the Ambassador of Egypt to China, the Ambassador of Yugoslavia/Montenegro to Brazil, the Ambassador of Jamaica to the United States, and leaders of political groups in Israel and the Arab-American Organization in New York.

GLOBAL VISION

All of the majors offered within the School of History, Political and International Studies are placed in an international context to reflect the global nature of our society. Fairleigh Dickinson has long offered strong inter- national programs, taking advantage of the surrounding international culture. Majors also are encouraged to study at the University's Wroxton Campus in England to gain more insight into other cultures.