International Relations Graduate Programs in USA

Are you looking for a graduate program in international relations in the United States? Then you have made the right search, as we’re here to help you better.

Choosing an International Relations (IR) graduate program in the USA can be an exciting and rewarding journey. To help you navigate your options, here’s a comprehensive guide:

International Relations Graduate Programs in USA

Top-ranked Programs

Below are some of the top-ranked international relations graduate programs in USA

• Princeton University: Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs
• Harvard Extension School: Kennedy School of Government
• Georgetown University: Edmund A. Walsh School of Foreign Service
• Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University
• Stanford University: Center for International Security and Cooperation

Having listed these out, let’s talk a bit more about some of them.

1. Princeton University

Princeton University offers a graduate program in International Relations through the Princeton School of Public and International Affairs. The school offers a Ph.D. in Public Affairs in two research clusters: Security Studies; and Science, Technology, and Environmental Policy (STEP). The program is designed to train top-quality researchers in critical areas of public policy. Graduates pursue careers in academia, government agencies, policy think tanks, nonprofit agencies, and the private sector.

In addition to the Ph.D. program, the school also offers a Master in Public Policy program that includes courses in International Relations, International Development, Domestic Policy, Economics, and Public Policy.

2. Harvard Extension School

Harvard Extension School Offers a Master’s Degree Program in International Relations that can be completed online and in person. The program is customizable and includes 12 courses, a thesis or capstone project, and costs $3,220 per course.

The Harvard Extension School’s Master of Liberal Arts in Extension Studies (ALM) degree in International Relations is a unique and flexible option for individuals seeking graduate-level education in this field. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

Program Structure:

• Online program: 11 out of 12 courses are delivered online, offering asynchronous learning and convenience.
• On-campus experience: One 2-weekend intensive course or a 3-week summer course provides in-person interaction with faculty and peers.
• Interdisciplinary approach: Courses cover diverse topics like security studies, global governance, and regional politics, encouraging critical thinking and analytical skills.
• Thesis or capstone project: Choose to write a thesis or complete a capstone project to showcase your research and writing abilities.

3. Georgetown University

Georgetown University offers a Master of Science in Foreign Service that can be completed in person. The program includes courses in international relations theory, international economics, and international security, and costs $2,055 per credit.

Georgetown University offers several prestigious International Relations (IR) graduate programs through its Edmund A. Walsh School of Foreign Service (SFS). Here’s a breakdown of the options:

Master’s Programs:

• Master of Science in Foreign Service (MSFS): A broad IR program providing core courses in international relations, history, and economics before focusing on a specific concentration.
• Master of Arts in International Security (MAIS): Focuses on security studies, conflict resolution, and international law in a rapidly changing world.
• Master of Arts in International Business and Policy (MA-IBP): Designed for working professionals, this program blends business and international relations to prepare graduates for global leadership roles.
• Master of Arts in Arab Studies (MAAS): Provides in-depth understanding of the Arab world, its history, politics, and cultures.
• Master of Arts in Asian Studies (MAAS): Offers comprehensive knowledge of Asian societies, economies, and political systems.
• Master of Arts in European and Eurasian Studies (MAEES): Focuses on the politics, economics, and cultures of Europe and Eurasia.
• Master of Arts in Global Politics and Security (MAGPS): Explores the complex dynamics of global politics and security in the 21st century.
• Joint Degree Programs: SFS offers joint degrees in conjunction with other Georgetown schools, such as the McDonough School of Business and the McCourt School of Public Policy.

Doctoral Programs:

• Ph.D. in International Relations: This rigorous program prepares students for research and teaching careers in academia or government institutions.

How to apply for International Relations graduate program in USA

The application process for International Relations graduate programs in the USA can vary depending on the school and program. However, there are some general requirements that most schools have in common. Here are some of the common requirements:

1. Bachelor’s degree: You will need to have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution to be eligible for most graduate programs.
2. Transcripts: You will need to submit official transcripts from all colleges and universities you have attended.
3. Letters of recommendation: Most programs require two to three letters of recommendation from professors or employers who can attest to your academic and professional abilities.
4. Personal statement: You will need to write a personal statement that outlines your academic and professional background, your research interests, and your goals for pursuing a graduate degree in International Relations.
5. Standardized test scores: Some programs may require you to submit scores from standardized tests such as the GRE or GMAT.
6. English proficiency: If English is not your first language, you may need to submit TOEFL or IELTS scores to demonstrate your proficiency in English.

Remember, applying for graduate programs is an investment in your future. By carefully researching your options, preparing your materials thoroughly, and demonstrating your passion for international relations, you can increase your chances of securing admission to your dream program.

I hope this guide helps you navigate the application process for International Relations graduate programs in the USA.