SCHOOL of INTERNATIONAL SERVICE

American University · Washington, D.C.

MA, INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS
INTERNATIONAL POLITICS

MA Links

Degree Requirements (39 credits)

Major Field (18 credit hours)

  • SIS-601 Theory in International Relations (3)
    - or -

    SIS-604 Masterworks of International Relations (3)
  • ECON-603 Introduction to Economic Theory (3) or an approved course in economics (3)
  • 12 credit hours in the International Politics (IP) field proposed by the student in a statement of purpose and approved by the student's faculty advisor.

Related Field (9 credit hours)

  • Three courses selected from among the core or principal courses offered by one of the major field groups in SIS: Comparative and Regional Studies (CRS), International Development (ID), International Communication (IC), International Economic Relations (IER), International Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) or United States Foreign Policy (USFP), Global Environmental Politics (GEP).
    • - or -
  • Three courses making up an individually-tailored related field constructed in consultation with the student's faculty advisor or the SIS Graduate Office.

Social Science Research Methodology (6 credit hours)

  • SIS-600 Quantitative Analysis in International Affairs (3)
  • One methodology course work appropriate to the student's research interests (3) Additional methodology courses

Research and Writing Requirement (6 credit hours)

  • SIS-797 Master's Thesis Supervision (6)
    • - or -
  • Substantial research paper requirement *
    • - or -
  • Research practicum **

* One 3 credit hour internship or cooperative education field experience and one 3 credit hour substantial research paper OR two substantial research papers.
** 6 credit hour supervised by major field faculty advisors (by permission and specific arrangement)

Note: The thesis or substantial research paper must relate clearly to the field of International Politics.

Foreign Language Proficiency

Certification of written proficiency in a modern foreign language related to regional concentration.

Comprehensive Examination

For specific information about courses, please consult the University Catalog, Bulletin, or your academic advisor.

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