International Affairs Graduate Programs

International Affairs Graduate Programs and Curriculum

While helpful, an undergraduate degree in international affairs is not always a requirement for admission into an international affairs graduate program. Once enrolled, international affairs graduate students must select an area of concentration. Specific international affairs courses vary by school, but most programs offer the following classes:

• Global cultures
• Global government and legal frameworks
• Conflict and diplomacy
• International economics
• Policy analysis
• Development
• Media and international relations
• International security
• Environmental issues
• International organizations and institutions

Some programs may also have a language requirement as part of the graduate degree in international affairs. Several programs also provide hands-on experience through an internship or practicum. Most schools require completion of either a thesis or a final project in order to graduate.

International Affairs Career Paths

Individuals with a graduate degree in international affairs have a wide variety of job opportunities. Though highly competitive, some international affairs graduates can find work with the federal government. Such positions include jobs with the State Department, American embassies, Department of Defense and jobs in intelligence sectors such as the CIA and NSA. Some can pursue positions in organizations such as the United Nations, Peace Corps and International Trade Commission.

International businesses, international banks, and non-profits also hire graduates of international affairs graduate programs. Those fluent in other languages could find work as interpreters. Others find positions working in immigration, analyzing international affairs and policies, and some enter the field of journalism.

International Affairs Future Job Outlook

As we become a truly global society, job opportunities for international affairs graduates are on the rise. While an average salary is hard to calculate, the State Department indicates a base salary can start at $48,000 for those holding a master’s degree; however, salaries fluctuate based on industry of employment and amount of experience.