International Affairs

The Bachelor of Arts in International Affairs at Boston University provides students with a comprehensive and interdisciplinary education that prepares them for careers in global policy, diplomacy, international development, and related fields. This program is designed to equip students with a deep understanding of the political, economic, cultural, and social forces shaping the international system today. Students will engage with foundational theories of international relations, examine global issues such as conflict resolution, human rights, environmental sustainability, and international trade, and develop critical skills in analysis, communication, and policymaking.

The curriculum combines core courses in political science, economics, history, and cultural studies with specialized electives that focus on regional studies, international organizations, security studies, and global governance. Students will have the opportunity to participate in innovative experiential learning, including internships, research projects, and study abroad programs, to gain practical experience and strengthen their global competency. The program emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, encouraging students to analyze issues from multiple perspectives and to think critically about complex international challenges.

Faculty members are distinguished experts in their fields, bringing extensive research experience and real-world insights into the classroom. Students are also encouraged to develop language skills and cultural literacy to enhance their effectiveness in international settings. Through seminars, workshops, and guest speakers, the program fosters an active learning environment that prepares graduates for diverse careers in government agencies, international organizations, non-governmental organizations, journalism, and the private sector.

Graduates of the International Affairs program at Boston University are well-equipped to understand and influence global affairs, pursue advanced graduate studies, or enter the workforce with a solid foundation in international issues and the skills necessary to succeed in a rapidly interconnected world. The program is committed to fostering a global mindset, ethical responsibility, and leadership qualities among its students, ensuring they are prepared to contribute thoughtfully and effectively to international affairs on a local, national, and global scale.

Course Requirements

The MA in International Affairs requires a total of 16 courses (64 credits). In addition to the course requirements listed below, remaining credits should be fulfilled through approved elective courses.

Core Course Requirements (20 credits)

• GRS IR 701 Fundamentals of International Relations
• GRS IR 702 Research Methods for International Relations Practitioners
• GRS IR 703 International Security
• GRS IR 704 Global Economic and Development Policy
• GRS IR 799 Master’s Paper Workshop (year-long seminar, 2 credits each term)

Track Requirements (28 credits)

Students choose a primary track (four courses, 16 credits) and a secondary track (three courses, 12 credits) from the list below. Courses for the two tracks must be non-overlapping. At least one of the tracks must be a functional track. Full track course listings can be found online.

• Theory and Policy (functional track)
• Political Economy (functional track)
• Security Studies (functional track)
• Asia (regional track)
• Europe (regional track)
• Latin America (regional track)
• Middle East & Africa (regional track)
• Muslim World (regional track)

Language Requirement

All students pursuing an MA in International Affairs are required to demonstrate graduate-level reading proficiency in a foreign language prior to completion of the degree. Language proficiency can be demonstrated either through a language examination or successful completion of a non-credit graduate-level foreign language reading course offered by Boston University. In the case of non-native English speakers who were required to submit a TOEFL score report as part of their application for admission, knowledge of English fulfills this requirement.

Master’s Paper

Students write a Master’s Paper (commonly referred to as an MA Paper) as the capstone component of their degree. The paper may take one of two forms: either a traditional research paper or a policy paper. Students are given broad latitude in selecting topics and approaches, in consultation with their advisors.

All MA Papers must be defended orally in front of a panel of three professors, chosen by the Frederick S. Pardee School of Global Studies (one of the three professors will be the student’s advisor). The purpose of the oral examination is to test the student’s knowledge in the area of research related to the MA Paper as well as the student’s ability to discuss that knowledge at length in a clear and compelling manner.

Requirements

• The online application form
• $95 application fee
• Transcripts for all prior university studies (unofficial copies, uploaded to the application)
• Three (3) letters of recommendation
• Official GRE general scores
• A personal statement
• A resume or CV
• Official TOEFL scores sent by ETS to institution code 3087
• A completed, signed International Student Data Form or International Applicant Coversheet
• Copy of the personal information page of your current passport
• Copies of all current visas, if applicable
• Financial support documentation (Sponsorship Certification and Bank Statement)

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

Scholarships

• Global Education
• Merit-Based Aid
• University-Wide Merit Aid