International Affairs

The Bachelor of Science in International Affairs at Georgia Institute of Technology is a comprehensive and rigorous program designed to prepare students for leadership roles in the complex and interconnected global environment. This interdisciplinary degree combines the study of political science, economics, history, and international relations, providing students with a deep understanding of international systems, policies, and cultural dynamics. Through a diverse curriculum, students explore topics such as global security, international trade, diplomacy, development, human rights, and environmental sustainability, equiping them with the analytical and practical skills necessary for effective problem-solving and decision-making in international contexts. The program emphasizes experiential learning, offering internships, research projects, and study abroad opportunities that enable students to gain real-world experience and develop a global perspective. Faculty members are experts in their fields, often involved in groundbreaking research that informs their teaching. Georgia Tech’s location in Atlanta, a major hub for international business and diplomatic activity, provides students with unique networking opportunities and exposure to global organizations. The program aims to cultivate culturally competent and ethically responsible professionals who can effectively address international challenges in government, non-profit, advocacy, or private sector organizations. Graduates of this program are well-equipped to pursue careers in international policy analysis, diplomatic service, global development, or further academic study. The Bachelor of Science in International Affairs at Georgia Tech is committed to fostering innovative thinking, analytical rigor, and a deep commitment to understanding the complexities of the international community, preparing students to become leaders in shaping a more just and sustainable world.

The program includes core courses in the following:

• International relations theory
• Comparative politics
• International political economy
• International security
• Empirical research methods

Students must also choose two of four elective tracks to in order to focus their studies. The four track options are:

• Comparative and Regional Studies
• Globalization and Development
• International Affairs and Security
• Science and Technology

Students also have the opportunity to design the program to meet their individual interests through elective offerings in the School and interdisciplinary work in the other schools in the Ivan Allen College as well as the Colleges of Sciences, Management, Architecture and Engineering. Overseas programs and internships are encouraged and facilitated by the School.

Three (3) credit hours of technology literacy is required and is satisfied by successfully completing (B or higher) at least one semester of classes with content including at least one of the following while in the Master's program:

• programming computers;
• database design and operation;
• development and operation;
• data analysis (if part of statistics courses, at least two quarters or two semesters);
• simulation model design and use;
• development and use of geographic information or cartography systems; or
• operation of large computer systems/ computer networks.

In addition to 42 semester credit hours of coursework, students must demonstrate foreign language familiarity and economics. These abilities are essential tools for professional or scholarly work in international affairs. Students must satisfy these requirements before graduating from the program, either through previous undergraduate work or during the Master's program.

Foreign language familiarity is defined as a minimum of two years of college-level work in a single language. This requirement can be fulfilled while in residence or can be demonstrated through an examination taken in the School of Modern Languages.

Economics literacy is satisfied by successful completion of a course or courses in microeconomic and macroeconomic principles and a course in international economics undertaken while at Georgia Tech, or by successful completion of equivalent courses at another institution, either during undergraduate work or while in the Master's program.

The School's master's degree requirements supplement the Institute's master's degree requirements listed in the General Catalog. Students must achieve a grade-point average of at least 3.0 to graduate, and no course below grade C will count toward graduation.

Requirements

1. Evidence of award of a bachelor's degree, its equivalent, or higher degree (prior to matriculation) from a regionally accredited institution; demonstrated academic excellence; and evidence of experience with the selected field of graduate study.
2. For international applicants, satisfactory scores on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). 600 (paper based), or 100 (Internet based).
3. Official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended in your native language. Note that transcripts printed from your student account and degree audits or self-translated transcripts and transcripts from evaluation services (e.g., World Education Services or Josef Silny) aren't acceptable.
4. English translations of any transcripts submitted for review. If the institution won't provide a translated copy, translations done by a public translator (through your embassy or an apostille) will be accepted.
5. Native language degree documents, if awarded degree isn't noted on transcript(s).
6. English translations of degree documents submitted. If the institution won't provide a translated copy, translations done by a public translator (through your embassy or an apostille) will be accepted.
7. Official GRE/GMAT/TOEFL scores sent directly from ETS.

Recommended 

• Unofficial copy of GRE/GMAT/TOEFL score sheets.
• Resume or curriculum vitae.

Scholarships

• Graduate Teaching Assistantships
• President’s Fellowships ($5,500 per year)
• Institute Fellowships 

The Bachelor of Science in International Affairs at Georgia Institute of Technology is designed to prepare students for careers in international relations, global policy, diplomacy, and international development. This program offers a comprehensive curriculum that combines political science, economics, history, and regional studies to provide students with a thorough understanding of global issues and international systems. Students will engage with topics such as international security, trade policy, human rights, environmental challenges, and international organizations, gaining both theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary for effective international engagement.

The program emphasizes experiential learning through internships, study abroad opportunities, and collaborative projects with government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and international bodies. Students are encouraged to develop critical thinking, cross-cultural communication, and analysis skills vital for navigating complex international environments. The curriculum is structured to include core courses in international relations theory, comparative politics, and global economics, along with specialized electives in regional studies, international law, and public policy.

Georgia Tech’s location in Atlanta presents students with unique opportunities for engagement with international organizations such as the United Nations and various diplomatic missions. The program also fosters a strong interdisciplinary approach by integrating courses from the College of Computing, the College of Engineering, and the School of Public Policy, providing a well-rounded education that aligns with evolving global challenges.

Graduates of the International Affairs program are prepared to pursue careers in diplomacy, government service, international consulting, non-profit organizations, and global business. Many alumni continue their education at graduate schools in international affairs, law, or public policy to further specialize in their areas of interest. Overall, Georgia Tech’s International Affairs program aims to develop global citizens who are capable of addressing pressing international issues with innovative solutions and a deep understanding of world affairs.