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College of Professional Studies

Global Studies and International Relations

Master's

Prepare for internationally focused positions in the U.S. or abroad with our practical, interdisciplinary, and interactive Master of Science in Global Studies and International Relations.

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Program Format
On ground
Time Commitment
Part time, Full time
Duration
12 - 18 Months
Entry Term(s)
Fall, Spring, Summer, Winter
Meets F1 visa requirements
Yes

Program overview

Open a world of opportunities

In today’s increasingly interconnected world, global corporations, nonprofits, and governments have an increasing need for leaders with deep analytical, research, and cross-cultural skills. Our Master of Science in Global Studies and International Relations prepares you for internationally focused positions in the U.S. and abroad to take on the complex challenges formed by modern globalization.

Our unique interdisciplinary program concentrates on both global studies and international relations, allowing students to gain one comprehensive degree. Classes focus on real-world fieldwork, such as analyzing the investment portfolios of developing nations, staging mock debates, crisis management, and the art of speechwriting for top embassy officials.

  • Unique interdisciplinary degree that applies theory to practice: Gain expertise in global studies and international relations in one comprehensive degree. The curriculum is designed to give you an understanding of both subjects, with class assignment examples taken from the workplace, such as policy analysis and speechwriting.
  • Accomplished faculty with decades of experience: Take courses taught by distinguished policymakers, former ambassadors, diplomats, foreign service advisors, and more.
  • Opportunity to participate in a virtual International Field Study Experience: Serve as an international consultant for global organizations on a current challenge they’re facing. Present your findings in a virtual working session.
  • Tailor your degree to your career goals: Focus on the industry or skill set that most interests you with one of four concentrations: diplomacy, conflict resolution, international economics and consulting, or global health and development. You’ll also choose one of the globe’s six major regions to focus your area of study.
  • Join an international network: Take advantage of a wide international network made up of classmates, faculty, and dedicated alumni.
  • Other experiential learning opportunities: You’ll have the option to participate in co-ops, capstone projects, and internships at the United Nations, U.S. Department of State, Pathfinder International, Human Rights Watch, Charity Water, Refuge Point, and many more.
  • Participate in the Diplomacy Lab: Explore real-world challenges while contributing to the policymaking process in conjunction with the U.S. State Department.

Graduates have gone on to work in diverse areas, such as international business, journalism, defense, international security, nongovernmental organizations or the UN, various embassies and consulates, and nonprofits around the world. Our international faculty and alumni are established in their careers and can serve as advocates during your job search. Northeastern’s renowned co-op and internship program allows you to gain hands-on work experience.

With students coming from more than 24 countries and over 34 states, and faculty with decades of experience working as ambassadors, foreign service officers, diplomats, and more, there are rich opportunities for discussion and debates on international perspectives.

Admissions

Apply to the program

A graduate degree or certificate from Northeastern can accelerate your career through rigorous academic coursework and real-world professional experience in your area of interest. Apply to take your career to the next level.

Our admissions process operates on a rolling basis; however, we do recommend the application guidelines below to ensure you can begin during your desired start term:

Domestic Application Guidelines

International Application Guidelines*

*International deadlines are only applicable if the program is F1 compliant.


  • Online application

  • Professional resumé

  • Unofficial undergraduate transcripts; official transcripts required at the time of admission

    • The Foreign Credential Evaluation (FCE) is a required assessment of all transcripts and documents from non-U.S. accredited post-secondary education institutions. (Review the FCE requirements by country.)

  • English language proficiency proof. Students for whom English is not their primary language must submit one of the following:

    • Official associate or bachelor's degree transcript from an accredited college or university in the U.S., stating degree conferral and date

    • TOEFL, IELTS, PTE, Duolingo, or NU Global Exam scores

  • Other materials may be required

Program objectives

Prepare for success

Prepare for leadership roles in international organizations and areas, including consulting, nonprofit management, business and industry, education, foreign service, or banking.

Gain specialized knowledge

Incorporate foundational global and intercultural knowledge, theories, research methods, and approaches to investigate global issues from government, private, and nonprofit viewpoints.

Broad and integrative knowledge

Frame and evaluate global challenges in international political, economic, security, or diplomatic areas in the selected region or concentration, drawing on diverse fields of study.

Applied and collaborative learning

Apply the advanced knowledge gained to a practical challenge, articulate in writing the insights gained, and assess approaches, scholarly debates, or standards for professional performance.

Civic and global learning

Assess and develop a position on a contemporary social issue from a sociohistorical perspective and from multiple viewpoints of the stakeholders.

Market outlook
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Occupations

Cost of attendance

Tuition and financial aid

  • $43,470
    Tuition in USD

Estimated Total Tuition

This is an estimate based on the tuition rates for Academic Year 2025-2026 and does not include any fees or other expenses. Some courses and labs have tuition rates that may increase or decrease total tuition. Tuition and fees are subject to revision by the president and Board of Trustees at any time. Select programs at select campuses offer additional scholarships of up to 25% off the listed price for domestic students studying on campus. For more detailed information, please visit Student Financial Services.

For students interested in pursuing financial assistance or educational loans, additional educational costs, known as Cost of Attendance (COA) components, can be included in the calculation of aid and loan eligibility. Components may include food, housing, books, course materials, supplies, equipment, transportation, personal expenses, and the cost of obtaining a first professional licensure. You can find comprehensive details on the Student Financial Services website. Please keep in mind that COA can vary significantly depending on academic program, enrollment intensity, and individual circumstances.

There are many ways to pay for your education, including scholarships, financial aid, and more. Connect with a financial counselor to learn about your options and make your dream a reality.

Visit tuition & financial aid
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Want more information?

We’re here to answer your questions about this program, the application process, and more. Complete the form below to receive additional program details and speak with a member of our enrollment team. 

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