Masters in International Policy

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

University of Georgia

Program Overview

The Master of International Policy (MIP) at the University of Georgia is a professionally oriented graduate program administered by the Department of International Affairs within the School of Public and International Affairs. It prepares students for careers in government, private-sector organizations and NGOs through interdisciplinary training in international policy implementation, global affairs, regional studies and policy analysis.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1: Students develop foundational knowledge of comparative politics, international relations and global policy. They explore geographical areas such as Europe, Africa, Asia and Latin America, alongside policy subjects including foreign policy, globalization and democratization.

Year 2: Students deepen their expertise in political and economic development, security policy and international affairs through advanced coursework. They focus on applying policy knowledge to international challenges and developing practical skills for public, private and nonprofit careers.

Focus Areas

International relations, foreign policy, globalization, democratization, political development, economic development, security policy, European studies, African studies, Asian studies, Latin American studies.

Learning Outcomes

Analyze international political systems, evaluate foreign policies, understand globalization, assess security challenges, examine democratic institutions, understand political and economic development, apply comparative political analysis, evaluate international policy implementation, develop policy recommendations.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of the National Association of Schools of Public Affairs and Administration (NASPAA), ensuring a high standard of education and relevance to the field.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

The program benefits from the faculty expertise of UGA's School of Public and International Affairs, including internationally recognized scholars and practitioners. A specific program-level employment rate, salary statistic or employability ranking is not published.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of Georgia, the Master’s in International Policy program is designed to provide students with hands-on experiences that translate theoretical knowledge into practical skills. This program emphasizes experiential learning through various opportunities that prepare you for a successful career in international relations, policy analysis, and global governance. Students benefit from state-of-the-art facilities, access to cutting-edge technology, and a collaborative learning environment that fosters teamwork and innovation.

Here are some key aspects of experiential learning in the program:

- Internships: Students have the opportunity to engage in internships with organizations such as the U.S. Department of State, non-profits, and international NGOs, allowing for real-world application of policy concepts.

- Capstone Projects: The program includes a capstone project where students work in teams to tackle real-world policy issues, providing a platform for collaborative problem-solving and critical thinking.

- Field Trips: Students participate in field trips to key institutions, such as the United Nations and various governmental agencies, offering firsthand insights into the workings of international policy.

- Research Facilities: Access to the Richard B. Russell Library for Political Research and Studies, which houses extensive collections on political history and policy, supports students in their research endeavors.

- Digital Tools: The program incorporates software tools such as GIS (Geographic Information Systems) for spatial analysis and data visualization, enhancing students' analytical capabilities.

- Workshops and Seminars: Regular workshops and guest lectures from industry experts provide students with current insights and networking opportunities in the field of international policy.

- Collaboration with Institutes: The program collaborates with the School of Public and International Affairs (SPIA) and the Center for International Trade and Security, providing additional resources and expertise.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The Master’s in International Policy at the University of Georgia equips graduates with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in a variety of impactful roles in the global arena. Alumni often find themselves in positions such as Policy Analyst, International Relations Specialist, and Development Consultant, where they can influence policy decisions and contribute to international development efforts. Here’s what you can expect in terms of progression and future opportunities:

- University Services: The Career Center offers personalized career counseling, resume workshops, and networking events specifically tailored for international policy students. Additionally, the Global Education Center provides resources for internships and study abroad opportunities that enhance your global perspective.

- Employment Stats and Salary Figures: According to recent data, over 85% of graduates from the International Policy program secure employment within six months of graduation, with starting salaries averaging around $60,000 annually, depending on the role and location.

- University–Industry Partnerships: The University of Georgia has established partnerships with organizations such as the United Nations Association and various NGOs, providing students with unique internship and job placement opportunities that can significantly enhance their career prospects.

- Long-term Accreditation Value: The program is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Public Affairs and Administration (NASPAA), ensuring that your degree holds value and recognition in the field of public policy and international relations.

- Graduation Outcomes: Graduates have gone on to work with government agencies, international organizations, and think tanks, making significant contributions to policy development and implementation on a global scale.

Further Academic Progression: After completing your Master’s in International Policy, you may choose to pursue a Ph.D. in Public Policy or International Relations, which can open doors to academic positions or advanced research roles. Alternatively, you could consider specialized certifications in areas such as conflict resolution or global health policy, further enhancing your expertise and career opportunities.