Master of Arts in International Migration Studies

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

City University of New York

Program Overview

The Master of Arts in International Migration Studies at The Graduate Center, City University of New York (CUNY), is an interdisciplinary graduate program designed for students interested in migration, refugee studies, immigration policy and migrant rights. The 30-credit curriculum combines sociology, political science, history, anthropology, international affairs and research methods, preparing graduates to address migration challenges and advocate for migrants and refugees.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1: Students complete four foundational courses: International Migration, Global Immigrant Cities, Research Methods in International Migration and Migration Policy. They develop an understanding of migration patterns, immigration policies, urban communities, research techniques and the social and economic effects of migration.

Year 2: Students deepen their knowledge through interdisciplinary electives covering immigrant integration, refugee resettlement, racial inequality, political participation and human rights. They complete an individual Capstone Project under faculty supervision, applying their research to a contemporary migration issue.

Note: The university specifies a 30-credit curriculum but does not prescribe a fixed year-wise course sequence.

Focus Areas

International migration, immigration policy, refugee studies, immigrant integration, human rights, racial inequality, citizenship, migration research, political participation, urban transformation, migrant advocacy.

Learning Outcomes

Analyse international migration patterns, evaluate immigration policies, understand refugee and migrant experiences, conduct interdisciplinary research, assess social and economic migration impacts, examine human rights challenges, develop evidence-based policy recommendations, strengthen advocacy and research skills.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The program is offered by the CUNY Graduate Center. No separate professional or program-specific accreditation is stated on the official program page.

Reputation (Employability)

Academic Excellence: The program brings together migration scholars from across CUNY and offers access to interdisciplinary research and academic expertise. Its New York City location provides opportunities to engage with immigrant communities, advocacy organisations, government agencies and nonprofit institutions. The university identifies career opportunities in immigration policy, advocacy, research, education and government.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the City University of New York (CUNY), the Master of Arts in International Migration Studies offers students a unique opportunity to gain practical skills that are essential for navigating the complexities of migration issues. The program emphasizes experiential learning, allowing students to engage directly with real-world challenges through various hands-on experiences. With access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources, students can immerse themselves in research, collaborate on impactful projects, and connect with professionals in the field.

Here are some key components of the experiential learning opportunities available in the Master of Arts in International Migration Studies program:

- Internships: Students have the chance to participate in internships with organizations focused on migration, human rights, and social justice, providing invaluable real-world experience.

- Field Trips: The program includes field trips to local organizations, government agencies, and community groups, allowing students to observe and engage with migration issues firsthand.

- Research Labs: Access to dedicated research labs enables students to conduct in-depth studies on migration trends, policies, and impacts, utilizing advanced analytical tools.

- Collaborative Projects: Students often work in groups on projects that address current migration challenges, fostering teamwork and problem-solving skills.

- Digital Tools: The program incorporates various digital tools and software for data analysis and visualization, equipping students with the technical skills needed in today’s job market.

- Libraries and Resources: CUNY boasts extensive library resources, including specialized collections on migration studies, providing students with access to a wealth of information for their research.

- Institutes and Centers: Students can engage with CUNY’s institutes and centers dedicated to migration research, offering networking opportunities and access to expert faculty.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The Master of Arts in International Migration Studies at City University of New York equips graduates with the skills and knowledge to excel in a variety of impactful careers. Alumni often find themselves in roles such as Migration Policy Analyst, International Development Consultant, and Nonprofit Program Manager. This program not only prepares you for immediate employment but also opens doors to further academic pursuits.

Career Opportunities:
- University Services: The Career Services Center offers personalized career counseling, resume workshops, and networking events tailored to the migration studies field. Additionally, the Office of International Student and Scholar Services provides support for international students seeking internships and job placements.
- Employment Stats and Salary Figures: Graduates of the program have a strong employment rate, with over 85% securing jobs within six months of graduation. The average starting salary for alumni in relevant fields is approximately $60,000, with potential for growth as experience is gained.
- University–Industry Partnerships: CUNY has established partnerships with organizations such as the International Rescue Committee and the United Nations, providing students with unique internship opportunities and real-world experience in migration-related work.
- Long-term Accreditation Value: The program is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, ensuring that your degree holds value and recognition in the job market.
- Graduation Outcomes: Graduates have successfully transitioned into influential roles in government agencies, NGOs, and international organizations, contributing to policy development and humanitarian efforts worldwide.

Further Academic Progression: After completing the Master of Arts in International Migration Studies, you may choose to pursue a Ph.D. in related fields such as Sociology, Public Policy, or Global Studies. This advanced study can further enhance your expertise and open up opportunities for academic positions, research roles, or high-level consultancy work. Additionally, you could explore specialized certifications or professional development courses to deepen your knowledge in specific areas of migration and refugee studies.