Degree Requirements
Master of Arts in Global Policy
The MA Global Policy degree is a two-year Master’s program consisting of 33 credits that is open to students with a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent. An undergraduate international policy degree is not essential for admission. SPIA is much more concerned with an applicant’s capacity for graduate study, demonstrated by the quality of previous academic work and professional experience, and their commitment to an international career. However, applicants must exhibit research ability, have a strong foundation in economics, and demonstrate competence in a second language. Students may choose a concentration in either Environmental Policy, Security and Foreign Policy, Trade and Commerce, or Climate Policy.
Requirements
Prospective students are expected to have completed the following requirements before admission to the graduate program:
The above courses must be completed with a grade of B or better. Applicants without the required background may be accepted provisionally while meeting the prerequisites. The admissions committee will consider waiving prerequisites for applicants with work experience that provides the equivalent knowledge, skills, and abilities to succeed in the program.
Core Curriculum
Core seminars define the body of knowledge considered fundamental to the student’s ability to assume a role in global public policy development and analysis. Some seminars will be team-taught by faculty members with varying academic and professional experiences to familiarize students with faculty and their specializations. All students are required to take the five core courses below and participate in an internship.
SPI 501 Research Methods and Design (3 credits)
How to study international policy issues; approaches; social science theory and research methods; policy analysis.
SPI 502 International Political Economy (3 credits)How the world economy works; its relation to economic growth, the distribution of wealth, sustainable development, culture, and political power.
SPI 503 International Relations (3 credits)
The workings of the international system; evolution of international relations and the present era of transition in the international system.
SPI 510 Public Service Seminar (1 credit)
Introduce students to the theory and practice of public service through conversations with practitioners. To be completed before the required internship.
SPI 595 Internship (2-6 credits depending upon the nature, duration, and value of the experience) All students will complete a professional internship that supplements their academic study at an appropriate institution or business to gain relevant, marketable experience. Internships allow students to explore their options while developing their networks, learning about specific fields, becoming familiar with various organizational management and leadership styles, and better understanding the experiences and different cultural contexts of other people in a globalized world. Students are strongly encouraged to perform their internships outside of their home country, especially if they intend to strengthen their foreign language proficiency to gain a vital edge for their future international careers.
