Overview

Key facts

The International Affairs program at Boston University includes core coursework that covers the fundamentals of international relations scholarship, quantitative research methods, the workings of the global economy, and the practice of diplomacy and negotiation. In addition to the core classes, students choose a specialization that allows them to develop in-depth knowledge in a chosen issue area, and write a capstone MA paper. They can also demonstrate expertise in a region by earning a graduate certificate through one of the Pardee School’s regional centers and programs.

The curriculum ensures that graduates emerge with a comprehensive perspective on international issues and a clear understanding of the means by which these issues are researched, discussed, and acted upon. There is also a strong emphasis on developing students’ skills in writing policy-relevant documents.

Applicants should have a bachelor’s degree that is relevant to their intended focus in the MAIA program. This may include a major or significant coursework in fields directly related to international relations, such as political science, history, economics, or sociology; regional studies; religion; or communications. This degree is well suited for students with limited career experience in the field, such as recent college graduates. Applicants whose undergraduate coursework has been in fields not closely related to the coverage of the MAIA program will also be considered if they can demonstrate commitment to and knowledge of international affairs through their career or extracurricular experiences.

Language Requirement

All students pursuing an MA in International Affairs are required to demonstrate graduate-level reading proficiency in a foreign language prior to completion of the degree. Language proficiency can be demonstrated either through a language examination or successful completion of a non-credit graduate-level foreign language reading course offered by Boston University. In the case of non-native English speakers who were required to submit a TOEFL score report as part of their application for admission, knowledge of English fulfills this requirement.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Fundamentals of International Relations

Quantitative Analysis for Global Affairs

Economics for Global Policy

Negotiation and Diplomacy

MAIA Paper Workshop

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 24 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-09-03 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-07-15 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2026-08-01 00:00:00 , National
Starting 2027-01-21 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-12-15 00:00:00 , National
- Apply before 2026-12-01 00:00:00 , International

Language

English

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Credits

64 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Boston, United States

Disciplines

International Relations International Development International Business View 235 other Masters in International Relations in United States

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Academic requirements

GRE^®

Required

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

125

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TOEFL^® IBT

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IELTS

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98 accuracy using real exam data
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Other requirements

General requirements

The on-line application form

$95 application fee

Unofficial transcripts for all prior universities you attended for any period of time

Three (3) letters of recommendation

Official GRE general scores

A personal statement

A resume or CV

International Student Data Form

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

66670 USD / year

≈ 66670 USD / year
Out-of-State

66670 USD / year

≈ 66670 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

66670 USD / year

≈ 66670 USD / year

Living costs

Boston

United States

1560 - 3239 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Financing

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Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

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Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for International Affairs.

Available Scholarships

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Overview

Key facts

Language Requirement

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Boston

Financing

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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