Overview

The International Studies programme at Simon Fraser University provides a rigorous interdisciplinary framework designed to address the most pressing global challenges of the modern era. Students engage with complex questions regarding national security, state-building, and the diverse strategies employed by nations to foster economic development. This M.A. degree combines theoretical academic study with practical forms of engagement to prepare graduates for influential roles in the international arena.

Why International Studies at Simon Fraser University?

Choosing this programme means joining a close-knit academic community characterised by small learning cohorts, typically limited to 15 students in core courses. This environment ensures personalised attention from world-class experts and leading scholars who possess deep regional expertise in areas such as Africa, the Middle East, Latin America, and Central Asia. The university also offers generous merit-based entrance scholarships, with values reaching up to $25,000, to support high-achieving students.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: CAD 2150 per semester
National fee: CAD 2150 per semester

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

Global Inequality
National and Global Security
State Building
International Development Strategies
Research and Policy Engagement
Regional Studies

Careers with International Studies

Graduates are equipped with the analytical tools and practical training necessary for diverse professional pathways. The programme offers dedicated career guidance and the opportunity to pursue co-op work placements, bridging the gap between academic theory and professional practice. Alumni often find success in sectors related to international policy, research, and global governance, benefiting from the programme's strong emphasis on practical engagement and regional specialisation.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Problems of International Policy and Practice

Institutions, Policies and Development

Analytic Approaches for International Studies

State Failure and Reconstruction: Comparative Perspectives

Elective course if pursuing Extended Essays; if pursuing Thesis

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-04 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-01-13 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

130

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IELTS

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Credits

30 alternative credits

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Burnaby, Canada

Disciplines

International Relations View 23 other Masters in International Relations in Canada

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Academic requirements

GPA

3.4

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

130

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

a bachelor’s degree from SFU or its equivalent from a recognized institution

a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 on a 4.33 scale, or 3.33 on a 4.33 scale (B+) based on the last 60 credits of undergraduate courses. All graduate work is also considered.

submitted evidence, usually references from qualified referees, of the applicant’s ability to undertake advanced studies in the area of interest.

proof of English Language proficiency

In exceptional circumstances, a student may be admitted with lower formal qualifications when there is significant experience relevant to the proposed area of scholarship.

Student Insurance via Studyportals Partner

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Remember, countries and universities may have specific insurance requirements. To learn more about how student insurance work at Simon Fraser University and/or in Canada, please visit Student Insurance Portal.

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

4300 CAD / year

≈ 4300 CAD / year
Domestic Applies to you

Applies to you

Citizens or residents

4300 CAD / year

≈ 4300 CAD / year

Living costs

Burnaby

Canada

1600 - 2700 CAD / month

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

Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

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

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

International Studies

About

On this page

About

Overview

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

Student Insurance via Studyportals Partner

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic Applies to you

Living costs

Burnaby

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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