MA in International Relations (Online)

American University's No. 8-ranked School of International Service offers an online Master of International Relations, no GRE required. You will learn to influence decisions across borders and cultures by sharpening your analytical skills in cross-cultural communication and foreign policy. 3.0 undergrad GPA preferred.

The online Master of Arts in International Relations is specifically designed to provide students with a foundation in advanced international relations topics, as well as a specialization in an interdisciplinary professional field. Current concentrations include Global Security & Conflict Resolution and Sustainable International Development. Students and faculty members interact in real-time during weekly live online classes delivered through an innovative video conferencing platform. Students are expected to complete coursework and readings in advance of these small, live discussion sessions. Through the use of innovative technologies and real-world immersive experiences, International Relations Online blends the flexibility of a global online program with the rigor, quality and classroom interaction of an on-campus experience. Students of the program benefit from:

• Live classes, hosted online by renowned American University faculty
• Self-paced, highly produced course content available 24/7
• Social interactions with influential peers and faculty
• Real-world learning through a capstone experience and a D.C. Immersion
• Lifelong connections to the AU and SIS communities

The School of International Service

The School of International Service (SIS) at American University understands that complex global challenges require interdisciplinary, collaborative solutions. The diverse SIS community is united by the idea of service. The expert faculty, supportive staff, and network of accomplished peers prepare students for careers in international affairs, with attention to cross-cultural sensitivity and understanding, professional expertise, and strong analytical skills. SIS is consistently ranked as a top-ten school of international affairs by Foreign Policy magazine.

Concentrations of Study

Global Security & Conflict Resolution prepares students to understand the nuances of peace and security, and lead in roles that will prevent, manage, and resolve diverse conflicts. Students will integrate theory and practice to work in defense planning, transnational conflict resolution, and security from inside the state. Sustainable International Development incorporates policy and practice to address poverty cycles, environmental planning, climate change, and resource flows. The integration of sustainable environmental studies and international development practice uniquely prepares students to understand and solve issues of inequity on a resource-constrained Earth.

Admissions Requirements

The American University School of International Service seeks International Relations Online students who are dedicated to service for the global good. Applicants are required to have or submit:

• A bachelor’s degree from an accredited university
• Official and current GRE test scores (institution code 0812)
• Official transcripts from all academic institutions attended
• Three letters of recommendation
• Current resume of CV
• A detailed Statement of Purpose
• Submit TOEFL, IELTS or PTE exam results (if not a native English speaker)

International candidates are welcomed to apply for International Relations Online and TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE exam requirements may be waived if a student holds a bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited university whose language of instruction is English in a country where English is also the official language.