UMass McCormack Graduate School of Policy Studies

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International Relations

The International Relations track focuses on five broad goals for its graduates:

• a solid understanding of classic international relations theory, in an historical and contemporary context, and the concepts, structures, and institutions, both governmental and non-governmental, that define the global system;

• a firm knowledge of the current international system, and the political, economic and cultural factors that influence policy formulation;

• a critical understanding of international political economy, the effects of globalization, problems and prospects in the developing world, the role of regionalism and of regional integration, the dynamics of international conflict and conflict resolution;

• the capacity to utilize and apply a range of research methodologies to the study of relevant topics in international affairs;

• competence in an individualized area of specialization, either functional (for example: international conflict resolution) or geographic (for example: European Union, Middle East).

In addition to the seminars specifically offered for the International Relations track, students can also enroll in other courses in anthropology, dispute resolution, economics, geography, history, languages, and political science. Through the Library Consortium, students can also have access to a wide range of resources at other universities in the Boston area. Specific opportunities for involvement in development projects overseas may be available through the Center for Democracy and Development at the University's John W McCormack Graduate School of Policy Studies.

The curriculum of the International Relations track includes core seminars, electives, and a master's thesis:

• Core Seminars: Seven courses with a distinct focus, aimed at providing a solid foundation in major aspects of international relations:

  • Theories and Concepts of International Relations

  • Contemporary Issues in World Politics

  • Research Methods and Analysis in International Relations

  • International Political Economy

  • Globalization and International Development

  • Political Economy of Regional Systems

  • Advanced Studies in International Relations

• Elective Courses: For a list of electives, please contact the program office. Electives are available in a variety of fields and are meant to encourage study in an area of special interest. By also focusing the master's thesis in the same area, students have an opportunity to pursue a distinct specialization in depth.

• Master's Thesis: Focused research on a distinct topic through which the student synthesizes work done in the various courses and also acquires expertise in a specific area of study.

Thirty-six graduate credits over a two-year period are required to complete the International Relations curriculum. They include the seven three-credit core seminars noted above; three electives (three-credit courses chosen from the approved list available in the program office); and the master's thesis (six credits).

The thesis, undertaken after completion of course work, should result in a substantial and original paper approximately sixty pages long, indicating mastery of pertinent concepts and critical analysis. The thesis is defended before a faculty committee and provides the base for a comprehensive discussion of the broader context.

There is also a foreign language/international experience requirement to be satisfied: either by demonstrating proficiency in a foreign language or by submitting a record of extensive international experience (work and/or study overseas).