B.A. in International Affairs

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Requirements: Prospective undergraduate students are required to have a minimum academic achievement of 80% or above in their previous educational qualifications.

English language proficiency:

• IELTS Requirement: An overall IELTS score of 6.5 is required.
• TOEFL Requirement: A minimum overall score of 80 is often required.
• PTE Requirement: A minimum overall score of 58 is often required.
• DET Requirement: A DET score of 105 is required.
• SAT Requirement: A SAT score of 500 is required.

Students must provide:

• academic marksheets & transcripts
• letters of recommendation
• a personal statement - SOP
• passport
• other supporting documents as required by the university.

It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.

James Madison University (JMU) recognizes the importance of supporting international students in their pursuit of higher education and offers various scholarship opportunities to facilitate their academic journey.

International Undergraduate Merit Scholarships: JMU provides merit-based scholarships for outstanding international undergraduate students. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievements, leadership qualities, and extracurricular involvement. Eligible students are automatically considered during the admission process.

International Diversity Scholarships: To promote cultural diversity on campus, JMU offers International Diversity Scholarships. These scholarships aim to attract students from different backgrounds, fostering a global perspective within the university community. Eligibility criteria include a demonstrated diversity and inclusion.

College-Specific Scholarships: Various colleges within JMU may offer scholarships tailored to specific academic disciplines. International students pursuing degrees in fields such as business, science, engineering, or the arts may have access to college-specific scholarship opportunities.

Global Engagement Scholarships: JMU encourages international students to actively engage with the global community. Global Engagement Scholarships are awarded to students who demonstrate a promoting cross-cultural understanding through activities such as international events, community service, and leadership roles.

Graduates of James Madison University's Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in International Affairs program possess a nuanced understanding of global dynamics, political systems, and cultural complexities. This prepares them for a wide range of impactful career paths where they can contribute to international relations, diplomacy, and global problem-solving.

Diplomat or Foreign Service Officer: One of the primary career paths for B.A. in International Affairs graduates is becoming a Diplomat or Foreign Service Officer. Graduates may work for government agencies, embassies, or international organizations, representing their country's interests, negotiating treaties, and contributing to diplomatic relations.

International Development Specialist: Graduates may pursue careers as International Development Specialists, working with NGOs, international aid agencies, or development organizations. In this role, they focus on implementing projects that address global challenges such as poverty, healthcare, education, and environmental sustainability.

Policy Analyst or Researcher: With a strong foundation in research and analysis, graduates can become Policy Analysts or Researchers. They work for think tanks, research institutions, or policy-making bodies, conducting research on international issues, analyzing policy implications, and contributing to evidence-based decision-making.

Global Communications Specialist: Graduates may choose careers as Global Communications Specialists, working for international media outlets, communication agencies, or public relations firms. They play a crucial role in shaping narratives, fostering cross-cultural understanding, and managing communications on a global scale.

Intelligence Analyst: For those interested in security and geopolitics, graduates can explore roles as Intelligence Analysts. They work for government agencies or private intelligence firms, analyzing global threats, monitoring political developments, and providing strategic intelligence to decision-makers.

Human Rights Advocate: Graduates passionate about social justice may pursue careers as Human Rights Advocates. They work with human rights organizations, NGOs, or advocacy groups, addressing issues such as refugee rights, gender equality, and protection of marginalized populations on a global scale.

International Business Consultant: With a focus on the intersection of business and global affairs, graduates can become International Business Consultants. They assist companies in navigating international markets, understanding cultural nuances, and developing strategies for global expansion.

Conflict Resolution Specialist: Graduates may choose careers as Conflict Resolution Specialists, working in conflict zones or with organizations focused on peacebuilding. They facilitate negotiations, implement peacekeeping initiatives, and contribute to resolving disputes on an international level.

Multilateral Organization Coordinator: Graduates may work for multilateral organizations such as the United Nations or the World Bank as Coordinators. In this role, they contribute to the coordination of international programs, aid efforts, and policy initiatives aimed at addressing global challenges.

Foreign Affairs Journalist: For those with a flair for journalism, graduates can pursue careers as Foreign Affairs Journalists. They report on international events, analyze geopolitical developments, and provide insights into global issues for news organizations or through freelance journalism.