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The CMHC program at Missouri State University leads to a Master of Science (M.S.) degre...
Masters of International Affairs
Springfield, Missouri
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The Master of International Affairs program at Missouri State University is a rigorous yet adaptable graduate degree, typically completed within two years for full-time students. It welcomes applicants from diverse undergraduate backgrounds, with no specific prerequisite courses. The program emphasizes a small class size, capped at 15 students, fostering intensive discussions and personalized attention from faculty. Beyond the traditional master's track, Missouri State also offers an accelerated MIA option for qualified undergraduates, allowing them to earn both their bachelor's and master's degrees in a streamlined timeframe. Additionally, students have the opportunity to earn a graduate certificate in conjunction with their MIA, with options such as Defense and Strategic Studies or International Business, further enhancing their specialized expertise and marketability.
Curriculum: The MIA curriculum is structured around a robust core of six required courses (18 credit hours) that provide a foundational understanding of international affairs. These core courses include "Quantitative Methods of Political Science and Public Policy," "Seminar in Comparative Politics," "International Political Economy," "International Security," "International Relations in Theory and Practice," and "Seminar in International Organizations." Beyond the core, students complete 12-15 elective credit hours, allowing for specialization in areas of individual interest. These electives can be chosen from within the Political Science and Philosophy department or, with program director approval, from related disciplines such as Criminology, Economics, Geography, History, and Management. A foreign language requirement, equivalent to two semesters of study, must also be fulfilled, though these credits do not count toward the 36-hour degree total. The program culminates in either a comprehensive examination (for students with a GPA below 3.70) or an extensive research project, which can be a 3-hour independent study or a master's thesis (for students with a GPA of 3.70 or above).
Research Focus: The Master of International Affairs program places a strong emphasis on developing advanced research capabilities. Through required coursework in quantitative methods and the culminating research project options (independent study or thesis), students are trained to conduct rigorous analysis of complex global issues. Faculty members within the Political Science and Philosophy department possess diverse research expertise, spanning topics such as ethnic conflict, social protest, terrorism, non-state actors, land rights, foreign policy, Latin American politics, Middle East and Mediterranean politics (with a focus on Turkey, Iraq, and the Kurds), and international development. This breadth of faculty expertise provides students with numerous opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research across a wide range of international affairs subfields, preparing them for analytical roles in various professional and academic settings.
Industry Engagement: While the MIA program at Missouri State University is academically rigorous, it is also designed with a strong eye toward practical application and career readiness. The program equips graduates with highly sought-after analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills that are crucial in diverse international careers. While specific formal industry engagement like mandatory internships may not be explicitly outlined as a core program component, the emphasis on developing policy analysis, administration, and management skills directly translates to professional roles. Missouri State University's broader initiatives, such as the International Leadership and Training Center (ILTC), aim to build relationships with U.S. businesses and offer customized programs that can provide exposure to best practices in various industries and foster networking opportunities. The program's alumni network also spans various government agencies, private sector businesses, and non-profit organizations globally, offering valuable connections for current students.
Global Perspective: The Master of International Affairs program at Missouri State University is inherently global in its perspective, striving to educate "global citizen scholars." The curriculum deeply explores theories of international relations, comparative politics, international political economy, and international security, covering diverse regions and cross-cutting global issues. Faculty members bring extensive field research experience from various parts of the world, including sub-Saharan Africa, East Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East, enriching classroom discussions with real-world insights. Furthermore, the university houses a unique United Nations depository, providing students with access to a wealth of international materials. The program encourages study abroad opportunities as electives, further immersing students in different cultural and political contexts. This holistic approach ensures that graduates are not only knowledgeable about global affairs but also possess the cultural competence and ethical leadership skills necessary to address international challenges effectively.
Location
Springfield, Missouri
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 15914
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fee: $72
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their bachelor's degree.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 or 7.0 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 79 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 53 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 110.
Missouri State University offers several scholarship opportunities designed specifically to support international students in pursuing their higher education goals. These scholarships aim to recognize academic excellence, leadership qualities, and contributions to campus life, helping reduce the financial burden for international learners.
International Excellence Scholarship: This merit-based scholarship awards to outstanding first-time international freshmen. The scholarship is renewable for up to three additional years. Eligibility is based on strong academic records, and recipients must maintain satisfactory academic progress to continue receiving the award.
International Leadership Scholarship: Targeting international freshmen who demonstrate exceptional leadership and academic achievement. It is renewable for up to four years. Applicants are required to submit an essay highlighting their leadership experiences and vision. The scholarship is competitive, with only about 10 awards granted each year.
Additional Scholarships and Grants: Besides the primary scholarships, Missouri State University provides various other financial awards through departmental scholarships, honors programs, and special initiatives. Some scholarships may require separate applications or nominations based on the student's major or area of study.
A Master of International Affairs (MIA) from Missouri State University opens up a broad spectrum of career opportunities across governmental, non-profit, and private sectors due to its emphasis on critical thinking, policy analysis, cross-cultural understanding, and quantitative skills. Graduates are equipped to address complex global challenges and contribute meaningfully in diverse international environments.
Foreign Service Officer/Diplomat: This highly sought-after career involves representing national interests abroad, engaging in diplomacy, negotiating treaties, and providing consular services. MIA graduates are well-prepared for the rigorous Foreign Service Officer exam and subsequent roles in embassies and consulates worldwide, working to foster international relations and protect national citizens and interests.
Intelligence Analyst: Graduates can work for various government intelligence agencies (e.g., CIA, NSA, FBI) or private intelligence firms. They collect, analyze, and interpret information to provide crucial insights into international security threats, political developments, and economic trends, informing national security and foreign policy decisions.
International Development Specialist/Aid Worker: These professionals work with international organizations, NGOs, or government agencies (e.g., USAID) to design, implement, and manage programs aimed at improving quality of life in developing countries. This can involve working on issues such as poverty reduction, public health, education, sustainable development, and humanitarian relief.
Policy Analyst (International/Foreign Affairs): Employed by government bodies, think tanks, or research institutions, policy analysts research and evaluate international policies, collect and interpret data, and make recommendations on global issues. They often specialize in areas like trade, security, human rights, or environmental policy, producing reports and briefings for decision-makers.
International Business Consultant: With their understanding of global markets, political economies, and cross-cultural communication, MIA graduates can advise multinational corporations on international expansion strategies, market entry, risk assessment, and navigating international regulations. This role often involves extensive travel and problem-solving for businesses operating globally.
International Program Manager (NGOs/Non-Profits): Graduates can lead and manage international programs for non-governmental organizations focusing on human rights, environmental advocacy, conflict resolution, or humanitarian aid. Responsibilities often include program development, fundraising, budgeting, and stakeholder coordination across different countries.
Government Affairs Manager/Lobbyist (International Focus): These roles involve advocating for specific policies or organizational interests to influence decision-makers in governments or international institutions. MIA graduates can leverage their understanding of political systems and persuasive communication skills to shape international legislation and regulations on behalf of corporations, non-profits, or advocacy groups.
International Relations Specialist (Private Sector): Many large corporations with global operations hire international relations specialists to manage their relationships with foreign governments, partners, and stakeholders. These professionals ensure compliance with international laws, navigate political risks, and contribute to global business strategy.
International Journalist/Correspondent: For those with strong writing and communication skills, an MIA provides the depth of knowledge necessary to report on complex international events, political developments, and global trends for news agencies, media organizations, or online platforms.
Research Associate/Academic: Graduates interested in further academic pursuits or research can work as research associates at universities, think tanks, or specialized research institutes. An MIA also provides a solid foundation for pursuing doctoral studies in political science, international relations, or related fields, with the ultimate goal of becoming a university professor or independent scholar.
