The graduate program in International Affairs is a part of The New
School's commitment to bringing tools of social research and critical
theory to bear on world issues. Established in September 2001, the
International Affairs curriculum is aimed at students who may not be
satisfied with the narrow technocratic orientation of many programs in
international affairs and global studies. Today, the graduate program
in International Affairs has grown to 400 students from 62
countries who are pursuing MA and MS degrees.
It offers a sophisticated, critical, and interdisciplinary approach
to international questions that serves both students with professional
goals and students who are considering academic careers.
Our Students Are Our Strongest Asset
Our MA and MS students span the spectrum from former U.N. staff to
journalists and filmmakers, from former Peace Corps volunteers and NGO
workers to lawyers and stockbrokers. Some seek a brand-new career;
others are looking for new ways to address the limitations of existing
approaches; all desire to expand and build upon their unique
experiences in the service of a better world.
They are drawn to our program because of its multidisciplinary
character. Our challenge is to train students for whom theory and
practice are truly complementary, so that understanding itself becomes
a means of change, and analysis becomes action. By understanding
differently, new practitioners and scholars can help to change the
institutions and the world in which these institutions operate.
Our courses are supplemented by internships, fieldwork, weekly
midday seminars on international affairs, conferences, and other
special workshops and talks. We offer summer international field
experiences in such locations as Guatemala, Brazil, Hong Kong, Kosovo, Uganda, Argentina, Nepal, and Ethiopia.
We invite you to learn more about us!